A recent report published by the Harvard Business Review (hbr.org), shows a strong correlation between English language proficiency and innovative success. According to the report, countries with strong English language skills outperform other countries in terms of innovation.
The root cause for this is that innovation nowadays tends to be internationally inclusive. Primary scientific research is most often available in English and cross-border collaboration usually takes place in the English language. Top tech enterprises are also more likely to bring international talent into the organization and participate in international conferences.
This development is reflected in changes at Universities in Germany, and elsewhere in Europe. According to the website studieren-in-deutschland.de, an increasing number of German universities now offer courses partially or even completely in English, especially at Master’s level. This is not only to attract foreign students, but also to accommodate foreign lecturers and prepare students for the international nature of innovative industries.
As German companies seek to keep their innovative advantage over European rivals, English language skills have become a key factor. Attracting the best minds to work for German companies means removing language barriers as far as possible, as does working with partners and sub-contractors in foreign countries.
While many German companies are well aware that their international sales is directly impacted by the English skills of their sales and marketing staff, the report now also highlights the importance of language skills for innovation and collaboration. With English skills in Germany improving more slowly than in many neighboring countries, it is essential that companies now take steps to ensure that their business do not fall behind.
Read more about this: https://hbr.org/2015/11/countries-with-high-english-proficiency-are-more-innovative