Have you ever found yourself stuck in a creative rut, unable to develop fresh ideas? Or maybe you struggle to find inspiration for a new project or task. It can be frustrating and discouraging, but you're not alone. It's easy to fall into a routine and rely on the same old ways to find ideas, but we limit our creative potential by doing so.  In this post, we will explore ten uncommon and non-obvious ways to spark your creativity and find new ideas. These techniques can serve as a starting point to get you out of your comfort zone and help you find new ideas. So, grab your pen and paper, and let's dive in! Finding New Ideas Let's jump into the diverse methods you can employ to rejuvenate your thought process and stimulate your imagination. These strategies are designed to shake up your usual routines by offering new perspectives. The goal is not only to inspire fresh ideas but also to revolutionize how you approach creativity in your everyday life. 1) Mine your old ideas: Mining your old ideas not only includes flipping through old journal entries or project archives but also involves revisiting past conversations, failed projects, or ideas that sparked your interest but couldn't see the light of day due to various constraints. Sometimes the missing link in those ideas was the lack of a particular skill or resource at that time, which you might have acquired now. Try to view your old ideas with a new lens. Consider the changes in the environment, technology, or even your own perspective that could give these ideas a new life. Has there been a shift in market demands? Have new tools become available that could overcome previous obstacles? How has your own view evolved over time? Moreover, it's essential to remember that creativity is not a linear process. An idea that seemed irrelevant or impossible in the past could perfectly fit into a new context. This practice of revisiting and revamping your old ideas is like a treasure hunt where you're not only searching for gold but also refining it to create something valuable in the present. With this approach, you're not starting from a blank slate, but you're building on a foundation already laid, albeit in the past. So, flip through those old notebooks, revisit those brainstorming sessions, and give your past ideas a chance to infuse new life into your present creativity. 2) Think Add-Ons Instead of always striving for brand-new ideas, why not improve on what already exists? Building upon an existing idea is often less daunting than creating something completely new. An “add-on” approach encourages critical evaluation and improvement of established concepts. The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity; just take what's already there and make it better. This could be an existing product, a service, or a process in your daily life or work that you believe could be enhanced. Consider technology upgrades as an example. Each new smartphone or software application version is fundamentally an add-on, a series of improvements and enhancements to an existing product. These updates are based on customer feedback, market trends, and technological advancements, demonstrating that you don’t always need to reinvent the wheel to innovate. This strategy requires an analytical mindset and a focus on problem-solving. Begin by identifying a product, service, or process you believe has room for improvement. Then, brainstorm ways in which it could be enhanced. Remember, even small changes can have a significant impact, leading to a breakthrough idea. 3) Think macro: Thinking macro is about shifting your focus from the minute details and considering the overall impact or implications. This approach requires you to constantly question and analyze the broader implications of your idea, its potential evolution, and how it fits into a larger context or ecosystem. For instance, if you were developing a sustainable product, you wouldn't just consider the immediate benefits, such as reducing waste or using recycled materials. You'd need to consider the long-term effects on the environment, and the market shifts towards sustainability, how your product could influence consumer behavior, and how it could drive industry standards towards more eco-friendly practices. This broad, macro view can open up new avenues for creativity. It enables you to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities on a larger scale, which could lead to bigger and bolder ideas. It encourages you to think beyond the immediate scope of your project and consider how your idea could have a wider-reaching impact or influence. 4) Embrace unexpected learning: Embracing unexpected learning is about venturing into the unfamiliar and embracing the lessons that come with it. This approach exposes you to fresh perspectives, different cultures, unique skills, and a wealth of knowledge that may be completely unrelated to your current project or area of expertise. However, it's precisely this novelty that can spark innovative ideas. Take, for instance, the act of learning a new language. It's not just about memorizing vocabulary and grammar rules. It involves understanding the culture, the nuances, and the thought processes of those who speak that language. This new understanding can provide a fresh lens through which to view your projects, perhaps leading to a creative breakthrough. Similarly, reading a book outside your usual genre can expose you to different writing styles, themes, and perspectives that you may have never considered before. These new insights could offer unique angles or solutions to the challenges you're facing in your creative process. Moreover, unexpected learning can come from less formal avenues. Even watching a documentary, attending a local event, or having a conversation with a stranger can offer unexpected insights and inspiration. The key to embracing unexpected learning is to remain open-minded and curious. It's about stepping out of your comfort zone and being receptive to new experiences and knowledge, regardless of how relevant they may seem at first. This mindset can enrich your understanding, broaden your horizons, and, ultimately, fuel your creativity. So, make it a habit to learn something new and unexpected regularly, and watch as your creativity flourishes. 5) Reverse brainstorming: Reverse brainstorming is a creative problem-solving technique that encourages you to challenge conventional thinking and approach problems differently. This method is especially useful when traditional brainstorming techniques fail to generate novel solutions or when you are stuck in a rut of typical, predictable thinking patterns. In reverse brainstorming, you first pose the problem in reverse. For instance, if your original problem was, “How can we improve customer service?” you might ask, “How could we make our customer service worse?” This reversal can dislodge habitual thinking, allowing for a more unrestricted flow of ideas. The next step involves listing as many responses as possible, no matter how absurd or improbable they might seem. This phase is about quantity over quality, promoting free thought and encouraging out-of-the-box thinking. It's important that during this phase, judgment is suspended, and every idea is accepted. Finally, you take these “reverse solutions” and flip them back into solutions for the original problem. This might involve directly contradicting the reverse solution or simply using it as a springboard to inspire new, constructive ideas. For example, if one of your “worsening” ideas was “make customers wait a long time to get help,” a corresponding solution could be “implement a live chat feature on our website to provide immediate assistance.” By flipping the problem on its head, reverse brainstorming can help you uncover unique solutions you might otherwise overlook. This technique broadens your creative thinking and offers a fun and interesting twist to problem-solving sessions. 6) Brainwriting: Brainwriting encourages individual ideation and creativity by allowing participants to express their ideas in writing rather than verbalizing them. This method can be particularly advantageous in diverse groups where some individuals may be more reserved or less comfortable sharing ideas out loud. In a brainwriting session, each participant starts with a sheet of paper and writes down their ideas related to the problem or topic. The sheets are passed to the next person, usually a few minutes after a predetermined time. Each participant then reads the ideas on the new sheet they receive and uses them as inspiration to generate more ideas, which they then add to the sheet. This process continues until all participants have had the chance to contribute to each sheet. Brainwriting fosters a non-judgmental environment where all ideas are valued, and there's no fear of instant criticism. This can often result in a wider variety of ideas, as participants are free to jot down even the most outlandish thoughts without fear of immediate critique. It also ensures that everyone's voice is equally heard, regardless of their communication style, personality type, or role in the organization. Moreover, brainwriting can lead to a snowball effect of creativity, as each participant's ideas can inspire and build upon others. This cumulative process can lead to innovative solutions that might not emerge in a traditional brainstorming session. 7) Using Metaphors: Metaphors are a powerful tool for enhancing creativity. By likening one thing to another, metaphors allow us to see connections and relationships that we might otherwise miss. Consider, for example, the challenge of improving a company's workflow. Instead of viewing it through the traditional lens of processes and systems, imagine it as a river. The inputs are the river's source, the departments or stages are the various twists and turns, and the output is the sea. This metaphor might prompt questions like: Where is the river flowing smoothly? Where are there blockages or slow points? How can we increase the flow rate? Such a perspective can inspire innovative solutions such as removing unnecessary steps (clearing blockages) or improving communication (enhancing the flow). Using metaphors can also help in communicating complex ideas in a relatable way. For instance, describing a computer's processor as a “brain” can make it more comprehensible to non-tech-savvy individuals. However, while metaphors can open doors to creativity, it's important to use them selectively. Overuse or misuse of metaphors can lead to confusion rather than clarity. Like any other creative tool, their effectiveness lies in their appropriate and thoughtful application. 8) Mindfulness: When we practice mindfulness, we tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future. This heightened awareness can enhance our understanding, allowing us to see familiar things in a new light, thereby sparking innovative ideas. Often, our minds are cluttered with thoughts and concerns that distract us from the present moment. By practicing mindfulness, we can learn to quiet these distractions and increase our mental clarity, making room for creativity to flourish. Moreover, mindfulness can help us manage stress and improve our overall emotional well-being, creating a healthier mental environment for creativity. It enables us to gain insights into our emotions, helping us understand how they can influence our thinking processes. By recognizing these patterns, we can create mental space for innovative thinking. 9) Embracing Limitations: Often, constraints are viewed as obstacles, but in the creative process, they can serve as catalysts for innovation. When faced with restrictions, our brains are compelled to think differently, push boundaries, and devise inventive solutions that wouldn't have come to light in a limitless environment. For instance, consider the scenario of designing a product with a limited budget. This financial constraint might inspire cost-efficient yet high-quality solutions, such as repurposing existing materials, leveraging inexpensive technologies, or simplifying the design for easy manufacturing. The result could be a product that meets budget requirements and offers customers unique value. Similarly, time constraints can compel us to prioritize tasks, streamline processes, and make effective decisions. Imagine launching a marketing campaign with only one week to plan. This tight timeframe pushes you to focus on the most impactful strategies, eliminate unnecessary details, and collaborate efficiently with your team. The result might be a powerful, condensed campaign that resonates with your audience more effectively than a drawn-out, complex strategy would have. Such constraints stimulate our problem-solving skills and encourage us to look at the situation from various angles, often leading to innovative outcomes. Embracing limitations, therefore, is not about compromising on quality or ambition. Instead, it's about harnessing the power of constraints to spur creativity and innovation. 10) Free Writing: Free writing is a liberating practice that encourages the spontaneous expression of thoughts without interrupting self-editing. It can be a powerful creative catalyst, allowing ideas to flow uninhibited, frequently leading to unexpected connections and insights. In free writing, you let your thoughts pour out onto the page or screen, disregarding the traditional grammar, punctuation, and spelling rules. The goal is to maintain a steady stream of consciousness, moving your pen or fingers for a set period, usually around 10 to 15 minutes, without any pause. This process can serve as a creative warm-up, clearing the mind of clutter and sparking the imagination. It can help unclog mental blocks and alleviate the pressures of producing perfect, polished content. More importantly, free writing can lead you to explore ideas and concepts you might otherwise overlook, providing a fertile ground for innovation. Bear in mind, though, that this technique is not about producing a ready-to-use piece of writing. Instead, it's about exploration and discovery. Once the session is over, you can review the text for any emerging themes, intriguing ideas, or unique perspectives that could serve as seeds for your creative projects. In essence, free writing invites your thoughts to roam freely. It doesn't matter where they wander or how they're articulated. What matters is the act of writing unrestrainedly, letting ideas merge, collide, and evolve in their own unique way. Incorporating this practice into your creative routine can be a transformative step towards fostering an innovative mindset. Conclusion: In pursuit of creativity, these ten strategies form a powerful toolkit to rekindle creativity. These tools invite us to redefine our perceptions, to see not just with our eyes but with our minds, exploring the world in novel ways. They encourage us to delve deep within ourselves, to introspect, to harness the power of constraints, and to let our thoughts flow freely. They remind us of the raw power of our minds and that creativity isn't a finite resource but a renewable reservoir of ideas ready to be tapped into. Incorporating these strategies into your creativity toolbox can help you find new ideas and explore new areas of your imagination. To learn about finding new ideas, listen to this week's show: 10 Ways to Find New Ideas.  .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postImageUrl , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:visited , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active { border:0!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Have you ever found yourself stuck in a creative rut, unable to develop fresh ideas? Or maybe you struggle to find inspiration for a new project or task. It can be frustrating and discouraging, but you're not alone. It's easy to fall into a routine and rely on the same old ways to find ideas, but we limit our creative potential by doing so.