Chance or Choice ― Unlocking Innovation Success

Management consultant Caraballo and data analyst McLaughlin introduce an original framework and seven-step method for strategic innovation, which can be used in all sectors. The ideas are based on the authors' ongoing study measuring attitudes towards innovation in different cultures and countries around the world. The book is accessible to all and includes chapter discussion questions and many summary tables. Annotation c2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Ervin L. "Vinny" Caraballo is the CEO of Global Targeting, Inc., a management advisory firm with a focus on helping companies expand and improve operations through global business development and sourcing strategy, as well as applying innovation methodologies to build a competitive advantage. He developed his expertise and honed his skills through senior management positions at several global technology and consulting firms and involvement in entrepreneurial ventures. Consequently, he has advised clients in the United States, Latin America, and Asia. Prior to entering the private sector, he served as a U.S. Army aviation officer.

As a scholar–practitioner, he has brought his management expertise and experience into the classroom as a professor of marketing, strategy, global operations, and supply chain management at numerous universities around the world. His interest in innovation research led him to create the Project Impact Institute, a global research and innovation certification-based organization that studies how culture impacts innovation. He has a doctorate in international business administration from Nova Southeastern University and an MBA from Webster University.

Greg McLaughlin is senior vice president, research and development, at Global Targeting, Inc. Greg brings a broad set of research and practical expertise on innovation strategy, deployment, and ongoing success. Greg’s most distinguished skill is his ability to interpret data and provide a common sense, practical application. He can look beyond the numbers to find a solution to complex problems. Greg can convert these findings into a usable set of information, whether it is in print or in conversation. His unique contribution to Global Targeting, Inc. has been the creation of the training materials and application of the ENOVALE methodologies. Greg can explain these integrated processes so thoroughly that it seems second nature to most individuals.

As an analyst, a researcher, and a technology executive, Greg has helped design and develop innovative products, processes, and systems. His career has enabled him to work on such critical innovative projects as digital photography, unique consumer products, high-tech aircraft materials and design, redesigned medical devices, and software development. Cost savings alone from these projects exceed $300 million. He honed his skills as a senior Six Sigma master black belt and quality management consultant, working directly with Dr. W. Edwards Deming.

Greg has held a number of executive positions with such organizations as Reynolds Metals Company, Inthesis, Inc., and ADT Security Systems. He has international business advisory and instructional experience. He has authored numerous publications and training manuals, including the book Total Quality in Research and Development.

His educational achievements include a doctorate in business administration from Nova Southeastern University, a master of science degree in statistics, and an undergraduate degree in meteorology from Florida State University. Greg was director of doctoral research at Nova Southeastern University and was instrumental in creating an innovative dissertation and course room process for the doctor of business administration degree at Capella University.