The Classic Pitfalls of Innovation
Mandates, Training, Process, Talent, Conflict, Risk
Where Have Your Initiatives Failed?
Innovation programs are like a labyrinth designed to have you lose your way — and die!
Organizations fail with initiatives for many reasons, with lots of good intentions. I was thinking about an upcoming talk I’m giving on innovation pitfalls — and got bored looking for graphics. So, I drew this, somewhat funky, diagram. It might be the only slide I need.
It’s somewhat self-explanatory but let me make a few remarks:
- The most important bubble is in yellow. Projects are what drive innovation and change cultures. Getting projects going can help you trump all the other pitfalls.
- Having a mandate might deserve it’s own color highlight. You can innovate without one, it just entails more risk. It’s the pitfall a lot of newbies don’t see coming, and it’s devastating.
- Team conflict sinks valiant efforts, motivation, mandates, projects, and training. It is often nasty and difficult to sort out the conflict, but it’s even worse if you don’t face it. Leadership is how this is overcome, another missing bubble.
- Talent is important but you can grow, borrow, and steal talent. Still, without it, you’re hosed.
- Risk aversion is a signal that the organization wants to die. Nothing wrong with careful innovation, but at some point, risks are what bring rewards.
- Process can either be a big help, or a big hindrance. What process you use (Agile, Design Thinking, Other) does indeed make a difference, and choosing a process might deserve it’s own bubble. Used improperly, a structured process will cramp your style. Used right, it’s a competitive edge.
If this is of interest I’d be happy to come talk to your team about how to overcome these pitfalls. This could be done as a consultation, a keynote, or a workshop.
I’m also available to talk about innovation on radio and television programs — I have a knack for getting to the point and simplifying complex innovation issues.
FYI:I’m doing a public workshop in Portage, Indiana, in association with the Society of Innovators at Purdue Northwest, on September 19th, where this is the main topic. Register here. Or give me a call.