</p> <p></p> <p>In this post, we will explore ten uncommon and non-obvious ways to <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">spark your creativity</a> and find new ideas. These techniques can serve as a starting point to get you out of your comfort zone and help you find new ideas.</p> <p>So, grab your pen and paper, and let's dive in!</p> <h2><b>Finding New Ideas</b></h2> <p>Let's jump into the diverse methods you can employ to rejuvenate your thought process and stimulate your imagination. These strategies are designed to shake up your usual routines by offering new perspectives. The goal is not only to inspire fresh ideas but also to revolutionize how you approach creativity in your everyday life.</p> <h3><b>1) Mine your old ideas:</b></h3> <p>Mining your <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/innovation-from-repurposing-s11-ep7/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">old ideas</a> not only includes flipping through old journal entries or project archives but also involves revisiting past conversations, failed projects, or ideas that sparked your interest but couldn't see the light of day due to various constraints. Sometimes the missing link in those ideas was the lack of a particular skill or resource at that time, which you might have acquired now.</p> <p>Try to view your old ideas with a new lens. Consider the changes in the environment, technology, or even your own perspective that could give these ideas a new life. Has there been a shift in market demands? Have new tools become available that could overcome previous obstacles? How has your own view evolved over time?</p> <p>Moreover, it's essential to remember that creativity is not a linear process. An idea that seemed irrelevant or impossible in the past could perfectly fit into a new context. This practice of revisiting and revamping your old ideas is like a treasure hunt where you're not only searching for gold but also refining it to create something valuable in the present. With this approach, you're not starting from a blank slate, but you're building on a foundation already laid, albeit in the past. So, flip through those old notebooks, revisit those brainstorming sessions, and give your past ideas a chance to infuse new life into your present creativity.</p> <h3><b>2) Think Add-Ons</b></h3> <p>Instead of always striving for brand-new ideas, why not improve on what already exists?</p> <p>Building upon an existing idea is often less daunting than creating something completely new. An “add-on” approach encourages critical evaluation and improvement of established concepts. The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity; just take what's already there and make it better. This could be an existing product, a service, or a process in your daily life or work that you believe could be enhanced.</p> <p>Consider technology upgrades as an example. Each new smartphone or software application version is fundamentally an add-on, a series of improvements and enhancements to an existing product. These updates are based on customer feedback, market trends, and technological advancements, demonstrating that you don’t always need to reinvent the wheel to innovate.</p> <p>This strategy requires an analytical mindset and a focus on problem-solving. Begin by identifying a product, service, or process you believe has room for improvement. Then, brainstorm ways in which it could be enhanced. Remember, even small changes can have a significant impact, leading to a breakthrough idea.</p> <h3><b>3) Think macro:</b></h3> <p>Thinking macro is about shifting your focus from the minute details and considering the overall impact or implications. This approach requires you to constantly question and analyze the broader implications of your idea, its potential evolution, and how it fits into a larger context or ecosystem.</p> <p>For instance, if you were developing a sustainable product, you wouldn't just consider the immediate benefits, such as reducing waste or using recycled materials. You'd need to consider the long-term effects on the environment, and the market shifts towards sustainability, how your product could influence consumer behavior, and how it could drive industry standards towards more eco-friendly practices.</p> <p>This broad, macro view can open up new avenues for creativity. It enables you to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities on a larger scale, which could lead to bigger and bolder ideas. It encourages you to think beyond the immediate scope of your project and consider how your idea could have a wider-reaching impact or influence.</p> <h3><b>4) Embrace unexpected learning:</b></h3> <p>Embracing unexpected learning is about venturing into the unfamiliar and embracing the lessons that come with it. This approach exposes you to fresh perspectives, different cultures, unique skills, and a wealth of knowledge that may be completely unrelated to your current project or area of expertise. However, it's precisely this novelty that can spark innovative ideas.</p> <p>Take, for instance, the act of learning a new language. It's not just about memorizing vocabulary and grammar rules. It involves understanding the culture, the nuances, and the thought processes of those who speak that language. This new understanding can provide a fresh lens through which to view your projects, perhaps leading to a creative breakthrough.</p> <p>Similarly, reading a book outside your usual genre can expose you to different writing styles, themes, and perspectives that you may have never considered before. These new insights could offer unique angles or solutions to the challenges you're facing in your creative process.</p> <p>Moreover, unexpected learning can come from less formal avenues. Even watching a documentary, attending a local event, or having a conversation with a stranger can offer unexpected insights and inspiration.</p> <p>The key to embracing unexpected learning is to remain open-minded and curious. It's about stepping out of your comfort zone and being receptive to new experiences and knowledge, regardless of how relevant they may seem at first. This mindset can enrich your understanding, broaden your horizons, and, ultimately, fuel your creativity. So, make it a habit to learn something new and unexpected regularly, and watch as your creativity flourishes.</p> <h3><b>5) Reverse brainstorming:</b></h3> <p>Reverse brainstorming is a creative problem-solving technique that encourages you to challenge conventional thinking and approach problems differently. This method is especially useful when traditional brainstorming techniques fail to generate novel solutions or when you are stuck in a rut of typical, predictable thinking patterns.</p> <p>In reverse brainstorming, you first pose the problem in reverse. For instance, if your original problem was, “How can we improve customer service?” you might ask, “How could we make our customer service worse?” This reversal can dislodge habitual thinking, allowing for a more unrestricted flow of ideas.</p> <p>The next step involves listing as many responses as possible, no matter how absurd or improbable they might seem. This phase is about quantity over quality, promoting free thought and encouraging out-of-the-box thinking. It's important that during this phase, judgment is suspended, and every idea is accepted.</p> <p>Finally, you take these “reverse solutions” and flip them back into solutions for the original problem. This might involve directly contradicting the reverse solution or simply using it as a springboard to inspire new, constructive ideas.</p> <p>For example, if one of your “worsening” ideas was “make customers wait a long time to get help,” a corresponding solution could be “implement a live chat feature on our website to provide immediate assistance.”</p> <p>By flipping the problem on its head, reverse brainstorming can help you uncover unique solutions you might otherwise overlook. This technique broadens your creative thinking and offers a fun and interesting twist to problem-solving sessions.</p> <h3><b>6) Brainwriting:</b></h3> <p>Brainwriting encourages individual ideation and creativity by allowing participants to express their ideas in writing rather than verbalizing them. This method can be particularly advantageous in diverse groups where some individuals may be more reserved or less comfortable sharing ideas out loud.</p> <p>In a brainwriting session, each participant starts with a sheet of paper and writes down their ideas related to the problem or topic. The sheets are passed to the next person, usually a few minutes after a predetermined time. Each participant then reads the ideas on the new sheet they receive and uses them as inspiration to generate more ideas, which they then add to the sheet. This process continues until all participants have had the chance to contribute to each sheet.</p> <p>Brainwriting fosters a non-judgmental environment where all ideas are valued, and there's no fear of instant criticism. This can often result in a wider variety of ideas, as participants are free to jot down even the most outlandish thoughts without fear of immediate critique. It also ensures that everyone's voice is equally heard, regardless of their communication style, personality type, or role in the organization.</p> <p>Moreover, brainwriting can lead to a snowball effect of creativity, as each participant's ideas can inspire and build upon others. This cumulative process can lead to innovative solutions that might not emerge in a traditional brainstorming session.</p> <h3><b>7) Using Metaphors:</b></h3> <p>Metaphors are a powerful tool for enhancing creativity. By likening one thing to another, metaphors allow us to see connections and relationships that we might otherwise miss.</p> <p>Consider, for example, the challenge of improving a company's workflow. Instead of viewing it through the traditional lens of processes and systems, imagine it as a river. The inputs are the river's source, the departments or stages are the various twists and turns, and the output is the sea. This metaphor might prompt questions like: Where is the river flowing smoothly? Where are there blockages or slow points? How can we increase the flow rate? Such a perspective can inspire innovative solutions such as removing unnecessary steps (clearing blockages) or improving communication (enhancing the flow).</p> <p>Using metaphors can also help in communicating complex ideas in a relatable way. For instance, describing a computer's processor as a “brain” can make it more comprehensible to non-tech-savvy individuals.</p> <p>However, while metaphors can open doors to creativity, it's important to use them selectively. Overuse or misuse of metaphors can lead to confusion rather than clarity. Like any other creative tool, their effectiveness lies in their appropriate and thoughtful application.</p> <h3><b>8) Mindfulness:</b></h3> <p>When we practice mindfulness, we tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future. This heightened awareness can enhance our understanding, allowing us to see familiar things in a new light, thereby sparking innovative ideas.</p> <p>Often, our minds are cluttered with thoughts and concerns that distract us from the present moment. By practicing mindfulness, we can learn to quiet these distractions and increase our mental clarity, making room for creativity to flourish.</p> <p>Moreover, mindfulness can help us manage stress and improve our overall emotional well-being, creating a healthier mental environment for creativity. It enables us to gain insights into our emotions, helping us understand how they can influence our thinking processes. By recognizing these patterns, we can create mental space for innovative thinking.</p> <h3><b>9) Embracing Limitations:</b></h3> <p>Often, constraints are viewed as obstacles, but in the creative process, they can serve as catalysts for innovation. When faced with restrictions, our brains are compelled to think differently, push boundaries, and devise inventive solutions that wouldn't have come to light in a limitless environment.</p> <p>For instance, consider the scenario of designing a product with a limited budget. This financial constraint might inspire cost-efficient yet high-quality solutions, such as repurposing existing materials, leveraging inexpensive technologies, or simplifying the design for easy manufacturing. The result could be a product that meets budget requirements and offers customers unique value.</p> <p>Similarly, time constraints can compel us to prioritize tasks, streamline processes, and make effective decisions. Imagine launching a marketing campaign with only one week to plan. This tight timeframe pushes you to focus on the most impactful strategies, eliminate unnecessary details, and collaborate efficiently with your team. The result might be a powerful, condensed campaign that resonates with your audience more effectively than a drawn-out, complex strategy would have.</p> <p>Such constraints stimulate our problem-solving skills and encourage us to look at the situation from various angles, often leading to innovative outcomes. Embracing limitations, therefore, is not about compromising on quality or ambition. Instead, it's about harnessing the power of constraints to spur creativity and innovation.</p> <h3><b>10) Free Writing:</b></h3> <p>Free writing is a liberating practice that encourages the spontaneous expression of thoughts without interrupting self-editing. It can be a powerful creative catalyst, allowing ideas to flow uninhibited, frequently leading to unexpected connections and insights.</p> <p>In free writing, you let your thoughts pour out onto the page or screen, disregarding the traditional grammar, punctuation, and spelling rules. The goal is to maintain a steady stream of consciousness, moving your pen or fingers for a set period, usually around 10 to 15 minutes, without any pause.</p> <p>This process can serve as a creative warm-up, clearing the mind of clutter and sparking the imagination. It can help unclog mental blocks and alleviate the pressures of producing perfect, polished content. More importantly, free writing can lead you to explore ideas and concepts you might otherwise overlook, providing a fertile ground for innovation.</p> <p>Bear in mind, though, that this technique is not about producing a ready-to-use piece of writing. Instead, it's about exploration and discovery. Once the session is over, you can review the text for any emerging themes, intriguing ideas, or unique perspectives that could serve as seeds for your creative projects.</p> <p>In essence, free writing invites your thoughts to roam freely. It doesn't matter where they wander or how they're articulated. What matters is the act of writing unrestrainedly, letting ideas merge, collide, and evolve in their own unique way. Incorporating this practice into your creative routine can be a transformative step towards fostering an innovative mindset.</p> <h2><b>Conclusion:</b></h2> <p>In pursuit of creativity, these ten strategies form a powerful toolkit to rekindle creativity. These tools invite us to redefine our perceptions, to see not just with our eyes but with our minds, exploring the world in novel ways. They encourage us to delve deep within ourselves, to introspect, to harness the power of constraints, and to let our thoughts flow freely.</p> <p>They remind us of the raw power of our minds and that creativity isn't a finite resource but a renewable reservoir of ideas ready to be tapped into. Incorporating these strategies into your creativity toolbox can help you find new ideas and explore new areas of your imagination.</p> <p>To learn about finding new ideas, listen to this week's show: <em><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/10_ways_to_Find_new_Ideas.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>10 Ways to Find New Ideas</strong></a></em>.</p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postImageUrl , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:visited , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active { border:0!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

