The role of the facilitator in the work with groups in the business model innovation process

Abstract: This master’s thesis explores the role of the facilitator in business model innovation [BMI]. In the last 15 years BMI has gained increasing importance for companies to establish a competitive advantage. Yet, BMI is considered to be marked by high complexity and phases of uncertainty in the process of creating it. Equipped with the skills and characteristics, a facilitator may support groups in their endeavor to create BMIs. As a result of a qualitative study including expert interviews and observations of facilitated workshops, five aggregated dimensions describing the role of the business model facilitator are identified. The results suggest that a facilitator may contribute to BMI by leading and navigating the process, supporting the group to generate knowledge and taking ideas to actions, sharing his or her own knowledge with the team, and by providing mental support and stability. Thereby, the facilitator may contribute to BMI on three levels: the team level, the process level, and the new business model.