books by Elmar

The Innovation Factory takes a fresh look at the fine art of breakthrough innovation. What makes it unique is that it brings together an experienced scholar and a serial entrepreneur who share the same passion for understanding the processes and theories needed to innovate over and over again. The book marries theory with practical examples focusing on the Concept-Knowledge (C-K)Theory developed by the prestigious school Mines ParisTech. You will discover the unknown story of the Swatch watch told by Elmar Mock, the creative engineering force behind the Swatch. In this book, he passionately tells how he helped to create this breakthrough innovation that saved the Swiss watch industry in the 1980s. Gilles Garel, a professor of management, relates this tale of epic innovation to C-K theory.

Both authors argue that organizations can channel creativity in order to develop breakthrough innovations that disrupt markets. The book provides an overview of the characteristics and essential strengths of the successful Innovation Factory, Creaholic, based in Switzerland. This example helps readers grasp what breakthrough innovation is truly all about. The book’s use of vibrant metaphors helps readers easily digest the ideas and concepts presented. The book concludes with thoughts about the future of the watch industry.

Original French version, Paris, Dunod, 2012(ISBN 978-2-100-57702-6)
French version, 2nd edition 2016,Dunod (ISBN 978-2100746057)
Translated into English, THE INNOVATION FACTORY, Auerbach Publications, 2016(ISBN 978-1498740210)
Translated into German, INNOVATION FACTORY, GrowthPublishing, 2013(ISBN 978-2940384228)