10 Ways to Find New Ideas

You've probably heard the saying that ‘Creativity is a muscle.' Like your biceps or triceps, your creative mind needs regular exercise to stay in shape. What exercises will let you build your creative muscle? How do you turn these creativity exercises into a habit that is a routine part of your daily life?  For many of us, developing creativity habits can seem overwhelming. Starting Small and Simple Where do you even begin? Research has shown that starting small is the key to creating sustainable habits. Renowned psychologist B.J. Fogg, for example, emphasizes the concept of “Tiny Habits,” suggesting that an individual should start with behavior that's easy to do and can be accomplished in less than 30 seconds. This could be as simple as sketching a single line on paper or writing one sentence in a journal. James Clear, author of “Atomic Habits,” recommends an approach of 1% improvement each day. Clear suggests that success is the product of daily habits—not a once-in-a-lifetime transformation. So rather than trying to write a novel in a day, aim to write one paragraph. Over time, these small increments can add up to substantial progress. Another best practice is to anchor your new creative habit to an existing routine—this is known as habit stacking. For example, if you already have a routine of having a cup of coffee every morning, add a few minutes of your chosen creative habit to this routine. And finally, make sure to reward yourself. Positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator in habit formation. So after each successful day of practicing your creative habit, allow yourself a small reward. Over time, this creates a positive association with your new habit, making you more likely to stick with it. The goal isn't to do something creative once and forget about it. The goal is to incorporate creativity into your daily life naturally and sustainably. And with these research-backed strategies, that goal is well within reach. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither are habits. It's not about making massive changes overnight but taking small steps consistently. Habits to Cultivate Creativity The following are a few habits that can fan the flames of your creativity and help you tap into your innate inventive spirit. This is not an exhaustive list but merely a starting point. As you embark on building creative habits, you may find others that work better for you. Don't feel confined by this list—feel free to add, modify, and explore other practices that spark your creative energies. The most effective habits are the ones that resonate with you and your unique creative process. Here are some habits you might consider: Daily Journaling: Daily Journaling can genuinely be a transformative habit. It serves as a personal canvas where you can paint your thoughts, emotions, and ideas freely and without restraint. This practice declutters the mind and fuels creativity by helping you explore different trains of thought and identify patterns over time. Moreover, daily journaling can be adapted according to your preferences. Some individuals prefer traditional narrative journaling, while others might opt for bullet journals, sketching, or digital journaling. The form it takes isn't as important as consistently putting your thoughts on paper. Also, journaling can act as an incubator for your ideas. For instance, you might jot down a passing thought or a spark of an idea in your journal and then revisit it later to develop it further. This practice especially benefits creative people who need an outlet to capture their flowing ideas. The key to journaling is not to censor yourself. This is your private space for exploration, reflection, and creativity. So let your mind wander, let your pen flow, and you might be surprised at the innovation and creativity that emerge from the pages of your journal. Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness practices have gained prominence as powerful tools to nurture creativity. They involve focusing on the present moment, accepting it without judgment, and developing a deeper awareness of your surroundings and internal experiences. This increased sensitivity and openness to the present can spark new insights and ideas, enriching your creative output. Meditation, one of the most common mindfulness practices, can be particularly beneficial. Regular meditation sessions can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and promote mental clarity—all of which create a conducive environment for creativity. Consider starting with just a few minutes of meditation each day, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable. Sit in a quiet, comfortable place, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. When your mind wanders—and it will—gently bring it back to your breath. This practice of returning to the moment can strengthen your ability to focus, a critical skill in creative endeavors. Mindful walking is another mindfulness practice you might try. This involves focusing on the sensation of walking, the feeling of your feet touching the ground, and the rhythm of your footsteps. This practice can be an effective way to clear your head and foster a state of relaxed alertness that can lead to creative breakthroughs. Just like any other habit, mindfulness requires consistency and practice. But with time, you can cultivate a more mindful approach to life that opens up new pathways for creative thinking. Curiosity Feeding: Curiosity feeding is about intentionally seeking out new knowledge and experiences. It's a habit that can nurture creativity by broadening your perspective and providing fresh inspiration. Each day, make a conscious effort to learn something new. This can be as simple as reading an interesting article, listening to a podcast, or diving into a new book. You might watch a documentary, learn a new word, or even converse with a stranger. The key is to keep an open mind and embrace the unfamiliar. This can lead you to stumble upon unexpected ideas and connections, fueling your creativity. Engaging with a diverse range of topics also helps to build a rich reservoir of knowledge that can be drawn upon during the creative process. Moreover, curiosity feeding encourages you to ask questions and challenge assumptions—an essential aspect of creative thinking. By nurturing your curiosity, you foster a mindset of continuous learning and exploration conducive to creativity. The aim is not just to amass knowledge but to stimulate thought and inspire innovation. So be curious, be open, and immerse yourself in the joy of discovering something new every day. Idea Generation: Idea Generation, often known as brainstorming, is about unleashing your mind to explore different possibilities and avenues. It's about breaking free from the constraints of logical thinking and embracing wild and crazy ideas. This practice stimulates your creative muscles and opens up a treasure trove of potential innovations. Here are a few strategies to make the most of your idea-generation sessions. Firstly, create a conducive environment. Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you can think without distractions. Some people find that certain settings, like a park or a café, stimulate their creativity more than others. Experiment and find what works best for you. Secondly, set a timer. Giving yourself a specific timeframe, like 15 minutes, can create a sense of urgency that pushes your brain to think more creatively. Thirdly, remember that there are no bad ideas during brainstorming. The goal is to generate as many ideas as possible, not to judge them. Write down everything that comes to your mind, no matter how absurd or impractical. This encourages free thinking and can often lead you down unexpected paths to brainstorm innovative ideas. Lastly, do it often. The more frequently you brainstorm, the more readily your brain can generate new ideas. The purpose of idea generation is not only to come up with solutions to specific problems but also to nurture a mindset of creativity and innovation. Creative Exercises: Creative exercises are vital activities that stimulate your brain, encouraging out-of-the-box thinking and idea generation. They take various forms and can be tailored to individual preferences and interests. One popular creative exercise is solving puzzles. Whether it's a jigsaw, crossword, or Rubik's cube, puzzles force you to think strategically and look for patterns. They challenge your brain to work in ways it normally wouldn't, fostering creativity. Artistic endeavors such as painting, drawing, or sculpting are also great creative exercises. They allow you to express yourself freely and create something unique from your imagination. Even if you don't consider yourself an artist, creating art can stimulate creative thinking. Cooking a new recipe is another form of creative exercise. It's about mixing ingredients in different ways to create unique flavors. Experimenting with cooking methods can also lead to discoveries in the kitchen, like how experimenting with ideas can lead to innovation. Writing exercises, like poetry or storytelling, can also stimulate creativity. They encourage you to play with words, conjuring compelling narratives from your imagination. The goal of these exercises isn't necessarily to create a masterpiece but to spark creativity and have fun in the process. Next Steps To Creating Habits The next step is commitment. Commit to doing one of these exercises every day for 30 days. Why 30 days? Because science tells us that's about how long repeated actions become a habit. Some things to keep in mind:  Set Clear Goals: Begin by setting a clear and achievable goal. It should be something that you can realistically accomplish within the 30-day time frame. For example, if you want to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine, your goal could be to meditate for 10 minutes each day. Start Small: It's crucial to start with small, manageable tasks. If your goal is to read a book a week, you might start by reading a few pages each day and gradually increase your reading time. Starting small makes the habit easier to adopt and less overwhelming. Consistency is Key: Consistency is the cornerstone of habit formation. Stick to your routine every day for 30 days. If you aim to engage in creative exercises daily, ensure you set aside time each day for this activity, whether in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening. Be Patient and Persistent: It takes time to form a habit. You might encounter obstacles or have off days, but it's important not to get disheartened. Persistence is key, and consistently repeating the activity leads to habit formation. Remember, the goal isn't perfection. It's consistency. There will be days when it feels harder to engage your creativity. That's okay. What matters is showing up, day in and day out. Stay Positive: Finally, staying positive and maintaining a growth mindset is essential. Each day is an opportunity to learn and grow. Celebrate your successes, even the small ones, and be kind to yourself when you feel discouraged or frustrated. Tell Someone: Being held accountable by having someone checking in on you can be motivating. Find an accountability partner who will support and encourage your endeavors.  Creating a creative habit isn't easy, but it is achievable with these strategies. With consistency and dedication, it won't be long before you experience the reward of a more creative life. Benefits of Cultivating a Creativity Habit People who cultivate a creative habit experience numerous benefits. It opens up new possibilities and expands your horizons, and creativity can also improve physical and mental well-being. Here are some of the most prominent advantages associated with nurturing a creative mindset:  Improved Problem Solving: Creativity can help you develop more efficient solutions to problems. This is because it encourages divergent thinking, which involves considering multiple perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. Heightened Focus and Concentration: Creative activities are often engaging and stimulating, positively affecting your focus and concentration levels. Working on creative problems or projects can help you stay focused for extended periods. Higher Levels of Self-Esteem &amp; Confidence: Taking risks and engaging in creative activities can boost your self-esteem, giving you a sense of accomplishment and pride. This increased confidence can have far-reaching implications, improving personal and professional relationships. Increased Happiness &amp; Satisfaction: Research has shown that engaging in creative activities can improve our happiness levels and overall life satisfaction. This is because creativity helps us to express ourselves and get more in touch with our inner selves.  Wrapping Up: The Power of Cultivating Creativity We can all significantly enhance our creativity through dedication and commitment. We can awaken our inherent creative forces by making creativity exercises a part of our daily routine. It's not about creating masterpieces daily but about sparking creative energy within us. Whether it's solving puzzles, painting, or even experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, these activities stimulate our brains in unique ways, fostering creativity. The journey of cultivating a creative habit doesn't have to be solitary. Sharing this journey with an accountability partner can provide mutual encouragement and motivation. Regardless of the obstacles, be patient and persistent because every step in this journey brings us closer to reaping the numerous benefits of a creative mindset, from improved problem-solving skills and heightened focus to increased self-esteem and happiness. The journey to enhanced creativity might seem long and challenging but worthwhile. So, dare to commit to this transformative journey, for the destination promises an enriched life overflowing with creativity. It's time you unleashed your inner Da Vinci! To learn about cultivating a creativity habit, listen to this week's show: How to Cultivate a Creativity Habit.  .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>You've probably heard the saying that ‘Creativity is a muscle.' Like your biceps or triceps, your creative mind needs regular exercise to stay in shape. What exercises will let you build your creative muscle? How do you turn these creativity exercises into a habit that is a routine part of your daily life?</p> <p></p> <p>For many of us, developing creativity habits can seem overwhelming.</p> <h2>Starting Small and Simple</h2> <p>Where do you even begin?</p> <p>Research has shown that starting small is the key to creating sustainable habits. Renowned psychologist B.J. Fogg, for example, emphasizes the concept of “Tiny Habits,” suggesting that an individual should start with behavior that's easy to do and can be accomplished in less than 30 seconds. This could be as simple as sketching a single line on paper or writing one sentence in a journal.</p> <p>James Clear, author of “Atomic Habits,” recommends an approach of 1% improvement each day. Clear suggests that success is the product of daily habits—not a once-in-a-lifetime transformation. So rather than trying to write a novel in a day, aim to write one paragraph. Over time, these small increments can add up to substantial progress.</p> <p>Another best practice is to anchor your new creative habit to an existing routine—this is known as habit stacking. For example, if you already have a routine of having a cup of coffee every morning, add a few minutes of your chosen creative habit to this routine.</p> <p>And finally, make sure to reward yourself. Positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator in habit formation. So after each successful day of practicing your creative habit, allow yourself a small reward. Over time, this creates a positive association with your new habit, making you more likely to stick with it.</p> <p>The goal isn't to do something creative once and forget about it. The goal is to incorporate creativity into your daily life naturally and sustainably. And with these research-backed strategies, that goal is well within reach.</p> <p>Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither are habits. It's not about making massive changes overnight but taking small steps consistently.</p> <h2>Habits to Cultivate Creativity</h2> <p>The following are a few habits that can fan the flames of your creativity and help you tap into your innate inventive spirit. This is not an exhaustive list but merely a starting point. As you embark on building creative habits, you may find others that work better for you. Don't feel confined by this list—feel free to add, modify, and explore other practices that spark your creative energies. The most effective habits are the ones that resonate with you and your unique creative process.</p> <p>Here are some habits you might consider:</p> <h2>Daily Journaling:</h2> <p>Daily Journaling can genuinely be a transformative habit. It serves as a personal canvas where you can paint your thoughts, emotions, and ideas freely and without restraint. This practice declutters the mind and fuels creativity by helping you explore different trains of thought and identify patterns over time.</p> <p>Moreover, daily journaling can be adapted according to your preferences. Some individuals prefer traditional narrative journaling, while others might opt for bullet journals, sketching, or digital journaling. The form it takes isn't as important as consistently putting your thoughts on paper.</p> <p>Also, journaling can act as an incubator for your ideas. For instance, you might jot down a passing thought or a spark of an idea in your journal and then revisit it later to develop it further. This practice especially benefits creative people who need an outlet to capture their flowing ideas.</p> <p>The key to journaling is not to censor yourself. This is your private space for exploration, reflection, and creativity. So let your mind wander, let your pen flow, and you might be surprised at the innovation and creativity that emerge from the pages of your journal.</p> <h2>Mindfulness Practices:</h2> <p><a href="https://theinnovators.network/the-power-of-mindful-innovation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mindfulness practices</a> have gained prominence as powerful tools to nurture creativity. They involve focusing on the present moment, accepting it without judgment, and developing a deeper awareness of your surroundings and internal experiences. This increased sensitivity and openness to the present can spark new insights and ideas, enriching your creative output.</p> <p>Meditation, one of the most common mindfulness practices, can be particularly beneficial. Regular meditation sessions can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and promote mental clarity—all of which create a conducive environment for creativity.</p> <p>Consider starting with just a few minutes of meditation each day, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable. Sit in a quiet, comfortable place, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. When your mind wanders—and it will—gently bring it back to your breath. This practice of returning to the moment can strengthen your ability to focus, a critical skill in creative endeavors.</p> <p>Mindful walking is another mindfulness practice you might try. This involves focusing on the sensation of walking, the feeling of your feet touching the ground, and the rhythm of your footsteps. This practice can be an effective way to clear your head and foster a state of relaxed alertness that can lead to creative breakthroughs.</p> <p>Just like any other habit, mindfulness requires consistency and practice. But with time, you can cultivate a more mindful approach to life that opens up new pathways for creative thinking.</p> <h2>Curiosity Feeding:</h2> <p>Curiosity feeding is about intentionally seeking out new knowledge and experiences. It's a habit that can nurture creativity by broadening your perspective and providing fresh inspiration. Each day, make a conscious effort to learn something new. This can be as simple as reading an interesting article, listening to a podcast, or diving into a new book. You might watch a documentary, learn a new word, or even converse with a stranger.</p> <p>The key is to keep an open mind and embrace the unfamiliar. This can lead you to stumble upon unexpected ideas and connections, fueling your creativity. Engaging with a diverse range of topics also helps to build a rich reservoir of knowledge that can be drawn upon during the creative process.</p> <p>Moreover, curiosity feeding encourages you to ask questions and challenge assumptions—an essential aspect of creative thinking. By nurturing your curiosity, you foster a mindset of continuous learning and exploration conducive to creativity.</p> <p>The aim is not just to amass knowledge but to stimulate thought and inspire innovation. So be curious, be open, and immerse yourself in the joy of discovering <a href="https://theinnovators.network/changing-the-default-the-secret-to-innovation-success/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">something new</a> every day.</p> <h2>Idea Generation:</h2> <p>Idea Generation, often known as brainstorming, is about unleashing your mind to explore different possibilities and avenues. It's about breaking free from the constraints of logical thinking and embracing wild and crazy ideas. This practice stimulates your creative muscles and opens up a treasure trove of <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/unlocking-your-creative-potential/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">potential innovations.</a></p> <p>Here are a few strategies to make the most of your idea-generation sessions.</p> <p>Firstly, create a <strong>conducive environment</strong>. Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you can think without distractions. Some people find that certain settings, like a park or a café, stimulate their creativity more than others. Experiment and find what works best for you.</p> <p>Secondly, <strong>set a timer</strong>. Giving yourself a specific timeframe, like 15 minutes, can create a sense of urgency that pushes your brain to think more creatively.</p> <p>Thirdly, remember that <strong>there are no bad ideas</strong> during brainstorming. The goal is to generate as many ideas as possible, not to judge them. Write down everything that comes to your mind, no matter how absurd or impractical. This encourages free thinking and can often lead you down unexpected paths to brainstorm innovative ideas.</p> <p>Lastly, <strong>do it often</strong>. The more frequently you brainstorm, the more readily your brain can generate new ideas.</p> <p>The purpose of idea generation is not only to come up with solutions to specific problems but also to nurture a mindset of creativity and innovation.</p> <h2>Creative Exercises:</h2> <p>Creative exercises are vital activities that stimulate your brain, encouraging <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/thinking-creatively-in-a-world-of-normality/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">out-of-the-box thinking</a> and idea generation. They take various forms and can be tailored to individual preferences and interests.</p> <p>One popular creative exercise is solving puzzles. Whether it's a jigsaw, crossword, or Rubik's cube, puzzles force you to think strategically and look for patterns. They challenge your brain to work in ways it normally wouldn't, fostering creativity.</p> <p>Artistic endeavors such as painting, drawing, or sculpting are also great creative exercises. They allow you to express yourself freely and create something unique from your imagination. Even if you don't consider yourself an artist, creating art can stimulate creative thinking.</p> <p>Cooking a new recipe is another form of creative exercise. It's about mixing ingredients in different ways to create unique flavors. Experimenting with cooking methods can also lead to discoveries in the kitchen, like how experimenting with ideas can lead to innovation.</p> <p>Writing exercises, like poetry or storytelling, can also stimulate creativity. They encourage you to play with words, conjuring compelling narratives from your imagination.</p> <p>The goal of these exercises isn't necessarily to create a masterpiece but to spark creativity and have fun in the process.</p> <h2>Next Steps To Creating Habits</h2> <p>The next step is commitment. Commit to doing one of these exercises every day for 30 days. Why 30 days? Because science tells us that's about how long repeated actions become a habit.</p> <p>Some things to keep in mind:</p> <ol> <li><strong>Set Clear Goals:</strong> Begin by setting a clear and achievable goal. It should be something that you can realistically accomplish within the 30-day time frame. For example, if you want to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine, your goal could be to meditate for 10 minutes each day.</li> <li><strong>Start Small:</strong> It's crucial to start with small, manageable tasks. If your goal is to read a book a week, you might start by reading a few pages each day and gradually increase your reading time. Starting small makes the habit easier to adopt and less overwhelming.</li> <li><strong>Consistency is Key:</strong> Consistency is the cornerstone of habit formation. Stick to your routine every day for 30 days. If you aim to engage in creative exercises daily, ensure you set aside time each day for this activity, whether in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening.</li> <li><strong>Be Patient and Persistent:</strong> It takes time to form a habit. You might encounter obstacles or have off days, but it's important not to get disheartened. Persistence is key, and consistently repeating the activity leads to habit formation. Remember, the goal isn't perfection. It's consistency. There will be days when it feels harder to engage your creativity. That's okay. What matters is showing up, day in and day out.</li> <li><strong>Stay Positive</strong>: Finally, staying positive and maintaining a growth mindset is essential. Each day is an opportunity to learn and grow. Celebrate your successes, even the small ones, and be kind to yourself when you feel discouraged or frustrated.</li> <li><strong>Tell Someone</strong>: Being held accountable by having someone checking in on you can be motivating. Find an accountability partner who will support and encourage your endeavors.</li> </ol> <p>Creating a creative habit isn't easy, but it is achievable with these strategies. With consistency and dedication, it won't be long before you experience the reward of a more creative life.</p> <h2>Benefits of Cultivating a Creativity Habit</h2> <p>People who cultivate a creative habit experience numerous benefits. It opens up new possibilities and expands your horizons, and creativity can also improve <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/boost-creativity-with-exercise/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">physical and mental well-being</a>. Here are some of the most prominent advantages associated with nurturing a creative mindset:</p> <ol> <li><strong>Improved Problem Solving</strong>: Creativity can help you develop more efficient solutions to problems. This is because it encourages <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/why-divergent-thinkers-will-always-win/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">divergent thinking</a>, which involves considering multiple perspectives and approaches to problem-solving.</li> <li><strong>Heightened Focus and Concentration</strong>: Creative activities are often engaging and stimulating, positively affecting your focus and concentration levels. Working on creative problems or projects can help you stay focused for extended periods.</li> <li><strong>Higher Levels of Self-Esteem &amp; Confidence</strong>: Taking risks and engaging in creative activities can boost your self-esteem, giving you a sense of accomplishment and pride. This increased confidence can have far-reaching implications, improving personal and professional relationships.</li> <li><strong>Increased Happiness &amp; Satisfaction</strong>: Research has shown that engaging in creative activities can improve our happiness levels and overall life satisfaction. This is because creativity helps us to express ourselves and get more in touch with our inner selves.</li> </ol> <h2>Wrapping Up: The Power of Cultivating Creativity</h2> <p>We can all significantly enhance our creativity through dedication and commitment. We can awaken our inherent creative forces by making creativity exercises a part of our daily routine. It's not about creating masterpieces daily but about sparking creative energy within us. Whether it's solving puzzles, painting, or even experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, these activities stimulate our brains in unique ways, fostering creativity.</p> <p>The journey of cultivating a creative habit doesn't have to be solitary. Sharing this journey with an accountability partner can provide mutual encouragement and motivation.</p> <p>Regardless of the obstacles, be patient and persistent because every step in this journey brings us closer to reaping the numerous benefits of a creative mindset, from improved problem-solving skills and heightened focus to increased self-esteem and happiness.</p> <p>The journey to enhanced creativity might seem long and challenging but worthwhile. So, dare to commit to this transformative journey, for the destination promises an enriched life overflowing with creativity.</p> <p>It's time you unleashed your inner Da Vinci!</p> <p>To learn about cultivating a creativity habit, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/How_to_Cultivate_a_Creativity_Habit.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to Cultivate a Creativity Habit</a></strong></em>.</p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

