How can we become more innovative?

How can we become more innovative? Where do we start? How can we increase the momentum? How can we get more people motivated and involved? What do we need to
be innovative about? What do we have to do to release people’s innovative potential?

These, and many other similar questions, may flash through our minds as we think about the challenges and opportunities involved in Innovation.

There are no easy answers. There is no magic formula. We should recognize that Innovation is a complex topic that requires a progressive approach that will result in
building a sustainable capability.

There are a few essential building blocks. Each block must be designed to suit the circumstances and situation. The first block is about the intent to be more innovative. In
corporate organizations this intent can be reflected in the strategy. Of course, the strategy must be accepted and communicated. For individuals the intent can be stated in
a written personal objective or goal statement.

The second block involves creating an environment that allows and encourages people to be innovative. Innovation needs the freedom to explore, to challenge the status quo and to take calculated risks. There should be no fear of failure. Many innovations will fail along the road. This is part of the process and all failures provide learning opportunity.

In many companies creating an appropriate environment for Innovation is a difficult task and it will take time and considerable effort. The rules, regulations, procedures,
bureaucracy and management style used to control current performance can inhibit innovation. Really good innovators can find ways around these restrictions and they
should be encouraged to do so and not be penalized for their efforts.

The third essential building block is to develop a thorough understanding of the innovation process, its implications and techniques. There are many interpretations of
the meaning of Innovation and it helps if there is a common understanding of what it involves. Everyone is capable of being innovative but their potential can be extended
through training, research and practice.

The fourth building block is the deep belief that it should and can be done. Without this it becomes easy to give up and revert to continuing to do things the same old way. If you have the intent, the environment, the knowledge and understanding, and the belief then you will have an Innovative 2005! Future issues of our Newsletter will cover these topics in more depth. If you have comments or questions on them – let us know, and we will endeavour to address them.