subject: Promoting A Culture Of Innovation For A Successful Enterprise [print this page] Innovation is about whats new and whats nextInnovation is about whats new and whats next. Its about that exciting leap forward into uncharted territory. Innovation, be it small or incremental, large or disruptive, is all about change. For most of us the idea of innovation is laced with positive and desirable assumptions about something that will be cooler, better than whatever we have.
The Kelloggs Company, for example, was formed when Kellogg attempted to salvage some left over boiled wheat that went stale, by rolling it into dough. Kellogg (aided by his brother Will) found that it tore into pieces and refused to hold a shape. Undaunted, they toasted the flakes and were pleasantly surprised by the result. This ready-to-eat cereal innovation changed the way people eat breakfast worldwide. W.K. Kelloggs product innovation and drive for market expansion influenced the Kellogg Company and the food industry around the world today.
Kellogg has established itself as an industry leader in the cereal category with health-conscious, innovative breakfast choices like Special K, All Bran and 19 cereal choices.
In most cases, innovation is often mistaken for invention. When people talk about innovation they often think about lab technicians in white coats with huge R&D budgets. On a business level though, innovation is assumed as, companies developing brand new, cutting edge product lines or going through alterations to their business models. Large businesses are under continual pressure to be more innovative to sustain the market. Innovation usually generates a competitive advantage, ensures companies to remain at the cutting edge of product design and customer service.
Innovation can start from things as simple as reviewing business operations and processes, to reviewing market segments, sharpening focus on target customers and redefining strategies used in different markets. For a successful enterprise and for innovation to be enduring, top corporate executives must continually encourage, challenge and recognize employees who innovate. Employees should be allowed time in their schedules to learn about innovation and practice it on an ongoing basis. Innovation is not limited to the invention of new products. It is about consciously and continuously doing things in a better manner so that you are always ahead of the ever-accelerating competition. If the employees are engaged in the thought process to generate ideas, it not only increases the likelihood that individual employees will generate new ideas, it also suggests that idea generation among engaged employees can be amplified when it occurs in a team setting. Know more on Idea Management Software
For many large businesses, real innovation is more likely to be about making day-to-day improvements in how the business operates in terms of people and process. And this in itself helps promote a culture of greater innovation within the business rather than enforcing innovation through paradigm shifts in product and service.
With an aim to foster a culture of innovation and knowledge, to help organizations enhance their success, brand value and loyalty, idea management and innovation has acquired a greater significance over the years.