How to Cultivate a Creativity Habit

Hello, Innovators! Welcome back to another episode of the Killer Innovations podcast.  I am so happy to be back in the studio with you today, and I'm excited to give you an update on the show and myself. A few months ago, in February, I had to undergo open heart surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. The surgery was totally unexpected when we went to Florida for Christmas. I have a rare genetic cardiac condition, so I'm under Mayo's care. During my annual check-up, the test showed some issues, which turned a three-week visit into a four and half month stay. Unfortunately, the nine days I spent in the intensive care unit being intubated caused damage to my vocal cords, preventing me from recording new episodes — that is, until today. The damage to the vocal cords is why my voice may sound different. But the show must go on, and that's where the team that helps me with the show stepped in. While I've been out, Andrew, Kirk, and Ethan have been serving up the most popular shows from our rich 19-year archive. Since I couldn't record, I turned my attention to my writing, posting multiple times weekly to my blog at philmckinney.com. If you haven't checked it out lately, I encourage you to hop over. You will notice that all of my writing is now merged onto the Ghost platform that hosts the blog, making it easier for everyone to find the archive of my articles going back to 1996. To get back in front of the microphone, I've been meeting with vocal cord experts, including those specializing in performers and audio professionals. We looked at various options to determine what it would take to get my voice back to its pre-surgery level. The most important was letting the vocal cords rest. In addition, the specialists changed my diet to reduce the acid reflux, which has been scaring the vocal cords. Who knew? Now for some exciting news. I've been cleared to experiment with recording new shows to see how my vocal cords hold up. Andrew, our associate producer, has been investigating and testing AI tools that can be trained on my past shows, taking the scripts I write and recording the audio for me. This will allow us to deliver original content without over-stressing my vocal cords. In fact, the introduction you heard today was an actual recording of me from my mobile studio built into my bus parked in Port Angeles, Washington. This main segment you are listening to was recorded using one of the AI tools. Like my challenge to you, the podcast team needs to innovate, even in how we produce the show. What do you think? As for my health, I'm doing great. I've lost 35 pounds—though I wouldn't recommend bypass surgery as a weight loss program. My focus now is on my cardiac rehab and rebuilding my strength and stamina. This summer, I'm working from my bus parked in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, walking on the beach to get my steps in, and loving my Starlink broadband! Regarding the show, our team is working hard to rebuild the queue so we can release new original content on a more regular schedule. If we miss a few weeks, I apologize in advance. So, what is changing — and staying the same with the show? When the show was launched in 2005, the goal was to explore creativity, design, and innovation. Over the years, this podcast has grown to include a mix of interviews, solo episodes, and occasional co-hosts. This focus and format will not change, but the technology behind producing this show will continue to evolve. So, who are our listeners? Well, Killer Innovations attracts a broad spectrum of people. From tech aficionados to aspiring entrepreneurs, from top brass at leading tech and strategy firms to those just embarking on their career journey. My mission is to satisfy your curiosity about what it takes to be successful as an innovator, inventor, and creator and to equip you with the tools and insights needed to navigate the rapidly changing landscape. What can you expect from future episodes? Not much difference from what we've been doing in the past. We will continue to delve into innovations that are reshaping our lives—but don't stop there. We dig deeper to uncover the stories behind these breakthroughs. How did these innovators turn their initial ideas into tangible realities? What obstacles did they face and overcome? And crucially, how can you apply these insights to your own path? You may hear more of my experience from a 40-year career in inventing and launching innovations. What topics do you want to hear more about? What topics have you heard enough of? Let us know. Now, how can you help? We need supporters to help us cover our costs to produce the show. For 19 years, I've covered the costs out of my pocket with help from Eric and his team at Zoom, who have been a lead sponsor of the podcast for the last eight years. But our expenses have increased with the team stepping up while I have been out. If you are willing to support the show and the team, please consider becoming a financial supporter. Visit the blog at philmckinney.com and click on ‘Membership' at the top. Rest assured, none of the funding will go to me. It will go to the team and associated out-of-pocket costs. We are looking for $10,000 per month. Imagine this: you're sipping your morning coffee, earbuds in, listening to our show. You're learning new things, being entertained, and it feels like you're part of a community. That's the power of our podcast. But did you know it takes more than just a microphone and an interesting topic to keep that podcast coming to your ears week after week? It involves hours of research, editing, and production. Not to mention the cost of hosting and distributing each episode. What if you could help ensure this podcast's continuation while gaining exclusive perks? You can do just that for just $50 per year — about $1 per episode. Your financial support can make a significant difference in maintaining the quality and consistency of our content. Think of it as buying us a cup of coffee once a week as a thank-you for the content we provide. And in return, we'll continue to deliver the engaging and insightful episodes you look forward to every week. We need 2,400 financial sponsors to cover our show expenses. Are you ready to be one of them? Will you help us keep the conversation going? Remember, supporting us isn't just about helping cover costs. It's about investing in something you value and want to see thrive. It's about being part of a community that values knowledge, engagement, and entertainment. So, are you ready to step up and become a financial supporter of our podcast? Visit philmckinney.com and click ‘Membership.' Because every good story deserves to be told… and heard. That's it for today's episode. Thanks for your continued support. Remember, stay curious, stay innovative, and keep pushing the boundaries. To learn how you can help the show, listen to this week's show: Navigating Uncharted Territory with Innovation.  .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postImageUrl , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:visited , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active { border:0!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Hello, Innovators! Welcome back to another episode of the Killer Innovations podcast.</p> <p></p> <p>I am so happy to be back in the studio with you today, and I'm excited to give you an update on the show and myself.</p> <p>A few months ago, in February, I had to undergo open heart surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida.</p> <p>The surgery was totally unexpected when we went to Florida for Christmas. I have a rare genetic cardiac condition, so I'm under Mayo's care. During my annual check-up, the test showed some issues, which turned a three-week visit into a four and half month stay.</p> <p>Unfortunately, the nine days I spent in the intensive care unit being intubated caused damage to my vocal cords, preventing me from recording new episodes — that is, until today. The damage to the vocal cords is why my voice may sound different.</p> <p>But the show must go on, and that's where the team that helps me with the show stepped in. While I've been out, Andrew, Kirk, and Ethan have been serving up the <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/the-best-of-killer-innovations-creative-qualities/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">most popular shows</a> from our rich 19-year archive.</p> <p>Since I couldn't record, I turned my attention to my writing, posting multiple times weekly to my blog at <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">philmckinney.com</a>. If you haven't checked it out lately, I encourage you to hop over. You will notice that all of my writing is now merged onto the Ghost platform that hosts the blog, making it easier for everyone to find the archive of my articles going back to 1996.</p> <p>To get back in front of the microphone, I've been meeting with vocal cord experts, including those specializing in performers and audio professionals. We looked at various options to determine what it would take to get my voice back to its pre-surgery level. The most important was letting the vocal cords rest. In addition, the specialists changed my diet to reduce the acid reflux, which has been scaring the vocal cords. Who knew?</p> <p>Now for some exciting news. I've been cleared to experiment with recording new shows to see how my vocal cords hold up. Andrew, our associate producer, has been investigating and testing <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/human-creativity-and-ai/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AI tools</a> that can be trained on my past shows, taking the scripts I write and recording the audio for me. This will allow us to deliver original content without over-stressing my vocal cords.</p> <p>In fact, the introduction you heard today was an actual recording of me from my mobile studio built into my bus parked in Port Angeles, Washington. This main segment you are listening to was recorded using one of the AI tools.</p> <p>Like my challenge to you, the podcast team needs to innovate, even in how we produce the show. What do you think?</p> <p>As for my health, I'm doing great. I've lost 35 pounds—though I wouldn't recommend bypass surgery as a weight loss program. My focus now is on my cardiac rehab and rebuilding my strength and stamina. This summer, I'm working from my bus parked in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, walking on the beach to get my steps in, and loving my Starlink broadband!</p> <p>Regarding the show, our team is working hard to rebuild the queue so we can release new original content on a more regular schedule. If we miss a few weeks, I apologize in advance.</p> <p>So, what is changing — and staying the same with the show?</p> <p>When the show was launched in 2005, the goal was to explore creativity, design, and innovation. Over the years, this podcast has grown to include a mix of interviews, solo episodes, and occasional co-hosts. This focus and format will not change, but the technology behind producing this show will continue to evolve.</p> <p>So, who are our listeners? Well, <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Killer Innovations</a> attracts a broad spectrum of people. From tech aficionados to aspiring entrepreneurs, from top brass at leading tech and strategy firms to those just embarking on their career journey. My mission is to satisfy your curiosity about what it takes to be successful as an innovator, inventor, and creator and to equip you with the tools and insights needed to navigate the rapidly <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/change-caused-by-innovation-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">changing landscape</a>.</p> <p>What can you expect from future episodes? Not much difference from what we've been doing in the past. We will continue to delve into innovations that are reshaping our lives—but don't stop there. We dig deeper to uncover the stories behind these breakthroughs.</p> <p>How did these innovators turn their <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/ideas-are-not-innovations/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">initial ideas into tangible realities</a>? What obstacles did they face and overcome? And crucially, how can you apply these insights to your own path?</p> <p>You may hear more of my experience from a 40-year career in inventing and launching innovations.</p> <p>What topics do you want to hear more about? What topics have you heard enough of? Let us know.</p> <p>Now, how can you help?</p> <p>We need supporters to help us cover our costs to produce the show. For 19 years, I've covered the costs out of my pocket with help from Eric and his team at Zoom, who have been a lead sponsor of the podcast for the last eight years.</p> <p>But our expenses have increased with the team stepping up while I have been out. If you are willing to support the show and the team, please consider becoming a financial supporter.</p> <p>Visit the blog at <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">philmckinney.com</a> and click on ‘Membership' at the top. Rest assured, none of the funding will go to me. It will go to the team and associated out-of-pocket costs. We are looking for $10,000 per month.</p> <p>Imagine this: you're sipping your morning coffee, earbuds in, listening to our show. You're learning new things, being entertained, and it feels like you're part of a community. That's the power of our podcast.</p> <p>But did you know it takes more than just a microphone and an interesting topic to keep that podcast coming to your ears week after week? It involves hours of research, editing, and production. Not to mention the cost of hosting and distributing each episode.</p> <p>What if you could help ensure this podcast's continuation while gaining exclusive perks? You can do just that for just $50 per year — about $1 per episode. Your financial support can make a significant difference in maintaining the quality and consistency of our content.</p> <p>Think of it as buying us a cup of coffee once a week as a thank-you for the content we provide. And in return, we'll continue to deliver the engaging and insightful episodes you look forward to every week.</p> <p>We need 2,400 financial sponsors to cover our show expenses. Are you ready to be one of them? Will you help us keep the conversation going?</p> <p>Remember, supporting us isn't just about helping cover costs. It's about investing in something you value and want to see thrive. It's about being <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/innovation-communities/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">part of a community</a> that values knowledge, engagement, and entertainment.</p> <p>So, are you ready to step up and become a financial supporter of our podcast? Visit <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/six-practices-of-successful-innovators/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">philmckinney.com</a> and click ‘Membership.' Because every good story deserves to be told… and heard.</p> <p>That's it for today's episode. Thanks for your continued support. Remember, stay curious, stay innovative, and keep <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/breaking-down-barriers-to-innovation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pushing the boundaries</a>.</p> <p>To learn how you can help the show, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Navigating_Uncharted_Territory_with_Innovation.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Navigating Uncharted Territory with Innovation</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postImageUrl , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:visited , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active { border:0!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

Navigating Uncharted Territory with Innovation

Continuing our Best of Killer Innovation series, we look at David Su’s innovative solution to the problem of disposable and short-lived battery life and his tips for success that helped him start Atmosic.  Being connected has become an essential part of our daily lives. Wireless has made huge strides over the past two decades.  IoT is connecting our world in ways we would have never imagined.  With the growing demand for constant connectivity, one area that needs fine-tuning is battery life.  All these devices we use throughout the day require battery power. Today’s guest saw this as an opportunity.  David Su is CEO of Atmosic.  His company is innovating battery life.  Creating technologies to reduce battery usage, Atmosic develops solutions that keep things powered up. Stanford to Startup Much of David’s career has been in the wireless space.  With a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Stanford, David joined Atheros Communication in 1999 as its fifth employee.  David continued with Atheros as it grew and went public. He stayed on when Qualcomm acquired Atheros. After some years, David felt his time at Qualcomm had run its course.  He ventured into new areas.  With four former work colleagues, he started a new company. Atmosic’s Vision In the wireless world, battery power can be a boon and a bane.  Reliance on wireless means dependence on batteries for power. When batteries lose charge, things can come to a standstill.  Limited battery life also means a lot of batteries get thrown out – to the tune of three billion per year.  Two and a half years ago, David and fellow co-founders started Atmosic with this in mind.  David, Masoud Zargari, David Nakahira, Srinivas Pattamatta, and Manolis Terrovitis brainstormed.  They sought advice from experts in the field. Their vision began to coalesce – to keep connected devices powered with little to no battery usage. With the vision in place, Dave and his team went to work innovating battery life.  They started with battery-powered Bluetooth devices. Solving Core Battery Problems The advantages Autmosic’s technologies will offer:  Lowest power usage without compromising quality. Turns device off when not in use with system level check that transmits only when needed. RF energy harvesting, enabling the battery to last forever.  Long-term vision:  “Battery-free utopia” – ecosystem in enterprise applications.  Lessons Learned What has David learned along the journey toward innovating battery life?  David has some tips for people whether they’re starting a company or pursuing innovation.  Interoperate – work with what is already known and improve it. Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you and be willing to listen. Make sure what you are doing is what you truly believe in and arepassionate  Ground what you are doing in reality.  By innovating battery life, Atmosic is focusing on a problem that affects us all.  Powering down to power up will keep us connected sustainably. To track what Atmosic is doing, visit www.atmosic.com/   For the latest updates, check them out on Twitter and LinkedIn. To learn more about powering up, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: A New Way to Power Up.  .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postImageUrl , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:visited , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active { border:0!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Continuing our Best of Killer Innovation series, we look at David Su’s innovative solution to the problem of disposable and short-lived battery life and his tips for success that helped him start Atmosic.</p> <p></p> <p>Being connected has become an essential part of our daily lives. <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/video-of-march-on-wireless-panel-at-the-churchill-club/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wireless</a> has made huge strides over the past two decades.  IoT is connecting our world in ways we would have never imagined.  With the growing demand for constant connectivity, one area that needs fine-tuning is battery life.  All these devices we use throughout the day require battery power. Today’s guest saw this as an opportunity.  <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-su-44578566/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">David Su </a>is CEO of <a href="https://atmosic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Atmosic</a>.  His company is innovating battery life.  Creating technologies to reduce battery usage, Atmosic develops solutions that keep things powered up.</p> <h2>Stanford to Startup</h2> <p>Much of David’s career has been in the wireless space.  With a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Stanford, David joined Atheros Communication in 1999 as its fifth employee.  David continued with Atheros as it grew and went public. He stayed on when Qualcomm acquired Atheros. After some years, David felt his time at Qualcomm had run its course.  He ventured into <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/six-practices-of-successful-innovators/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">new areas</a>.  With four former work colleagues, he started a new company.</p> <h2>Atmosic’s Vision</h2> <p>In the wireless world, battery power can be a boon and a bane.  Reliance on wireless means dependence on batteries for power. When batteries lose charge, things can come to a standstill.  Limited battery life also means a lot of <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/on-the-road-thoughts-on-innovation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">batteries get thrown out </a>– to the tune of three billion per year.  Two and a half years ago, David and fellow co-founders started Atmosic with this in mind.  David, Masoud Zargari, David Nakahira, Srinivas Pattamatta, and Manolis Terrovitis brainstormed.  They sought advice from experts in the field. Their vision began to coalesce – to keep connected devices powered with little to no battery usage.</p> <p>With the vision in place, Dave and his team went to work innovating battery life.  They started with battery-powered Bluetooth devices.</p> <h2>Solving Core Battery Problems</h2> <p>The advantages Autmosic’s technologies will offer:</p> <ul> <li>Lowest power usage without compromising quality.</li> <li>Turns device off when not in use with system level check that transmits only when needed.</li> <li>RF energy harvesting, enabling the battery to last forever.</li> </ul> <p>Long-term vision:</p> <ul> <li>“Battery-free utopia” – ecosystem in enterprise applications.</li> </ul> <h2>Lessons Learned</h2> <p>What has David learned along the journey toward innovating battery life?  David has some tips for people whether they’re starting a company or pursuing innovation.</p> <ul> <li>Interoperate – work with what is already known and improve it.</li> <li><a href="https://killerinnovations.com/finding-and-benefiting-from-a-coach-and-mentor-s12-ep12/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Surround yourself with people </a>who are smarter than you and be willing to listen.</li> <li>Make sure what you are doing is what you truly believe in and are<a href="https://killerinnovations.com/finding-and-keeping-innovation-champions/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">passionate </a></li> <li>Ground what you are doing in reality.</li> </ul> <p>By innovating battery life, Atmosic is focusing on a problem that affects us all.  Powering down to power up will keep us connected sustainably.</p> <p>To track what Atmosic is doing, visit <a href="http://www.atmosic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.atmosic.com/</a>   For the latest updates, check them out on <a href="https://twitter.com/Atmosic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/atmosic-technologies" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>.</p> <p>To learn more about powering up, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/A_New_Way_to_Power_Up.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: A New Way to Power Up</a>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postImageUrl , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:visited , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active { border:0!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: A New Way to Power Up

