Enter the profit generated by innovation ($) and the cost of innovation ($) into the Return on Innovation Calculator. The calculator will evaluate and display the Return on Innovation. 

Return on Innovation Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Return on Innovation. 

ROIn = PI / CI * 100
  • Where ROIn is the Return on Innovation (%)
  • PI is the profit generated by innovation ($) 
  • CI is the cost of innovation ($) 

How to Calculate Return on Innovation?

The following example problems outline how to calculate Return on Innovation.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the profit generated by innovation ($).
    • The profit generated by innovation ($) is given as: 67.
  2. Next, determine the cost of innovation ($).
    • The cost of innovation ($) is provided as: 480.
  3. Finally, calculate the Return on Innovation using the equation above: 

ROIn = PI / CI * 100

The values given above are inserted into the equation below and the solution is calculated:

ROIn = 67 / 480 * 100 = 13.95 (%)


FAQ

What factors can affect the Return on Innovation?

Several factors can impact the Return on Innovation, including the scale and scope of the innovation, market acceptance, competitive response, the efficiency of the implementation process, and the overall cost structure of the innovation project. External factors such as economic conditions and regulatory changes can also play a significant role.

How can businesses improve their Return on Innovation?

Businesses can improve their Return on Innovation by focusing on high-impact innovations, optimizing the innovation process to reduce costs and time to market, leveraging customer feedback to guide development, and strategically managing the portfolio of innovation projects to balance risk and reward. Additionally, fostering a culture that encourages creativity and collaboration can also contribute to higher returns.

Is Return on Innovation the only metric to measure innovation success?

No, Return on Innovation is just one of many metrics used to measure innovation success. Other metrics include the innovation adoption rate, the time to break even, market share changes, customer satisfaction and engagement levels, and the impact on brand reputation. Companies often use a combination of these metrics to get a comprehensive view of their innovation’s performance.