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Mindset and Innovation: Techniques for More Innovative Thinking
Introduction
No matter our career path, in the present climate of rapid technological and societal advances, a certain level of organizations, from start-ups to corporate juggernauts, require a culture of innovation to remain competitive. Innovation isn’t just about having a good idea; it’s about being able to act on it, nurture it, and see it flourish in the market. While it’s true that luck and timing often play a part in success, those who operate with a creative mindset are more likely to have the tools and capabilities to turn great ideas into business-transforming products or services – and it is this mindset that can be developed and nurtured through well-targeted techniques.
Techniques for an Innovative Mindset
Innovative thinking requires creativity, and fortunately, there are actionable techniques which we can adopt to take our ideas to the next level. Here are some of the most effective approaches we can take to cultivate our creativity:
1. Embrace the Unfamiliar
The most successful business leaders take risks, and this often involves getting outside their comfort zone. For example, if you’re a start-up founder, make sure you understand the industries, challenges and capabilities of the field you’re entering.
Innovative thinkers also recognize that even the most successful organizations can get lost in the same-old, same-old, so don’t stick to the same old solutions. Take a minute to step out of the industrial norm and explore new possibilities, then apply them to your own context.
Example 1:
An upscale apartment complex in a large city began commanding top-dollar rents by nixing traditional hallways and instead opted for large, airy courtyards which allowed the apartments to flow directly off of them. This gave the complex a unique edge in a crowded market.
Example 2:
A manufacturing facility in Wisconsin wanted to increase efficiency, so they tapped local engineering students to design and implement a cutting-edge streamlining system. In doing so, they loaned out valuable equipment and allowed the students to boast hands-on experience in their resumes, thus creating a win-win scenario and increasing efficiency overall.
Example 3:
A healthcare provider providing service to 23 counties across the state needed a better way to communicate with their customers, so they created an app that allowed for direct notifications about medical appointments and bills. Patients were thrilled, as were administrators who no longer had to pay for snail mail notifications.
2. Keep a Curious Mind
Having a curious mind can be beneficial for individuals and organizations who seek to innovate. Openness to new ideas and information can lead to fresh perspectives and creative solutions. To create an environment of curiosity, set aside time to read, explore, and engage with ideas that push the boundaries of your existing knowledge. Encouraging yourself to recognize the value of creative novelties and the potential of unconventional ideas can be the kernel of an innovative breakthrough.
Example 1:
A fashion retailer wanted to attract more foot traffic to their stores and retool their approach to customer service, so they reached out to a local street art troupe to fill their walls with crazy and vibrant graffiti. In doing so, they accomplished both objectives, becoming a destination that shoppers couldn’t pass up.
Example 2:
A Brooklyn-based design firm sought to make a splash with their newest packaging for a beverage product, so they opted for bright colors, tempting illustrations, and unique font treatments in order to stand apart from the competition. All of their efforts proved successful, and their product enjoyed higher sales at retail outlets.
Example 3:
A start up in the food industry needed a clever way to distribute their product so that it would not spoil, so they partnered with couriers to deliver their goods in insulated boxes. These boxes could be recycled, so the company achieved both a novel distribution system and a green initiative that consumers could get behind.
3. Connect Ideas
Innovative connective thinking brings together ideas from different areas and industries, creating original solutions that offer something truly original. When pursuing this, think big and let yourself connect the dots. When ideas clash, they can give birth to totally new thoughts.
Example 1:
An event management firm needed a creative way to draw attention to their latest venture, so they employed an artistic solution to access two different demographics: they paired a pop music artist with a classical performer for a unique collaboration.
Example 2:
An engineering company looking for a way to deliver maximum output with fewer resources, turned to an unlikely source, organic agriculture. By following the principles of organic agriculture and engineering systems around natural cycles, they created a system that ran efficiently and cleanly, while saving costs.
Example 3:
A private swim school wanted to expand their business but was limited by the size of their pool. To combat this, they partnered with a local yoga studio, allowing for pool classes to take place in a nearby studio in winter months. This unique solution enabled the business to remain profitable year round.
Conclusion
Anyone who wants to stay ahead of the competition needs to be an innovative leader in their field. This requires more than simply having a good idea; it means taking those ideas and finding an effective way to implement them. With the strategic approaches listed above, anyone can learn how to cultivate a creative mindset, connecting disparate ideas and embracing unfamiliar opportunities to create something unique and successful.
FAQs
1. What is innovation?
Innovation is the practice of creating something new and better than what exists before. It involves using methods, processes, or products to make something better than what is currently out there.
2. What are the benefits of an innovative mindset?
An innovative mindset is advantageous in any business setting, as it encourages creative problem-solving, increases productivity, and creates new opportunities. It also allows businesses to stay ahead of the competition, as they can create unique products and services to differentiate themselves from the competition.
3. What are the main techniques for creating an innovative mindset?
The main techniques for creating an innovative mindset include embracing the unfamiliar, keeping a curious mind, and connecting ideas from different contexts. All of these techniques help individuals think “outside the box”, allowing them to come up with unique and successful solutions.
4. How can I cultivate an innovative mindset in myself and my team?
The best way to cultivate an innovative mindset is to start by exploring unfamiliar ideas and areas. Encourage team members to share their thoughts and ideas, and allow them the freedom to explore new and creative ways of doing things – even if they don’t pan out in the end. Additionally, seek out new information and sources of inspiration, as these can all help you remain at the top of your game.
5. What are the potential risks of innovating?
Innovating carries with it the risk of investing time and resources into something that may not pan out in the end. Additionally, if the innovation is too far outside the context of the industry, it can be difficult to make a strong business case for the new product or service. As a result, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits of a new venture carefully before going ahead with it.