Continuing our Best of Killer Innovation series, we examine how one creator, Rama Sreenivasan of Blitzz, looked outside the box and created solutions to the hindrances he faced on his innovative journey.  When you're in the middle of an important project and equipment fails, you want it fixed fast.  In this week's show, I talk with Blitzz Co-founder Rama Sreenivasan. His company is solving the inefficiencies of tech support.  Blitzz's customer support innovation integrates AI, AR, and live video to solve problems faster. Winding Journeys Connected Rama's path has taken some unexpected twists, from a chemical engineer working on medical devices to starting a SaaS company.  But at the heart of it, he is a problem solver.  The source of his inspiration: his dad, who he likes to call “MacGyver.” Rama founded Blitzz together with co-founder Keyur Patel two years ago.  They most recently participated in CableLabs Filterator.  This accelerator program helps startups develop a product-market fit for the cable industry. A System That Assesses Without the Hassle When instruments stop working, it's time to bring in a helpful live assistant. Blitz's customer support innovation allows a better perspective of and feel for the problem. Through live video chat, companies can avoid spending on onsite technician visits. Customer support is not only heightened but it is also trained to see around the inconspicuous.  Innovation in repair operations contributes to cuts in labor fees and time processing.  What prompted Rama to create Blitzz's innovative approach?  During his PH. D and Post-Doctoral work, frustration with equipment breakdown mid-experiment was the impetus.  The long wait to get repairs done seemed a waste. Rama felt there had to be a better way. AR Perception In any given company, customer support could always be better. That's why the addition of AR technology adds to the customer experience. Questions can be answered faster and more efficiently. One no longer has to worry about the hassle of scheduling an in-person visit. AR perception captures it all. This innovation allows one on one human interaction on a more convenient level. AI Intelligence Equipment can malfunction and run the risk of being unreliable. AI customer support can redirect the customer to questions and answers that may be a better fit. This AI customer support innovation becomes its teacher. The AI brings the ability to learn from the information it processes. Lessons Learned Rama highly recommends entrepreneurs go through an accelerator.  He learned critical elements of the startup process through that experience.  He also credits passion for driving the startup process. Connecting with mentors can help fan the flames of that passion. If you'd like to track the latest with Blitzz, visit the website: https://blitzz.co/ or check out Blitzz on LinkedIn and Twitter. We love your feedback. Tell us what you'd like to hear on Killer Innovations. Get in touch and let me know. To learn more about innovations in customer support, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Innovations in Customer Support.  .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postImageUrl , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:visited , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active { border:0!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Continuing our Best of Killer Innovation series, we examine how one creator, Rama Sreenivasan of Blitzz, looked outside the box and created solutions to the hindrances he faced on his innovative journey.</p> <p></p> <p>When you're in the middle of an important project and equipment fails, you want it fixed fast.  In this week's show, I talk with Blitzz Co-founder Rama Sreenivasan. His company is solving the inefficiencies of <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/how-cutting-edge-technology-makes-the-familiar-better/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">tech support</a>.  Blitzz's customer support innovation integrates AI, AR, and live video to solve problems faster.</p> <h2>Winding Journeys Connected</h2> <p>Rama's path has taken some unexpected twists, from a chemical engineer working on medical devices to starting a SaaS company.  But at the heart of it, he is a problem solver.  The source of his inspiration: his dad, who he likes to call “MacGyver.”</p> <p>Rama founded Blitzz together with co-founder Keyur Patel two years ago.  They most recently participated in CableLabs <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/accessible-innovation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Filterator</a>.  This accelerator program helps startups develop a product-market fit for the cable industry.</p> <p>A System That Assesses Without the Hassle</p> <p>When instruments stop working, it's time to bring in a helpful live assistant. Blitz's customer support innovation allows a better perspective of and feel for the problem. Through live video chat, companies can avoid spending on onsite technician visits. <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/big-mistake-failing-support-innovation-proper-resources/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Customer support</a> is not only heightened but it is also trained to see around the inconspicuous.  Innovation in repair operations contributes to cuts in labor fees and time processing.  What prompted Rama to create Blitzz's innovative approach?  During his PH. D and Post-Doctoral work, frustration with equipment breakdown mid-experiment was the impetus.  The long wait to get repairs done seemed a waste. Rama felt there had to be a better way.</p> <h2>AR Perception</h2> <p>In any given company, <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/real-innovation-artificial-intelligence/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">customer support</a><a href="https://killerinnovations.com/real-innovation-artificial-intelligence/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> </a>could always be better. That's why the addition of AR technology adds to the customer experience. Questions can be answered faster and more efficiently. One no longer has to worry about the hassle of scheduling an in-person visit. AR perception captures it all. This <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/a-change-maker-in-the-innovation-game/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">innovation</a> allows one on one human interaction on a more convenient level.</p> <h2>AI Intelligence</h2> <p>Equipment can malfunction and run the risk of being unreliable. AI <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/using-resources-power-innovation-success-stories/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">customer support </a>can redirect the customer to questions and answers that may be a better fit. This AI customer support innovation becomes its teacher. The AI brings the ability to learn from the information it processes.</p> <h2>Lessons Learned</h2> <p>Rama highly recommends entrepreneurs go through an accelerator.  He learned critical elements of the startup process through that experience.  He also credits passion for driving the startup process. Connecting with mentors can help fan the flames of that passion.</p> <p>If you'd like to track the latest with Blitzz, visit the website: <a href="https://blitzz.co/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://blitzz.co/</a> or check out Blitzz on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/blitzz" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fblitzz_co" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.</p> <p>We love your feedback. Tell us what you'd like to hear on Killer Innovations. <a href="mailto:Phil@killerinnovations.com%20%3cPhil@killerinnovations.com%3e;">Get in touch </a>and let me know.</p> <p>To learn more about innovations in customer support, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Innovations_in_Customer_Support.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: Innovations in Customer Support</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postImageUrl , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:visited , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active { border:0!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: Innovations in Customer Support

You can learn, practice, and perfect the skill of innovation. To keep the innovation funnel flowing, generating quality ideas is essential. On this week’s Best of Killer Innovation Series, we ask, how do you boost innovation in a team lacking confidence? One practical approach is organizing a disruptive ideation workshop. Let's explore how to create a successful one.  Condensed Boot Camp I run an intensive four-day Innovation Boot Camp course a few times yearly. Students often request a condensed one-day version for their teams. In response, I developed the Disruptive Ideation Workshop, which focused on a disruptive approach to generate more and better ideas using the FIRE method. The workshop aims to teach the skill, apply it, and create a pipeline of ideas for the organization. Recently, we tested the workshop with 25 senior leaders with no innovation background. The results surpassed expectations, leading us to name it the “Disruptive Ideation Workshop.” Overview of the Disruptive Ideation Workshop Disruptive ideation means causing innovation through unconventional approaches. The workshop has two main objectives:  Teach a disruptive approach to ideation, significantly increasing the quantity and quality of generated ideas. Apply the learned skills to the organization's real-world problem, resulting in a ranked set of disruptive ideas.  The course comprises two sections: Foundation and Skills and Application/Practice. Foundation Section:  Debunk myths and mysteries surrounding innovation. Develop essential innovation skills, such as overcoming self-doubt, fostering imagination, and seeing with fresh eyes. Address innovation anti-bodies, such as ego, risk aversion, and resistance to change. Introduce the FIRE framework: Focus: Define the problem statement clearly for relevant idea generation. Ideation: Use powerful questions to generate a multitude of high-quality ideas. Ranking: Group and identify top ideas from the pool. Execution: Refine and expand on selected ideas.    We emphasize the Ideation component. Skills and Application/Practice Section: Students apply the elements of the FIRE framework to an accurate problem statement. Skills taught include:  FOCUS: Clearly defining the problem as a well-defined statement is crucial. IDEATION: Use questions to generate more and better ideas, building upon individual contributions. RANKING: Group and select top ideas from the pool. EXECUTION: Expand on chosen ideas with depth and thought.  We emphasize “Adapt and Adopt,” allowing students to apply the learned skills effectively within their organizations. Lessons from the Disruptive Ideation Workshop Insights from conducting the workshop include:  The one-day format allows focused time away from daily responsibilities. Crafting a solid problem statement is critical, so allocate sufficient time. Limit workshop size to a manageable number of students, ideally no more than 20. Establish the following steps to sustain momentum post-workshop.  Foster a community among participants to maintain a vibrant learning atmosphere. To learn more about disruptive innovation workshops, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Creating a Disruptive Ideation Workshop.  .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postImageUrl , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:visited , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active { border:0!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>You can learn, practice, and perfect the skill of innovation. To keep the innovation funnel flowing, generating quality ideas is essential. On this week’s Best of Killer Innovation Series, we ask, how do you boost innovation in a team lacking confidence? One practical approach is organizing a disruptive ideation workshop. Let's explore how to create a successful one.</p> <p></p> <h2>Condensed Boot Camp</h2> <p>I run an intensive four-day Innovation Boot Camp course a few times yearly. Students often request a condensed one-day version for their teams. In response, I developed the Disruptive Ideation Workshop, which focused on a disruptive approach to generate more and better ideas using the FIRE method. The workshop aims to teach the skill, apply it, and create a pipeline of ideas for the organization. Recently, we tested the workshop with 25 senior leaders with no innovation background. The results surpassed expectations, leading us to name it the “Disruptive Ideation Workshop.”</p> <h2>Overview of the Disruptive Ideation Workshop</h2> <p>Disruptive ideation means causing innovation through unconventional approaches. The workshop has two main objectives:</p> <ol> <li>Teach a disruptive approach to ideation, significantly increasing the quantity and quality of generated ideas.</li> <li>Apply the learned skills to the organization's real-world problem, resulting in a ranked set of disruptive ideas.</li> </ol> <p>The course comprises two sections: Foundation and Skills and Application/Practice.</p> <h2>Foundation Section:</h2> <ol> <li>Debunk myths and mysteries surrounding innovation.</li> <li>Develop essential innovation skills, such as overcoming self-doubt, fostering imagination, and seeing with fresh eyes.</li> <li>Address innovation anti-bodies, such as ego, risk aversion, and resistance to change.</li> <li>Introduce the FIRE framework:<br><ol> <li>Focus: Define the problem statement clearly for relevant idea generation.</li> <li>Ideation: Use powerful questions to generate a multitude of high-quality ideas.</li> <li>Ranking: Group and identify top ideas from the pool.</li> <li>Execution: Refine and expand on selected ideas.</li> </ol> </li> </ol> <p>We emphasize the Ideation component.</p> <h2>Skills and Application/Practice Section:</h2> <p>Students apply the elements of the FIRE framework to an accurate problem statement.</p> <p>Skills taught include:</p> <ol> <li>FOCUS: Clearly defining the problem as a well-defined statement is crucial.</li> <li>IDEATION: Use questions to generate more and better ideas, building upon individual contributions.</li> <li>RANKING: Group and select top ideas from the pool.</li> <li>EXECUTION: Expand on chosen ideas with depth and thought.</li> </ol> <p>We emphasize “Adapt and Adopt,” allowing students to apply the learned skills effectively within their organizations.</p> <h2>Lessons from the Disruptive Ideation Workshop</h2> <p>Insights from conducting the workshop include:</p> <ol> <li>The one-day format allows focused time away from daily responsibilities.</li> <li>Crafting a solid problem statement is critical, so allocate sufficient time.</li> <li>Limit workshop size to a manageable number of students, ideally no more than 20.</li> <li>Establish the following steps to sustain momentum post-workshop.</li> </ol> <p>Foster a community among participants to maintain a vibrant learning atmosphere.</p> <p>To learn more about disruptive innovation workshops, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Creating_a_Disruptive_Innovation_Workshop.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: Creating a Disruptive Ideation Workshop</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postImageUrl , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:visited , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active { border:0!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: Creating a Disruptive Ideation Workshop

On this week’s Best of Killer Innovation Series, we analyze qualities that promote strong innovation leadership and will help any organization become a trailblazer in the game.  What are the unique skill sets needed for innovation leadership?  We all have a list of what good leadership skills are but what are the unique ones you need to be a true innovation leader?  Today on Killer Innovations, I will discuss what I have found to be the skills needed for successful innovation leadership. Innovation Leadership Skills These leadership skills apply to all organizations, whether you are a small organization or a large organization.  Integrity  You need to trust the people you are working with. You need to know they are looking out for what is in the best interests of the team and organization.   Vision and Strategy.  Team members are looking to the leaders to communicate what the vision and strategy are. You need to look long-range beyond where the team is and roll that back in so they can see what your vision is. You need to be able to tell the story, make the pitch, and share your dream with others. Communication is critical to successful innovation leadership, If you are going to be a leader, you need to be able to interact and build relationships and truly have an interest in other people’s lives. Know what is going on in your team members’ lives so you can help them eliminate distractions and get their heads in the game. You have got to persuade people to leave what they are doing now and join your team. You must be able to convince them that what are doing is something worth their time.   Adaptability and Flexibility.  As a leader you cannot be rigid, you must be adaptable and flexible with your team and organization. Can you operate as a leader of a team? You need diversity in your team to be successful.   Coach and develop.  Find young and upcoming people and coach and develop them.   Decision-Making.  You must be comfortable making the final decision. Realize that sometimes the decision you make is going to fail.   Planning and organizing.  If you are not good at planning and organizing, then hire people to do it for your team.    Basic Skill You Need These are the basic skills you need to be a successful innovation leader.  So, what skills do you need to do differently to truly be an innovation leader?  Innovation leadership involves taking risks.  You must be comfortable that some of the decisions you make are going to fail. Some of your decisions are going to be flipped.   You need to keep looking for new opportunities and threats.  Look for threats to your organization, industry, or geography.   Innovation is about change.  Stability is the death of innovation. Foster a culture where change is expected.   Do not rest on the traditional management techniques.  Every situation is different. You need to invent the way you manage and do leadership.   Be an optimist.  Innovation is about being an optimist. You need to convince and convey an optimistic view of the future.   Innovators cut through the crap.  Innovation leaders need to cut through the crap and get to the core. You need to step in and stop the corporate game-playing.    Let’s connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.  If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know.  The email address is feedback@philmckinney.com or you can go to Philmckinney.com and drop me a note there. Thinking Beyond the Obvious The challenges on the creativity innovation side do not change based on scale.  It is the same whether you have a five-person team or a fifty-person team.  The challenge is operating and innovating at the same level.  A lot of companies get in a rut because they are doing what they have always done.  So, how do you push yourself and people to go beyond the obvious and do the next thing?  Break the rules.  Corporate antibodies will come after new ideas; you need to recognize that these antibodies exist. Sometimes you are the corporate antibody.   You must think differently.  You must unlearn what you have been taught when it comes to conforming. Make sure that you challenge yourself to go beyond the obvious answer to questions.   It is all about asking.  How do you ask questions that will make you think about something you have not considered before? How do you ask those killer questions? Better questions get you better answers.    To learn more about innovation leadership, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: The Art of Innovation Leadership.  .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postImageUrl , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:visited , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active { border:0!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>On this week’s Best of Killer Innovation Series, we analyze qualities that promote strong innovation leadership and will help any organization become a trailblazer in the game.</p> <p></p> <p>What are the unique skill sets needed for innovation leadership?  We all have a list of what good leadership skills are but what are the unique ones you need to be a true innovation leader?  Today on Killer Innovations, I will discuss what I have found to be the skills needed for successful innovation leadership.</p> <h2>Innovation Leadership Skills</h2> <p>These leadership skills apply to all organizations, whether you are a small organization or a large organization.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Integrity</strong> <ol> <li>You need to trust the people you are working with.</li> <li>You need to know they are looking out for what is in the best interests of the team and organization.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>Vision and </strong><a href="https://killerinnovations.com/why-do-87-percent-of-companies-fail-to-execute-their-strategy-s11-ep34/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Strategy</strong></a><strong>.</strong> <ol> <li>Team members are looking to the leaders to communicate what the vision and strategy are.</li> <li>You need to look long-range beyond where the team is and roll that back in so they can see what your vision is.</li> <li>You need to be able to tell the story, make the pitch, and share your dream with others.</li> <li>Communication is critical to successful<a href="https://killerinnovations.com/succeed-leading-innovation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> innovation</a> leadership,</li> <li>If you are going to be a leader, you need to be able to interact and build relationships and truly have an interest in other people’s lives.</li> <li>Know what is going on in your team members’ lives so you can help them eliminate distractions and get their heads in the game.</li> <li>You have got to persuade people to leave what they are doing now and join your team.</li> <li>You must be able to convince them that what are doing is something worth their time.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>Adaptability and</strong><a href="https://killerinnovations.com/succeed-leading-innovation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong> Flexibility</strong></a><strong>.</strong> <ol> <li>As a leader you cannot be rigid, you must be adaptable and flexible with your team and organization.</li> <li>Can you operate as a leader of a team?</li> <li>You need diversity in your team to be successful.</li> </ol> </li> <li><a href="https://killerinnovations.com/7-laws-of-innovation-and-benefitting-from-coaching-insights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Coach</strong></a><strong> and develop.</strong> <ol> <li>Find young and upcoming people and coach and develop them.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>Decision-Making.</strong> <ol> <li>You must be comfortable making the final decision.</li> <li>Realize that sometimes the decision you make is going to fail.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>Planning and organizing.</strong> <ol> <li>If you are not good at planning and organizing, then hire people to do it for your team.</li> </ol> </li> </ol> <h2>Basic Skill You Need</h2> <p>These are the basic skills you need to be a successful innovation leader.  So, what skills do you need to do differently to truly be an innovation leader?</p> <ol> <li><strong>Innovation leadership involves taking risks.</strong> <ol> <li>You must be comfortable that some of the decisions you make are going to fail.</li> <li>Some of your decisions are going to be flipped.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>You need to keep looking for new opportunities and threats.</strong> <ol> <li>Look for threats to your organization, industry, or geography.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>Innovation is about change.</strong> <ol> <li>Stability is the death of innovation.</li> <li>Foster a culture where change is expected.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>Do not rest on the traditional management techniques.</strong> <ol> <li>Every situation is different.</li> <li>You need to invent the way you manage and do leadership.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>Be an optimist.</strong> <ol> <li>Innovation is about being an optimist.</li> <li>You need to convince and convey an optimistic view of the future.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>Innovators cut through the crap.</strong> <ol> <li>Innovation leaders need to cut through the crap and get to the core.</li> <li>You need to step in and stop the corporate game-playing.</li> </ol> </li> </ol> <p>Let’s connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.  If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know.  The email address is <a href="mailto:feedback@philmckinney.com">feedback@philmckinney.com</a> or you can go to <a href="https://philmckinney.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Philmckinney.com</a> and drop me a note there.</p> <h2>Thinking Beyond the Obvious</h2> <p>The challenges on the creativity innovation side do not change based on <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/smart-ideation-to-scale-your-business/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">scale</a>.  It is the same whether you have a five-person team or a fifty-person team.  The challenge is operating and innovating at the same level.  A lot of companies get in a rut because they are doing what they have always done.  So, how do you push yourself and people to go beyond the obvious and do the next thing?</p> <ol> <li><strong>Break the rules.</strong> <ol> <li>Corporate antibodies will come after new ideas; you need to recognize that these antibodies exist.</li> <li>Sometimes you are the corporate <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/fighting-the-corporate-antibodies/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">antibody</a>.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>You must think differently.</strong> <ol> <li>You must unlearn what you have been taught when it comes to conforming.</li> <li>Make sure that you challenge yourself to go beyond the obvious answer to questions.</li> </ol> </li> <li><strong>It is all about asking.</strong> <ol> <li>How do you ask questions that will make you think about something you have not considered before?</li> <li>How do you ask those <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/10-ways-to-unleash-your-creativity-today/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">killer questions</a>?</li> <li>Better questions get you better answers.</li> </ol> </li> </ol> <p>To learn more about innovation leadership, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/The_Art_of_Innovation_Leadership.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: The Art of Innovation Leadership</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postImageUrl , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:visited , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active { border:0!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: The Art of Innovation Leadership

