GE Reports recently released its 2018 Global Innovation Barometer, gauging the state of innovation around the world. The report is based on responses from 2,090 executives in 20 countries.
Among the key findings: a shift from small businesses to large multinationals as drivers of innovation; confidence in the transformative power of lower-profile technologies such as energy grids, virtual healthcare, and smart cities; concerns about the skills gap; and optimism about the potential of 3D printing.
A majority of respondents found protectionist policies beneficial, and results show Japan and China taking on a greater leadership role as champions of innovation.