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Leading Innovation: The Role of Creativity

Eureka

Leading Innovation

We can agree that innovation is a critical component for building a competitive edge and solving problems and challenges along the way.
As we pursue innovation, we seek attributes like creativity and thinking outside-the-box. If only leading innovation was as simple as gathering groups of creatives and letting them brainstorm.   The reality is that working with creatives and outside the box thinkers can be like herding cats.
I believe that when you’re herding your creative cats, it helps to clarify and communicate what’s valuable. That starts by clarifying definitions and parameters. If you’re questioning the wisdom of using the words parameters and creative in the same paragraph, allow me to explain.  First I ask…

innovation

Is creativity a valuable talent?

It depends. For every successful creative business person, there are many more smart, creative folks who have floundered. John Wooden, the Legendary College Basketball Coach  (more) has this advice.

 
“Never mistake activity for achievement”

This is a potential trap of creativity for the sake of creativity.

Creativity Defined

The use of the imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of an artistic work.  

-Google Search

Innovation Defined

Eureka!

The process of translating an idea or invention into a good or service that creates value or for which customers will pay.

–  Business Dictionary

Lessons from Automotive Product Failures

Is creativity a prerequisite for innovation?  Of course. Where do those ideas come from?  Just be aware that creativity is the beginning, not the end. And if you’re not beginning with an end in mind, you can get things like

  • The Volvo Convertible from that safety-first brand
  • The Cadillac Cimarron (that failed small car from a big car company)

In both cases, it was the wrong end in mind; sell more at all cost

Hungry Cat

What’s an Innovation Leader to Do?

When your creative cats are hungry enough, they do show up for feeding time.  How might you inspire a herd of cats hungry for effective innovation?

  • Foster an environment of creativity for the sake of innovation.
  • Challenge your creatives with thought provoking, goal orientated questions.

Acknowledgements

  • Annie The Cat photo borrowed from the Lemanski Collection
  • Light bulb image courtesy Creative Commons