We know that what is good for our customers today is not necessarily good enough for them tomorrow. At AkzoNobel Surface Chemistry, we believe the future belongs to those smart enough to challenge the status quo and deliver on the innovation promise.

To this end, Dr. Dale Steichen, Vice President of Research and Technology for AkzoNobel’s Surface Chemistry Business is focused on improving innovation across the business. The question he is asking is: What must Surface Chemistry do differently in innovation to make our customers more successful in the years ahead? The answer to this question will build an understanding of how Surface Chemistry can best provide leading edge technology to where it matters most…our customers.

Surface Chemistry has put dedicated Innovation Managers (a new position) in each business area reporting to the Business Directors and asked them to develop the processes, resources, competencies and culture of Surface Chemistry required to drive innovation. In a recent discussion, Dr. Steichen explained; “Shaping our innovation processes and organization to sharpen our focus is vital. Particularly in a period of belt tightening, resources must be carefully directed to the needs of our customers and their important geographies and markets. Surface Chemistry and our customers cannot work on a diluted set of priorities but need to focus on the best opportunities that this challenging economic environment provides.”

In following a more rigorous set of innovation objectives with a well defined path to implementation, Surface Chemistry will remain well positioned to deliver on the promise of new technology for customers where needed. We believe that real progress belongs to those who not only think with courage, but also have the resolve to deliver Tomorrow’s Answers Today®.

For more information on how we can make you more successful, please click “Contact Us” below.