This study examines idea evaluation in the front-end of an innovation process. In center of the study are the roles of an idea champion and idea sponsor, their collaboration and feedback to idea creator about the results of the evaluation. Examined evaluation of ideas takes place in the front-end of an innovation process where IT based tool is used to support the process. Front-end of an innovation process supported by virtual environment provides exceptional context to study idea evaluation.

The objective of the study was to study what kinds of evaluation practices support the targets of the ideating phase. The study was conducted as part of Visci-Tools research project. Research data was gathered by two different methods with semi-structured interviews and audio of a workshop.

The research was conducted as empirical case study. Subject of the research was two ideas that were evaluated as good ones and promoted to further development. There were 15 persons from different countries within the organization who took part in the studied cases.

From the research results one can recognize the supporting impact of the positive feedback to the innovation process as well as the heightened role of an idea champion, which is balanced by the role of an idea sponsor. The study shows that idea evaluation has important role in the front-end of an innovation process, where the contradiction of control and creativity can be balanced with good communication practice.

Factors that increase control are useful for the targets of the process, but the downside they bring can be decreased by communication and supporting practices.