METHODOLOGIES FOR ASSESSING INNOVATION POTENTIAL IN CONTEMPORARY SETTINGS

Abstract

This article examines the essence of the "innovation potential" concept in the context of digital transformation and provides scientific justification for distinguishing its component - digital potential. The study's relevance stems from fundamental changes in the economic environment driven by accelerated technological progress, comprehensive digitalization of business processes, and the growing importance of knowledge and data as key strategic resources. In an era where digital technologies not only automate existing processes but fundamentally transform business models and the very nature of innovation, there is an urgent need to refine the conceptual foundations of innovation activity, adapt the "innovation potential" framework, and incorporate the specific characteristics of the digital age. The research methodology employs general scientific approaches and specialized methods, including analysis, synthesis, logical generalization, and systematization of scholarly literature. The study investigates the conceptual content of "potential," "innovation," and "innovation potential" within contemporary economic realities, while also analyzing existing approaches to interpreting economic and innovation potential and its structural components as presented in academic sources. The research establishes that despite significant scholarly work on the nature and components of innovation potential (including resource-based, systemic, and functional approaches), this field requires further adaptation to digital transformation, particularly regarding its structural elements. The study reveals the absence of a universal set of innovation potential components, which is attributed to various factors including enterprise-specific operations, industry characteristics, and strategic development priorities. It is determined that the comprehensive nature of digitalization significantly impacts all aspects of innovation activity and enterprise potential development. The article substantiates the necessity to expand the traditional interpretation of innovation potential by explicitly incorporating digital potential. Digital potential proves critical for business model adaptation, internal process optimization, and value creation in digital environments. The study demonstrates that identifying digital potential as a distinct yet integral component - alongside core universal elements of innovation potential (scientific-technical, human resources, financial, and market) - enables a more complete, accurate, and adequate assessment of an enterprise's innovation capabilities in the digital era. This approach is crucial for developing effective innovation strategies, targeted resource management, rapid adaptation to digital challenges, and ensuring competitiveness and sustainable operations in today's dynamic market.