Continuing our Best of Killer Innovations Series, we touch on creativity. Below are some ways to get inspired into incorporating creativity into your personal life to benefit your professional success. What's your creative inspiration?  Everyone is creative.  Yet some people seem more creative than others.  What do those people have that others might lack?  What's the secret to creativity? This week we talk about finding creative inspiration outside of work.  I'll share my thoughts on what makes people creative. We'll also hear Kym McNicholas interview Tania Katan.  Tania has just come out with a book called Creative Trespassing: How to Put the Spark and Joy into Your Work and Life. Finding Inspiration Humans use creativity every day to solve complex issues.  Some people are more creative than others in problem-solving.  How do these people manage to stay ahead of everyone else creatively?  First, these people are inspired. Find something piques your interest and drives you to go above and beyond, experiment, and learn.  You can find creative inspiration even at work. If you are passionate about your work, you are feeding your creativity. Practicing Creativity Another common denominator of creative people is that they practice creativity.  People do not just wake up already skilled at something. They have to practice it until they have mastered it.  We can define practice as two things:  To do repeated exercises for proficiency To pursue a profession actively    There is a myth that you can't practice creativity and innovation.  You can practice and become proficient. There are many ways to exercise your creative abilities.  There are exercises for the daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly practice of creative skills. Talking Creative Inspiration with Tania Katan Tania Katan shares with Kym McNicholas how people's creativity in their personal life can enhance their work.  Her book, Creative Trespassing: How to Put the Spark and Joy Back into Your Work and Life, examines the impact of bringing personal creative exercise into the workplace. Tania wrote this book because she saw a disconnect between people's creativity and what they did at their jobs during the day. Tania says that if you are looking for innovation, you must bring your creativity to your job.  We can solve problems with innovation by getting our creativity to work. Throughout the book, there are exercises called “Productive Disruptions.”  These are creativity breaks. Stanford's study was called the “Walking Creativity Study.” This proved that people who went for walks experiencing creative blocks experienced 60 percent higher creativity afterward. Scientific studies have proven that disruptions and breaks help improve creativity. Many people don't enhance creativity because they don't have the right experience or training.  We must break through that barrier and ask “what if” questions. Stop trying to solve problems the same way and push creativity. Some of the most significant takeaways from the book are:  Our job does not have to be uniquely creative for us actually to be creative. We need to feel free at the workplace to create a creative revolution inside our bodies, minds, and cubicles.  One of the biggest roadblocks to creativity is the fear of thinking and doing things differently. The best way to get through that obstacle is to face it. To learn more about creative inspiration, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Creative Inspiration— From Personal to Professional.  .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Continuing our Best of Killer Innovations Series, we touch on creativity. Below are some ways to get inspired into incorporating creativity into your personal life to benefit your professional success. What's your creative inspiration?</p> <p></p> <p>Everyone is creative.  Yet some people seem more creative than others.  What do those people have that others might lack?  What's the secret to creativity? This week we talk about finding creative inspiration outside of work.  I'll share my thoughts on what makes people creative. We'll also hear Kym McNicholas interview Tania Katan.  Tania has just come out with a book called <em>Creative Trespassing: How to Put the Spark and Joy into Your Work and Life</em>.</p> <h2>Finding Inspiration</h2> <p>Humans use creativity every day to <a href="https://philmckinney.com/leaders-innovation-theyre-creating-cultures-creativity/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">solve complex issues.  </a>Some people are more creative than others in problem-solving.  How do these people manage to stay ahead of everyone else creatively?  First, these people are inspired. Find something piques your interest and drives you to go above and beyond, experiment, and learn.  You can find creative inspiration even at work. If you are passionate about your work, you are feeding your <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/10-ways-to-unleash-your-creativity-today/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">creativity</a>.</p> <h2>Practicing Creativity</h2> <p>Another common denominator of creative people is that they practice creativity.  People do not just wake up already skilled at something. They have to practice it until they have mastered it.  We can define practice as two things:</p> <ul> <li>To do repeated exercises for proficiency</li> <li>To pursue a profession actively</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>There is a myth that you can't practice creativity and innovation.  You can practice and become proficient. There are many ways to exercise your creative abilities.  There are exercises for the daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/is-creative-thinking-based-on-nature-or-nurture/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">practice of creative skills</a>.</p> <h2>Talking Creative Inspiration with Tania Katan</h2> <p>Tania Katan shares with Kym McNicholas how people's creativity in their personal life can enhance their work.  Her book, <em>Creative Trespassing: How to Put the Spark and Joy Back into Your Work and Life</em>, examines the impact of bringing personal creative exercise into the workplace. Tania wrote this book because she saw a disconnect between people's creativity and what they did at their jobs during the day.</p> <p>Tania says that if you are looking for innovation, you must bring your creativity to your job.  We can solve problems with innovation by getting our creativity to work. Throughout the book, there are exercises called “Productive Disruptions.”  These are creativity breaks. Stanford's study was called the “Walking Creativity Study.” This proved that <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/brain-health-for-innovation-and-creativity/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">people who went for walks</a> experiencing creative blocks experienced 60 percent higher creativity afterward. Scientific studies have proven that disruptions and breaks help improve creativity. Many people don't enhance creativity because they don't have the right experience or training.  We must break through that barrier and ask “what if” questions. Stop trying to solve problems the same way and push creativity.</p> <p>Some of the most significant takeaways from the book are:</p> <ul> <li>Our job does not have to be uniquely creative for us actually to be creative.</li> <li>We need to feel free at the workplace to create a creative revolution inside our bodies, minds, and cubicles.</li> </ul> <p>One of the biggest roadblocks to creativity is the <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/overcome-impostor-syndrome-be-more-creative/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">fear</a> of thinking and doing things differently. The best way to get through that obstacle is to face it.</p> <p>To learn more about creative inspiration, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Creative_Inspiration_from_Personal_to_Professional.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: Creative Inspiration— From Personal to Professional</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: Creative Inspiration— From Personal to Professional

Looking at our Best of Killer Innovations Series, we examine the dynamic nature of innovation and how to manage changing cycles best so that you and your ventures can succeed.  Today's latest innovation can quickly be replaced with the next best thing tomorrow.  Whether you're a newcomer to innovation or a seasoned innovator, there's something every innovator should know.  How to forecast and survive cycles of innovation.  This week Ray Zinn, longest serving CEO of a publicly traded company in Silicon Valley, shares his insights—Ray's astute ability to forecast what was coming enabled his company to survive the innovation cycles. Sage Advice: Don't Work for Someone Else In 1974, Ray's boss conveyed a bit of advice.  Don't work for someone else. This advice set Ray on the entrepreneurial path.  He started his own company. With $300,000 of self-funding, he started doing test services.  It was challenging to start a company that was profitable from day one. Ray and his business partner managed it.  By 1985, their company, Micrel Inc., hired engineers and started designing their products. Eventually, Samsung selected Micrel technology for their first cell phones.  With blue chip clients, numerous inventions, and patents in wireless radio and other areas, Micrel went public in 1994. Micrel was profitable every year through 2001. Although Ray had to rebuild the whole company, it remained profitable. Forecasting Innovation Cycles How do you lead companies through the high rate of innovation change?  Ray was able to accomplish this. Ray learned the cycles of innovation so he could forecast them.  You have to know the cycles to predict them for your company.  How do you do this? Your customers are your best lead.  The key to surviving these cycles is understanding them.  Cycles last at the most five years.  You must anticipate what is going to be the following winning product. Getting Your Board Right What were the insights Ray wished he had early on?  Be careful about your Board. He elaborated on his biggest mistake –  not being more selective about his Board of Director participation.  Having a viable, helpful, and contributable Board is critical.  You want members who roll up their sleeves and add value where needed.  You don't need board members to pick you apart and create tension. Ray believes that Boards must focus less on what investors or shareholders want.  They must emphasize what is best for the company and adds sustainable value. Boards should not be too independent. Independence leads to disconnect and a lack of understanding of a company's intricacies and operations. With his wealth of experience in the heart of the world's startup capital, Ray wanted to give back.  He created the Zinn Starter, a seed investment firm akin to Shark Tank for universities. Almost every university in this country has an entrepreneur program.  The Zinn Starter consists of students taking their business ideas before a Board. If the Board approves the concept, the student can start a company while still a student.  Zinn Starter is limited to fully enrolled university students. It is part of the entrepreneur program for six universities. The program has been running for two years, with over five thousand students participating. Ray has also written a book called Tough Things First.  Used by many universities as a textbook, it covers his time with his company in Silicon Valley.  You can track Ray at http://toughthingsfirst.com/.  Visit his website to hear weekly podcasts and tips for entrepreneurs. To learn more about surviving changes, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: How to Survive Changing Cycles and Accurately Forecast.  .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postImageUrl , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:visited , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active { border:0!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Looking at our Best of Killer Innovations Series, we examine the dynamic nature of innovation and how to manage changing cycles best so that you and your ventures can succeed.</p> <p></p> <p>Today's latest innovation can quickly be replaced with the next best thing tomorrow.  Whether you're a newcomer to innovation or a seasoned innovator, there's something every innovator should know.  How to forecast and survive <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/understanding-law-patience-innovation-cycle/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cycles of innovation</a>.  This week Ray Zinn, longest serving CEO of a publicly traded company in Silicon Valley, shares his insights—Ray's astute ability to <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/listening-skill-and-rules-of-future-forecasting/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">forecast</a> what was coming enabled his company to survive the innovation cycles.</p> <h2>Sage Advice: Don't Work for Someone Else</h2> <p>In 1974, Ray's boss conveyed a bit of advice.  Don't work for someone else. This advice set Ray on the entrepreneurial path.  He started his own company. With $300,000 of self-funding, he started doing test services.  It was challenging to start a company that was profitable from day one. Ray and his business partner managed it.  By 1985, their company, Micrel Inc., hired engineers and started designing their products. Eventually, Samsung selected Micrel technology for their first cell phones.  With blue chip clients, numerous inventions, and patents in wireless radio and other areas, Micrel went public in 1994. Micrel was profitable every year through 2001. Although Ray had to rebuild the whole company, it remained profitable.</p> <h2>Forecasting Innovation Cycles</h2> <p>How do you lead companies through the high rate of innovation change?  Ray was able to accomplish this. Ray learned the cycles of innovation so he could forecast them.  You have to know the cycles to<a href="https://killerinnovations.com/technology-megatrends/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> predict </a>them for your company.  How do you do this? Your <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/are-customers-a-source-of-ideas-for-innovation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">customers</a> are your best lead.  The key to surviving these cycles is understanding them.  <a href="https://philmckinney.com/innovation-adoption/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cycles </a>last at the most five years.  You must anticipate what is going to be the following <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/how-to-ask-questions-to-find-new-ideas/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">winning product</a>.</p> <h2>Getting Your Board Right</h2> <p>What were the insights Ray wished he had early on?  Be careful about your Board. He elaborated on his biggest mistake –  not being more selective about his <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/innovation-leadership-the-role-of-the-ceo-board-and-the-innovation-advisory-board/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Board of Director</a> participation.  Having a viable, helpful, and contributable Board is critical.  You want members who roll up their sleeves and add value where needed.  You don't need board members to pick you apart and create tension. Ray believes that Boards must focus less on what investors or shareholders want.  They must emphasize what is best for the company and adds sustainable value. Boards should not be too independent. Independence leads to disconnect and a lack of understanding of a company's intricacies and operations.</p> <p>With his wealth of experience in the heart of the world's startup capital, Ray wanted to give back.  He created the <em>Zinn Starter</em>, a seed investment firm akin to <em>Shark Tank</em> for universities. Almost every university in this country has an entrepreneur program.  The Zinn Starter consists of students taking their business ideas before a Board. If the Board approves the concept, the student can start a company while still a student.  Zinn Starter is limited to fully enrolled university students. It is part of the entrepreneur program for six universities. The program has been running for two years, with over five thousand students participating.</p> <p>Ray has also written a book called <em>Tough Things First</em>.  Used by many universities as a textbook, it covers his time with his company in Silicon Valley.  You can track Ray at <a href="http://toughthingsfirst.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://toughthingsfirst.com/</a>.  Visit his website to hear weekly podcasts and tips for entrepreneurs.</p> <p>To learn more about surviving changes, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/How_to_Survive_Changing_Cycles_and_Accurately_Forecast.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: How to Survive Changing Cycles and Accurately Forecast</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postImageUrl , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:visited , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active { border:0!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: How to Survive Changing Cycles and Accurately Forecast

