The document discusses the transformation of global capability centers (GCCs) in India into global innovation centers (GICs), highlighting their evolving role in driving innovation and collaboration within Fortune 500 companies. It emphasizes the need for GCCs to focus on value creation, diverse talent development, and sustainable practices while adopting robust innovation frameworks for future success. Ultimately, it positions India's GCCs as pivotal players in addressing global challenges and shaping the future of innovation.

1. 1
Volume 5 | Issue 2
Oct-Dec 2024
Viewpoint
Reimagining GCCs:
From Operational Hubs to
Global Innovation Powerhouses
In the bustling tech corridors of Bengaluru and the innovation hubs of Hyderabad and
Chennai, a quiet transformation is taking place. What began as cost-saving outposts
for Fortune 500 companies has evolved into something far greater: a shift from
Global Capability Centers (GCCs) to Global Innovation Centers (GICs). This transition
marks a pivotal moment in India’s ascent as a global innovation powerhouse in Gen
AI world, where the focus is no longer just on execution but on creating lasting value
through innovation and collaboration.
The Journey from Cost to Collaboration
When Fortune 500 companies entered India, their mission was clear: reduce costs,
ensure quality, taking time zone advantage and accelerate time-to-market with
seamless product development and delivery. India offered a unique trifecta—an
abundant talent pool, competitive costs, and a culture of excellence. But today, the
expectations have changed. GCCs are now critical nodes in a company’s innovation
strategy, tasked with driving transformation, leveraging emerging technologies, and
fostering global collaboration. This shift demands a rethinking of how GCCs operate
and, more importantly, how they design themselves for the future.
Redefining the Mission: From Execution to Value
Creation
To remain relevant, GCCs must transform into innovation engines. This requires a
dual approach: solving today’s problems while envisioning solutions for tomorrow.
Leaders must integrate research and development, digital transformation, and
design thinking into their core DNA. Innovation is no longer a luxury; it’s an
expectation. Companies must focus on delivering business outcomes through
cutting-edge advancements in AI, IoT, blockchain, and other transformative
technologies.
Value
Creation

2. 2
The Talent Imperative: Shaping the Workforce of the
Future
Innovation starts with people. The next wave of GCC evolution hinges on developing
talent with future-ready skills. Upskilling and reskilling programs, powered by
partnerships with universities and global online platforms, are critical.
Furthermore, innovation thrives on diversity. Building teams that reflect a broad
range of perspectives enhances problem-solving and creativity. For GCCs, attracting
global talent and fostering an inclusive workplace are no longer optional—they are
essential.
Innovation Frameworks: The Blueprint for Tomorrow
The transition to GICs requires a disciplined approach to innovation. Implementing
robust innovation frameworks can unlock creativity while ensuring alignment with
organizational goals. These frameworks focus on 3E’s:
• Encouraging structured ideation and experimentation.
• Establishing innovation labs for rapid prototyping and scaling.
• Embedding feedback loops for continuous refinement.
Such systems not only drive breakthrough ideas but also foster a culture where
experimentation and learning from failure are celebrated.
Collaboration as the Cornerstone
Today’s innovation landscape is not built in silos; it thrives on partnerships. GCCs
must actively:
• Collaborate globally, breaking down barriers between geographies and
functions.
• Engage with startups, academia, and think tanks, tapping into external
innovation ecosystems and maximize human potential.
This collaborative approach accelerates problem-solving and ensures that GCCs
remain aligned with global innovation agendas.
Sustainability and ESG: The New Mandate
In a world increasingly defined by environmental and social challenges, GCCs must
align their innovation efforts with Sustainability and Environmental, Social,
Governance(ESG) goals. Integrating green technologies and contributing to societal
well-being are not just ethical imperatives—they are business imperatives.
Companies that lead in sustainability will also lead in market relevance.
Measuring Success Beyond Cost
Traditional GCC metrics like cost savings and efficiency no longer suffice. The next
phase demands new indicators:
• Innovation Outcomes: Contributions to patents, product pipelines, and
market disruptions.
• Employee Engagement: A highly engaged and skilled workforce is the
backbone of innovation.
• Global Impact: How GCCs drive strategic value for their organizations
worldwide with increased perceived value .
Collaboration

3. 3
India’s Role as a Global Innovation Hub
As the world leans on India for its unmatched blend of talent and ingenuity, GCCs
have a unique opportunity to redefine their role on the global stage. They are no
longer just enablers of efficiency; they are architects of innovation, poised to solve
some of the world’s biggest challenges. For companies ready to embrace this
transformation, the future is bright. By focusing on people, frameworks,
collaboration, and sustainability, GCCs can not only remain relevant but also lead
the global innovation agenda.
India is not just a part of the future—it is shaping it. And the GCCs that rise to this
moment will leave a legacy far beyond cost savings: they will be remembered as
the engines of innovation for the next generation.
Author:
Lokesh Venkataswamy
CEO & Managing Director
Lokeshv@innomantra.com
About Innomantra
Innomantra is a premier advisory, consulting, and services firm specializing in
Digital Transformation, Innovation, and Intellectual Property Management. The
firm partners with organizations to craft and implement digital strategies,
establish robust innovation management systems including ISO56000 series, and
achieve intellectual property goals. By fostering a culture of innovation,
Innomantra empowers its clients to unlock amplified efficiency and achieve
exponential growth.
Central to its philosophy are Innovation3x and Discover Design Thinking,
frameworks that advocate for organizations to set ambitious innovation goals—
achieving outcomes three times greater than conventional benchmarks.
Innomantra’s globally recognized, signature approach integrates business
strategy, people development, and functional systems within a dynamic digital
ecosystem.
With a diverse portfolio of 100+ clients ranging from SMEs to Fortune Global 500
companies, Innomantra leverages strategic alliances with global leaders in digital
innovation. Headquartered in Bengaluru, India, the firm maintains a strong global
presence, solidifying its role as a trusted partner for organizations aiming to lead
in the innovation-driven economy.
Innomantra Consulting Private Limited
Level 9, Raheja Towers
Mahatma Gandhi Road, Bengaluru - 560 001, India
Mobile: +91 98452 72555
+91 080 41253444
contact@innomantra.com
www.innomantra.com
2024© Innomantra Consulting Private Limited
Innovation
Catalyst