An assessment of innovation practices at Kibalime batteries limited

Abstract

Innovations have increased in past decade in family-owned manufacturing firms. However, the status of innovation practices at Kibalime Batteries limited remained unexplored. This study focused on assessing innovation practices at Kibalime Batteries Limited in Kampala City. The study objectives were to: examine innovation practices, their potential benefits, and strategies for improving innovation practices at the company. A cross sectional research design utilizing a qualitative approach was adopted. Thirteen out of 15 officers, purposively selected from Kibalime Batteries Limited, were contacted by interview guides and participated in the study. Findings revealed that innovation practices were moderate (60%) at the company, more evident in product than market innovations. Product innovation practices involved modifications in conventional batteries by design and features, production of maintenance free batteries, solar batteries, and old battery recycling. Granting a warranty, battery aftersales clinics, re-purchase of used batteries and on-line marketing were the noted market innovations at the company. Innovation practices yielded several benefits like enhancement of battery functionality, production of user-friendly, cost –effective and environmentally friendly batteries. Innovations supported quality production operations, product design, increased market sales and import substitution of inputs at company. Amidst several challenges, strategies to improve innovation practices at the company included expansion of the recycling plant, establishment of an R&D unit, need for an attitudinal change of behaviour held by managers and company founders about innovation. Conclusively, innovation practices at Kibalime Batteries Limited deserved further improvement. Hence, recommendations included; need to acquire modern machinery, boost innovation inertia among employees, management and founders. A functional research and development department was also ideal for better innovation at the company. The influence of Kaizen Innovation model on innovation practices at the company, and a replicate of this study in other family-owned businesses in Uganda were noted areas for further research.