Diving into our Best of Killer Innovation series, we address a common hindrance to innovation: a drought of new ideas. To fix this problem, I’ve developed a simple list of ways to get the creative flow of thoughts circulating back into your organization.  When generating ideas, the default answer is to host a brainstorming session.  Are there other ways to create new ideas that are not dependent on traditional brainstorming?  Today on Killer Innovations, I will share the five I use with you. Mind Mapping and Wishing Mind mapping is a fairly common term nowadays; many types of software provide templates for mind mapping.  Traditionally they are used to organize your data, but it is also a great way to generate new ideas.  Develop your problem statement. Write the problem statement in the center of your idea (whiteboards work great). Expand on this problem statement by surrounding it with terms that better describe your needs. Now add a second layer to each of your needs describing how you might be able to solve these individual challenges. Keep adding to your mind map using the steps above until you have sufficiently broken down your problem into manageable parts.  It is a fantastic ideation technique that encourages creative answers.  Another great way to generate new ideas is by wishing.  Wishing encourages your team to let their imaginations run wild.  Assuming you have a well-researched and understood problem statement, ask each participant to dream up the most unattainable solutions related to the problem statement.  Create a list of a few dozen wishes and go through the wishes by considering and discussing the ideas in detail.  Ask yourself:  What makes them so impossible? How can that idea be scaled down? Which features of that wish could we integrate into this other approach?  You might be surprised to discover practical, real-world solutions among the team’s wildest wishes. Six Thinking Hats Six Thinking Hats by Dr. Edward de Bono unleashed a new approach to generating ideas by breaking down the ideas into six areas of thought.  It helps participants put themselves into the shoes of another.  The six hats are:  Logic- the facts. Optimism- the value and the benefits. Devil’s Advocate- the difficulties and dangers. Emotion- Feelings and intuitions. Creativity- Possibilities and new ideas. Management- Ensuring the observance of the hat rules.  So, how do you use the tool? Have each member put on one of these different “hats” for the discussion. Make sure everyone has their say, and rotate the hats to others for extended sessions. Hence, everyone can see the problem and ideas from various perspectives. Brain-Writing and Forced Combinations One challenge for generating ideas is getting everything rattling around in your head out.  In this exercise, each participant takes a piece of paper and writes rough ideas for solving the problem statement.  Each person passes on each piece of paper, reads it silently, and adds their ideas to the page. This process is repeated until everyone has had an opportunity to contribute to each piece of paper. Once participants have retrieved their original paper, they read and organize the ideas.  Then each participant shares the notes and ideas on their piece of paper.  The significant advantage of brain-writing is that it ensures everybody has an opportunity to share their ideas and reinforces the idea of “building on the ideas of others.” Lastly, the final way to generate ideas is one I have used with my product teams.  The premise is to look at non-logical combinations to create entirely new ideas.  This exercise involves combining ideas that serve different needs or interests to form a new concept.  How does this work?  Bring a bag of random items to your ideation. Draw up two lists side-by-side of the items in the bag. Request a team member to choose two or more items and explore ways they can combine them. On the list, draw a line for each combination shared with a brief description of the ideas that resulted. Put the items back in the bag. The following person selects two or more items and repeats the process.  This technique can produce some silly results, but it is ultimately a helpful way of getting your team out of a creative rut. To learn more about generating new ideas, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Escaping a Creative Rut – Generating New Ideas.  .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postImageUrl , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:visited , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active { border:0!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Diving into our Best of Killer Innovation series, we address a common hindrance to innovation: a drought of new ideas. To fix this problem, I’ve developed a simple list of ways to get the creative flow of thoughts circulating back into your organization.</p> <p></p> <p>When generating ideas, the default answer is to host a brainstorming session.  Are there other ways to create new ideas that are not dependent on traditional brainstorming?  Today on Killer Innovations, I will share the five I use with you.</p> <h2>Mind Mapping and Wishing</h2> <p>Mind mapping is a fairly common term nowadays; many types of software provide templates for <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/creating-white-space-innovations-using-innovation-maps-to-create-white-space-innovations/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">mind mapping</a>.  Traditionally they are used to organize your data, but it is also a great way to generate new ideas.</p> <ul> <li>Develop your <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/four-steps-to-better-brainstorm-problem-statements/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">problem statement</a>.</li> <li>Write the problem statement in the center of your idea (whiteboards work great).</li> <li>Expand on this problem statement by surrounding it with terms that better describe your needs.</li> <li>Now add a second layer to each of your needs describing how you might be able to solve these individual challenges.</li> <li>Keep adding to your mind map using the steps above until you have sufficiently broken down your problem into manageable parts.</li> </ul> <p>It is a fantastic ideation technique that encourages creative answers.  Another great way to generate new ideas is by wishing.  Wishing encourages your team to let their imaginations run wild.  Assuming you have a well-researched and understood problem statement, ask each participant to dream up the most unattainable solutions related to the problem statement.  Create a list of a few dozen wishes and go through the wishes by considering and discussing the ideas in detail.  Ask yourself:</p> <ul> <li>What makes them so impossible?</li> <li>How can that idea be scaled down?</li> <li>Which features of that wish could we integrate into this other approach?</li> </ul> <p>You might be surprised to discover practical, real-world solutions among the team’s wildest wishes.</p> <h2>Six Thinking Hats</h2> <p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Six-Thinking-Hats-Edward-Bono/dp/0316178314/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Six+thinking+hats&amp;qid=1561980170&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Six Thinking Hats </a>by Dr. Edward de Bono unleashed a new approach to generating ideas by breaking down the ideas into six areas of thought.  It helps participants put themselves into the shoes of another.  The six hats are:</p> <ul> <li>Logic- the facts.</li> <li>Optimism- the value and the benefits.</li> <li>Devil’s Advocate- the difficulties and dangers.</li> <li>Emotion- Feelings and intuitions.</li> <li>Creativity- Possibilities and new ideas.</li> <li>Management- Ensuring the observance of the hat rules.</li> </ul> <p>So, how do you use the tool? Have each member put on one of these different “hats” for the discussion. Make sure everyone has their say, and rotate the hats to others for extended sessions. Hence, everyone can see the problem and ideas from various perspectives.</p> <h2>Brain-Writing and Forced Combinations</h2> <p>One challenge for generating ideas is getting everything rattling around in your head out.  In this exercise, each participant takes a piece of paper and writes rough ideas for solving the problem statement.  Each person passes on each piece of paper, reads it silently, and adds their ideas to the page. This process is repeated until everyone has had an opportunity to contribute to each piece of paper. Once participants have retrieved their original paper, they read and organize the ideas.  Then each participant shares the notes and ideas on their piece of paper.  The significant advantage of brain-writing is that it ensures everybody has an opportunity to share their ideas and reinforces the idea of “building on the ideas of others.”</p> <p>Lastly, the final way to generate ideas is one I have used with my product teams.  The premise is to look at non-logical combinations to create entirely new ideas.  This exercise involves combining ideas that serve different needs or interests to form a new concept.  How does this work?</p> <ul> <li>Bring a bag of random items to your <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/ready-thrive-innovation-economy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ideation</a>.</li> <li>Draw up two lists side-by-side of the items in the bag.</li> <li>Request a team member to choose two or more items and explore ways they can combine them.</li> <li>On the list, draw a line for each combination shared with a brief description of the ideas that resulted.</li> <li>Put the items back in the bag.</li> <li>The following person selects two or more items and repeats the process.</li> </ul> <p>This technique can produce some silly results, but it is ultimately a helpful way of getting your team out of a creative rut.</p> <p>To learn more about generating new ideas, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Escaping_a_Creative_Rut_Generating_New_Ideas.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: Escaping a Creative Rut – Generating New Ideas</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postImageUrl , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:visited , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active { border:0!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: Escaping a Creative Rut – Generating New Ideas

An award winning podcast and nationally syndicated radio show that looks at the innovations that are changing our lives and how their innovators used creativity and design to take their raw idea and create a game-changing product or service.

Continuing our Best of Killer Innovations series, we look at one manufacturer's innovative use of resources. This company's story is a testament to how innovation can unexpectedly occur anywhere, with any resource, and at any moment. Innovations' ubiquitous nature is evident in every corner of our rapidly evolving world.  We firmly believe in the limitless potential of innovation, as anyone can ignite it, and it can ignite in any realm imaginable. Silicon Valley and other recognized innovation hubs do not have a lock on innovation or a secret sauce that cannot be modeled or improved upon.  It takes a willingness to put aside time, use your resources, explore the unknown, and expand your creativity (we all have it) beyond where you are today to see the non-obvious.  When you do, you will be like our Kentucky guests, revolutionizing in a non-traditional innovation hub and creating a non-high-tech innovation. As part of our Innovation Across America tours, we ventured across the country in our new mobile studio to Paducah, Kentucky. During the tour, we actively sought individuals pushing the boundaries and innovating “Beyond the Obvious.” In our show this week, we had the opportunity to interview the founders of Fin Gourmet Foods.  Started in 2010, Fin Gourmet is a Kentucky Proud Producer of wild-caught Asian Carp products.  So why Asian Carp? It has the highest source of healthy, clean protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, on par with wild-caught salmon.  Nowhere else in the world but the USA are Asian Carp wild-caught, and those from western KY are of the best quality. But more importantly, this innovation story is unique.  Fin's mission and vision are that the Asian Carp provide economic opportunities for communities, fostering job creation and revitalizing the inland fishing industry. Defining and Tackling a Problem Statement The team at Fin Gourmet defined the problems and challenges they encountered and engaged in disruptive ideation.  As an integral part of their innovation process, they considered some basic assumptions of innovation to create value, including:  Turn other people's trash into a product:Fin took the Asian Carp, an invasive species taking over the Mississippi and Ohio river systems, and he innovated a way to turn it into an excellent food source. Give opportunities to people overlooked:In addition to locating in a rural part of the country, Fin works with local halfway houses to offer jobs to former prison inmates and others down on their luck.  Training, teaching, and building a culture that values and leverages the abilities of all. Breathe life back into an industry overlooked by others: Fin pays a premium price for what many consider “trash” to help local independent fishing families to transition to this new species of fish and the economy it can support.  What is the Non-Obvious Innovation at Fin? Fin has two patented innovative processing techniques:  Debone Asian Carp fillets. Make all-natural surimi (Japanese fish paste) from the Carp without water or chemicals.  With their innovative model, process, and approach, Fin Gourmet is making a significant impact locally and globally with their products and story.  The Fin founders and fishermen like Ronny Hopkins better manage the Asian Carp so that our rivers/lakes/estuaries are better protected while employing people who need second chances from incarceration, drug court, domestic violence, and more. The ubiquitous nature of innovation is a remarkable phenomenon that defies the limitations of time, place, and resources. It serves as a testament to the infinite wellspring of human creativity and our unwavering commitment to progress. Whether it emerges from the humblest of workshops or arises amidst the chaos of our lives, innovation has the extraordinary power to reshape our world. It reminds us that brilliance can sprout from the most unexpected sources, and no idea should ever be underestimated or dismissed. Let us wholeheartedly embrace the limitless possibilities and foster a culture that not only recognizes but also nurtures the ubiquitous nature of innovation. Together, through our collective efforts, we pave the way for a future that is brighter, more awe-inspiring, and brimming with endless possibilities. To learn more about the ubiquitous nature of innovation, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: The Ubiquitous Nature of Innovation.  .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postImageUrl , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:visited , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active { border:0!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Continuing our Best of Killer Innovations series, we look at one manufacturer's innovative use of resources. This company's story is a testament to how innovation can unexpectedly occur anywhere, with any resource, and at any moment. Innovations' ubiquitous nature is evident in every corner of our rapidly evolving world.</p> <p></p> <p>We firmly believe in the limitless potential of innovation, as anyone can ignite it, and it can ignite in any realm imaginable. <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/the-secret-to-silicon-valleys-success/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Silicon Valley</a> and other recognized innovation hubs do not have a lock on innovation or a secret sauce that cannot be modeled or improved upon.  It takes a willingness to put aside time, use your resources, explore the unknown, and expand your <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/improve-creative-thinking/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">creativity</a> (we all have it) beyond where you are today to see the <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/what-does-innovation-culture-going-beyond-the-obvious-testing-ideas-and-storytelling-have-in-common/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">non-obvious</a>.  When you do, you will be like our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fingourmetfoods/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kentucky guests</a>, revolutionizing in a non-traditional innovation hub and creating a <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/killer-idea-simple-invention-solves-annoying-problem-in-the-game-of-golf/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">non-high-tech innovation</a>.</p> <p>As part of our Innovation Across America tours, we ventured across the country in our new mobile studio to Paducah, Kentucky. During the tour, we actively sought individuals pushing the boundaries and innovating “Beyond the Obvious.” In our show this week, we had the opportunity to interview the founders of <a href="https://fingourmetmarketplace.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fin Gourmet Foods</a>.  Started in 2010, Fin Gourmet is a Kentucky Proud Producer of wild-caught Asian Carp products.  So why Asian Carp? It has the highest source of healthy, clean protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, on par with wild-caught salmon.  Nowhere else in the world but the USA are Asian Carp wild-caught, and those from western KY are of the best quality. But more importantly, this <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/the-importance-of-stories-and-storytelling-to-innovation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">innovation story</a> is unique.  Fin's mission and vision are that the Asian Carp provide economic opportunities for<a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/innovation-communities/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> communities</a>, fostering job creation and revitalizing the inland fishing industry.</p> <h2>Defining and Tackling a Problem Statement</h2> <p>The team at Fin Gourmet <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/four-steps-to-better-brainstorm-problem-statements/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">defined the problems and challenges </a>they encountered and engaged in <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/how-to-create-a-disruptive-ideation-workshop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">disruptive ideation</a>.  As an integral part of their innovation process, they considered some basic assumptions of innovation to create value, including:</p> <ul> <li><a href="http://beyondtheobvious.com/finding-ways-offer-underused-resources/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Turn other people's trash into a product</strong></a><strong>:</strong>Fin took the Asian Carp, an invasive species taking over the Mississippi and Ohio river systems, and he innovated a way to turn it into an excellent food source.</li> <li><strong>Give opportunities to people overlooked:</strong>In addition to locating in a rural part of the country, Fin works with local halfway houses to offer jobs to former prison inmates and others down on their luck.  Training, teaching, and building a <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/innovation-culture-mean-matter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">culture</a> that values and leverages the abilities of all.</li> <li><strong>Breathe life back into an industry overlooked by others</strong>: Fin pays a premium price for what many consider “trash” to help local independent fishing families to transition to this new species of fish and the <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/ready-thrive-innovation-economy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">economy</a> it can support.</li> </ul> <h2>What is the Non-Obvious Innovation at Fin?</h2> <p>Fin has two patented innovative processing techniques:</p> <ol> <li>Debone Asian Carp fillets.</li> <li>Make all-natural surimi (Japanese fish paste) from the Carp without water or chemicals.</li> </ol> <p>With their innovative model, process, and approach, Fin Gourmet is making a significant impact locally and globally with their products and story.  The Fin founders and fishermen like Ronny Hopkins better manage the Asian Carp so that our rivers/lakes/estuaries are better protected while employing people who need second chances from incarceration, drug court, domestic violence, and more.</p> <p>The ubiquitous nature of innovation is a remarkable phenomenon that defies the limitations of time, place, and resources. It serves as a testament to the infinite wellspring of human creativity and our unwavering commitment to progress. Whether it emerges from the humblest of workshops or arises amidst the chaos of our lives, innovation has the extraordinary power to reshape our world. It reminds us that brilliance can sprout from the most unexpected sources, and no idea should ever be underestimated or dismissed. Let us wholeheartedly embrace the limitless possibilities and foster a culture that not only recognizes but also nurtures the ubiquitous nature of innovation. Together, through our collective efforts, we pave the way for a future that is brighter, more awe-inspiring, and brimming with endless possibilities.</p> <p>To learn more about the ubiquitous nature of innovation, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Innovation_Can_Happen_Anytime_Anywhere_to_Anyone.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: The Ubiquitous Nature of Innovation</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postImageUrl , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:visited , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active { border:0!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: The Ubiquitous Nature of Innovation

