Barriers to Innovation Management in Manufacturing Firms and the Selection of the Ideal Innovation Strategy: The Case of Samsun Province

Abstract In today’s competitive environment, it is increasingly challenging for businesses to survive and sustain themselves. Globalization and intense market dynamics have reduced the role of cost as the sole determinant of competitive advantage, while technological integration, innovation management, and strategic planning have gained importance. In particular, the manufacturing sector, as a key indicator of sustainable production, underscores the significance of innovation and related strategies. This study aims to examine the barriers to innovation management practices in manufacturing enterprises operating in Samsun and to identify the most suitable innovation strategy based on the current context. Supported by a literature review, the research employs the RANCOM (Ranking Comparison Method), Entropy, and WASPAS (Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment) methods. The study identified “Communication Difficulties and Incentives” as the most significant barrier to innovation management in corporate manufacturing enterprises, while the most prominent strategy was found to be the “Aggressive Innovation Strategy.” The study offers guidance for managers and stakeholders in identifying innovation barriers and selecting appropriate strategies and also provides a foundation and model for future research on innovation management practices in manufacturing enterprises.