This course is targeted at anyone interested in communicating complex information more effectively – an essential skill in managing and diffusing innovations. You will learn how to communicate customer needs to engineering as well as how to break down complex technical information. We will review and apply the state-of-the art in communicating technical knowledge. Throughout the course you will have the opportunity to practice your communication skills hands-on.

In this class, participants will get explore questions such as:

• What are state-of-the art communication theories?
• What is the link between communication and innovation regarding value creation as well as value capture?
• What role do previous experiences play?
• How do one’s own biases influence the perception of new information?
• How to communicate more effectively?

After completing this class, students will have the following skills and competences:

• ability to communicate complex information and coping strategies
• knowledge of communication theories and their link with innovation
• awareness of own biases

Minimum attendance: 80% of scheduled hours

This course relies on the inputs of its participants. Learning methods include individual in-class exercises, group work, presentations and lectures.

25 % in-class participation (individual assessment)

50% in-class exercises (individual assessment)

25% short reflection paper (individual assessment)