Encouraging Innovation

A good place to seek new ideas is at the intersections of “new technology and customer needs.” Each intersection is an opportunity. Pay attention to demographic and market changes. Develop and recognize good new ideas by taking these actions:

“Provide rewards” – Encourage people to try new things, even if they fail.
Create “a climate of innovation” – Maintain openness, promote people based on their merits and never get complacent.

“Hire innovative people” – People who are experts in more than one field, enjoy solving problems and look at the world a little differently tend to be creative.

“Encourage the cross-pollination of ideas” – Put together teams from different departments, provide outside training and bring in experts.

Provide “support for innovators” – Make managers responsible for championing new ideas. Mental habits such as strictly following rules, protecting your “turf” and negativity dampen creativity. Instead, embrace playfulness, risk taking, tolerance and flexibility.