The article explores how interactions and the design of innovation processes impact company innovation performance. The researchers used literature studies and interviews with 24 companies in Central and Eastern Europe. They found that a well-designed innovation process with elements like pre-preparation, information sharing, and external cooperation is crucial for success. Companies with active innovation management processes showed improved performance through routines, formal procedures, and transparency. Interactions between resources, benefits, and outcomes at different stages of the process were also important. The study fills a gap in understanding how interactions and process design can make innovation more efficient.