Abstract:

Qualitative research that follows a holistic model, emphasizing the importance of the whole while simultaneously acknowledging the vital interdependence of its parts, reaps the best results. How companies and their research partners can obtain the best results is illustrated with examples. Things can sometimes go wrong: the steps that should be taken to avoid jeopardizing the success of a project will be illustrated. Finally, our own definition of the Holistic Approach will be provided and a 'check list' of actions indispensable to the conduct of successful research and innovation will be proposed.