Thursday, September 21, 2006

Innovation, not just a better mousetap...

We all understand pretty well what "Invention" is, but "Innovation"? that is not as well defined, even by the dictionary.

Recently I read that innovation requires that the invention be adopted into wide usage. So just inventing a better way to do something is not innovation until it is put into use. And on the flip side, innovation does not necessarily require an 'invention', just a change to a better way of working (though maybe that is the 'invention'?)

Anyway, being aware that innovating requires working with other people's habits is an important insight. So when we suggest a new feature, procedure or approach, it won't happen unless we can effectively sell it in the face of people's habits.

Let's hear it for sales!

Nevertheless, it takes the insights about both the business and the people to craft innovative improvements. Each person innovates every time they make a change in their habits for the better, but getting others to follow, that's leadership.

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