Innovation expert presents recession findings at University of Plymouth

One of the authors of a challenging new manifesto on the country’s response to the economic downturn has given a keynote speech at the University of Plymouth. One of the authors of a challenging new manifesto on the country’s response to the economic downturn has given a keynote speech at the University of Plymouth. Professor James Woudhuysen is one of the academics behind the recently published 'BIG POTATOES', which has set out to challenge conventional wisdom around innovation. Containing case studies on innovation and enterprise during the 20th Century’s recessions, 'BIG POTATOES' has, in particular, looked at the differences between the Great Depression and the recent credit crunch, and drawn some hard-hitting conclusions for the government and today’s business leaders. Colin Searls, Associate Dean, Teaching and Learning at the University of Plymouth, said: “ We were delighted to have Professor Woudhuysen come to the University for what was his first talk in the South West, and one of the first nationally to cover this topic. “He provided some fascinating insights into the research and background that led to the manifesto being produced. He has a knack of registering trends before other people, and offering counter-intuitive proposals on what to do about them – so it was a very thought-provoking session." Professor Woudhuysen, is a Visiting Professor of Forecasting and Innovation, at De Montfort University, Leicester.