Resuming our Best of Killer Innovation Series, we hone in on six categories of essential KPIs that will help you successfully predict and keep track of crucial details that will allow you to run your organization smoothly.  This episode addresses questions from listeners on innovation KPIs.  After clocking 12,000 miles in the mobile Innovators Studio, I'm back in Colorado.  On the road, I talked with interesting innovators and analysts. Taking a break from interviews, I'd like to answer your questions on measuring innovation success. There are hundreds of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure innovation success. What are the right innovation KPIs to use?What KPIs will give insight into the innovation process?   KPIs should be unique to your organization.  Think through what KPIs will measure and how that can guide innovations and your organization. KPI Building Blocks I've broken innovation KPIs into categories, like building blocks.  Build up the blocks to get a complete perspective on your innovation effort. Six categories for Innovation KPIs: Idea process /managing the idea funnel  What's done to get ideas, put them in a funnel, review, manage and analyze them? Raw ideas Raw ideas validated Ideas prototyped Age of ideas    Idea commercialization  Innovation idea brought to market. Innovations that became a product Innovations that make a profit Are early customers willing to pay a margin premium? Innovations purchased resources in the organization aligning to make the product a reality?    Financial impact  Tough to measure – long lag from the time of investment to product launch in the market Revenue from new innovations Profit from innovations Revenue protected by patents Revenue from patent licensing    Customer impact  Customer success compared from old products to new innovation What has the latest product allowed customers to achieve? How many customers have shifted to new ones? Market share trend for innovation – grabbing from competitors?    Organizational impact  New products/services have an impact Can pull organization into the new category of focus  The ratio of sales from old versus new – sales ramping up for further/declining for old? The ratio of profit from old versus new Investments – Is investment shifting from old to new? Rate of return on innovation investment Has it driven brand awareness?    Pure Innovation KPIs  Catch-all Staff trained for innovation Use of formal creativity tool Implementation and use of Idea Management System Structured problem-solving tools Committed resources to innovation Patents/year    Guidance  Pick three to five essential KPIs from each category that work for your organization. Ensure you can measure them. Validate KPIs that drive the correct behaviorand achieve the desired outcome. Test/adjust KPIs as needed. Share with the community.  We'd love your feedback.  What do you think about the five-minute focus in the last segment of today's show? Like what you hear?  Leave us a comment or review where you listen to the show. We post on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.  Follow us on your favorite social media site. To learn more about KPIs, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Essential KPIs.  .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postImageUrl , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:visited , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active { border:0!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Resuming our Best of Killer Innovation Series, we hone in on six categories of essential KPIs that will help you successfully predict and keep track of crucial details that will allow you to run your organization smoothly.</p> <p></p> <p>This episode addresses questions from listeners on innovation KPIs.  After clocking 12,000 miles in the mobile Innovators Studio, I'm back in Colorado.  On the road, I talked with <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/in-real-time-live-streaming-innovation/#more-5745" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">interesting innovators </a>and <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/innovation-standouts-ces-2018/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">analyst</a>s. Taking a break from interviews, I'd like to answer your questions on measuring <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/innovation-attitude-innovation-success/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">innovation success</a>.</p> <p>There are hundreds of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/6-ways-to-measure-innovation-success-that-every-company-should-put-in-place/#more-7788" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">measure innovation success</a>.<em> What are the right innovation KPIs to use?</em><em>What KPIs will give insight into the innovation process?   </em>KPIs should be unique to your organization.  Think through what KPIs will measure and how that can guide innovations and your organization.</p> <h2>KPI Building Blocks</h2> <p>I've broken innovation KPIs into categories, like building blocks.  Build up the blocks to get a complete perspective on your innovation effort.</p> <p>Six categories for Innovation KPIs:</p> <h3>Idea <a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/5-steps-implementing-killer-innovation-process/#more-15097" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">process</a> /managing the idea funnel</h3> <ul> <li>What's done to get ideas, put them in a funnel, review, manage and analyze them?<br><ul> <li>Raw ideas</li> <li>Raw ideas validated</li> <li>Ideas prototyped</li> <li>Age of ideas</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h3>Idea commercialization</h3> <ul> <li>Innovation idea brought to market.<br><ul> <li>Innovations that became a product</li> <li>Innovations that make a profit</li> <li>Are early customers willing to pay a margin premium?</li> <li>Innovations purchased</li> <li>resources in the organization aligning to make the product a reality?</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h3><a href="https://www.philmckinney.com/can-you-measure-the-impact-from-innovation/#more-2994" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Financial impact</a></h3> <ul> <li>Tough to measure – long lag from the time of investment to product launch in the market<br><ul> <li>Revenue from new innovations</li> <li>Profit from innovations</li> <li>Revenue protected by patents</li> <li>Revenue from patent licensing</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h3>Customer impact</h3> <ul> <li>Customer success compared from old products to new innovation<br><ul> <li>What has the latest product allowed customers to achieve?</li> <li>How many customers have shifted to new ones?</li> <li>Market share trend for innovation – grabbing from competitors?</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h3>Organizational impact</h3> <ul> <li>New products/services have an impact</li> <li>Can pull organization into the <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/refocusing-innovation-future-s13-ep53/#more-5756" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">new category of focus</a> <ul> <li>The ratio of sales from old versus new – sales ramping up for further/declining for old?</li> <li>The ratio of profit from old versus new</li> <li>Investments – Is investment shifting from old to new?</li> <li>Rate of return on innovation investment</li> <li>Has it driven <em>brand awareness</em>?</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h3>Pure Innovation KPIs</h3> <ul> <li>Catch-all<br><ul> <li>Staff trained for innovation</li> <li>Use of formal <a href="https://innovation.tools/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">creativity tool</a></li> <li>Implementation and use of Idea Management System</li> <li>Structured problem-solving tools</li> <li>Committed resources to innovation</li> <li>Patents/year</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h2>Guidance</h2> <ol> <li>Pick three to five essential KPIs from each category that work for your organization.</li> <li>Ensure you can measure them.</li> <li>Validate KPIs that <em>drive the correct behavior</em>and <em>achieve the desired outcome</em>.</li> <li>Test/adjust KPIs as needed.</li> <li>Share with the community.</li> </ol> <p>We'd love your feedback.  What do you think about the five-minute focus in the last segment of today's show?</p> <p>Like what you hear?  Leave us a comment or review where you listen to the show. We post on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.  Follow us on your favorite social media site.</p> <p>To learn more about KPIs, listen to this week's show: <em><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Essential_KPIs.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>The Best of Killer Innovations: Essential KPIs</strong></a><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postImageUrl , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:visited , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active { border:0!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: Essential KPIs

Sometimes, life surprises us with moments of reflection. I remember vividly having a captivating conversation with a taxi driver. While stuck in traffic on my way to the airport after hosting a South by Southwest meet-up on neural diversity hiring, he curiously asked about the key to my success. His question inspired me to jot down my 7 rules to live by. Continuing with the Best of Killer Innovations, I share them with you in the hope that they'll assist you in achieving personal and professional triumphs.  My 7 Rules to Live By Stay connected to the people who matter most. Keep in touch personally, not just electronically. Nurture deep relationships with loved ones. Listen more, talk less. Be genuinely interested in others, actively listen, and ask questions—end conversations by offering help. Make commitments you're genuinely committed to. Don't make false promises. If you can't deliver, be honest and find alternative solutions. Don't get caught up in credit. Credit will find its rightful owner. Embrace teamwork and acknowledge others' contributions. Acknowledge and encourage others. Success is a result of collective effort. Express gratitude and provide words of encouragement. Handle criticism with compassion. Pause before responding. Count to ten or wait a day. Choose compassion over rudeness. Seek advice before reacting. Set priorities based on the “5 Fs.” Faith, Family, Friends, Fitness, and Finance. Filter demands based on these priorities. Now that you have my 7 rules to live by, create your own set to achieve personal and professional success. Before you start, let me just tell you one thing: success is personal, so your set of rules should be, too. Think about what matters to you, what principles guide you, what values you hold dear. Create a set of rules that aligns with them. And don't forget to make them actionable, measurable, and realistic. Remember, these rules to live by are not a one-time thing. They're a continuous practice that helps you grow, learn, and become a better version of yourself. To learn more about rules to live by, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: 7 Rules to Live By.  .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postImageUrl , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:visited , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active { border:0!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Sometimes, life surprises us with moments of reflection. I remember vividly having a captivating conversation with a taxi driver. While stuck in traffic on my way to the airport after hosting a South by Southwest meet-up on neural diversity hiring, he curiously asked about the key to my success. His question inspired me to jot down my 7 rules to live by. Continuing with the Best of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/killerinnovations" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Killer Innovations</a>, I share them with you in the hope that they'll assist you in achieving personal and professional triumphs.</p> <p></p> <h2>My 7 Rules to Live By</h2> <h3>Stay connected to the people who matter most.</h3> <p>Keep in touch personally, not just electronically. Nurture deep relationships with loved ones.</p> <h3>Listen more, talk less.</h3> <p>Be genuinely interested in others, actively listen, and ask questions—end conversations by offering help.</p> <h3>Make commitments you're genuinely committed to.</h3> <p>Don't make false promises. If you can't deliver, be honest and find alternative solutions.</p> <h3>Don't get caught up in credit.</h3> <p>Credit will find its rightful owner. Embrace teamwork and acknowledge others' contributions.</p> <h3>Acknowledge and encourage others.</h3> <p>Success is a result of collective effort. Express gratitude and provide words of encouragement.</p> <h3>Handle criticism with compassion.</h3> <p>Pause before responding. Count to ten or wait a day. Choose compassion over rudeness. Seek advice before reacting.</p> <h3>Set priorities based on the “5 Fs.”</h3> <p>Faith, Family, Friends, Fitness, and Finance. Filter demands based on these priorities.</p> <p>Now that you have my 7 rules to live by, create your own set to achieve personal and professional success. Before you start, let me just tell you one thing: success is personal, so your set of rules should be, too. Think about what matters to you, what <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/the-best-of-killer-innovations-my-innovation-library/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">principles</a> guide you, what values you hold dear. Create a set of rules that aligns with them. And don't forget to make them actionable, measurable, and realistic. Remember, these rules to live by are not a one-time thing. They're a continuous practice that helps you grow, learn, and become a better version of yourself.</p> <p>To learn more about rules to live by, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Seven_Rules_to_Live_By.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: 7 Rules to Live By</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postImageUrl , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:visited , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active { border:0!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: 7 Rules to Live By

Picking up with our Best of Killer Innovation Series, we delve deeper into the art of making ideas reality by following a proper execution plan.  In this episode, we wrap up a series of shows we did on the innovation framework known as FIRE. We will discuss the part of the innovation framework known as execution. Execution is composed of making your best ideas into something tangible. Execution I have used the FIRE (Focus, Ideation, Ranking, Execution) framework for over 20 years, and thousands of organizations use it.  Focus is defining where your problem area is. Ideation is the process of creating ideas to address your problem areas. The process consists of individual and team ideation, which, when combined, generates 30% more ideas than when done individually. Ranking is where you prioritize your ideas. This process is through dot/wow voting and criteria ranking. Execution, the last element of the FIRE framework, is how one turns ideas into innovation—done through two phases: testing and validation and launching the MVP (Minimum viable product). Execution is not easy. 92% of CEOs say innovation is critical to their organization, but only 35% have confidence in executing these ideas.  What to Expect In my opinion, innovation consists of ideas made real. I constantly repeat one quote: “Ideas without execution are a hobby, and I'm not in the hobby business.” At this point, you've ranked your ideas, but need to figure out how to make these ideas a real innovation. Going into this, you won't know all of the answers. Expect a very messy process because there might not be a clear path from point A to point B. It would help if you were adaptable and ready to learn things. It would be best if you innovated around the idea frequently. Be okay with an unexpected outcome, as the process is an experiment. Innovation projects have to be measured differently than a typical product development project. One of the measurements of success is learning throughout the process. Stay away from innovation antibodies. Innovation causes conflict, prompting these antibodies to come out. These include ego response (stepping on someone's toes), fatigue (people who have tried and failed at it before), no risk response (CFO or legal counsel), and comfort response (we don't need to change). Steps of Execution The first step to making an idea real is creating the pitch. The pitch is your way of telling the story around your idea, also known as strategic storytelling. The key is to tell your idea's story so that others see what life will be like when your idea is delivered. The second step is to create the funnel. There are four funnel gates: market validation, customer validation, limited launch, and global launch. The key here is to convey that not all ideas will go forward.  Market validation is where you ask if the problem exists. One way to do this is through gorilla idea validation. Talk to people you don't know to get brutally honest feedback rather than people you know who might tell you what you want to hear. Customer validation is where you see if your idea solves the customer's problem.  I use the Michelle test. I would take a product we built at HP, bring it home, and leave it on the counter for my wife. She would take it out of the box and use it, giving it her honest evaluation. Because my wife is not a technology person, I would receive some solid feedback from a different perspective.  A limited launch is where you launch in a limited space. I use the buy test to build and advertise a product, putting it into retail stores like a launch. When people try to buy it, you give it to them for free in return for their feedback. Global launch is where you put your pedal to the metal and push the product out. At this point, you've gone through all of the steps and should have confidence in your product's success.  Making Ideas: Reality This week's show focused on taking all of your ideas and making them a reality. Many innovators have great ideas but struggle to find funding. There could be an issue with their pitch. Learn and readjust the pitch and understand all the elements that go into it. When Steve Jobs and Apple worked on the iPhone, the product was ready three years before the launch. They knew they needed to wait for a faster processor and another generation of touch screens. They had the discipline and patience to stay, which paid off in the long run. I used the lean canvas to help my team stay on track and focused. The innovation lean canvas is in place of a typical plan. It is an overview of the critical areas at a glance, which frequently updates as the product evolves. Check out the Disruptive Ideation Workshop here to teach your team the FIRE framework. If you are interested in learning more about execution or want information from previous shows, check out all the free downloadable material I put together here. To learn more about the art of making ideas reality, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: The Art of Making Ideas Reality.  .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Picking up with our Best of Killer Innovation Series, we delve deeper into the art of making ideas reality by following a proper execution plan.</p> <p></p> <p>In this episode, we wrap up a series of shows we did on the innovation framework known as FIRE. We will discuss the part of the innovation framework known as execution. Execution is composed of making your best ideas into something tangible.</p> <h2>Execution</h2> <p>I have used the FIRE (Focus, Ideation, Ranking, Execution) framework for over 20 years, and thousands of organizations use it.</p> <ul> <li><em>Focus </em>is defining where your problem area is.</li> <li><a href="https://killerinnovations.com/ideation-how-to-generate-more-and-better-ideas/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><em>Ideation</em></a> is the process of creating ideas to address your problem areas. The process consists of individual and team ideation, which, when combined, generates 30% more ideas than when done individually.</li> <li><a href="https://killerinnovations.com/how-to-select-the-best-ideas/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><em>Ranking</em></a> is where you prioritize your ideas. This process is through dot/wow voting and criteria ranking.</li> <li><em>Execution, </em>the last element of the FIRE framework, is how one turns ideas into innovation—done through two phases: testing and validation and launching the MVP (Minimum viable product). Execution is not easy. 92% of CEOs say innovation is critical to their organization, but only 35% have confidence in executing these ideas.</li> </ul> <h2>What to Expect</h2> <p>In my opinion, innovation consists of ideas made real. I constantly repeat one quote: “Ideas without execution are a hobby, and I'm not in the hobby business.” At this point, you've ranked your ideas, but need to figure out how to make these ideas a real innovation. Going into this, you won't know all of the answers. Expect a very messy process because there might not be a clear path from point A to point B.</p> <p>It would help if you were adaptable and ready to learn things. It would be best if you innovated around the idea frequently. Be okay with an unexpected outcome, as the process is an experiment. Innovation projects have to be measured differently than a typical product development project. One of the measurements of success is learning throughout the process. Stay away from <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/8-ways-to-deal-with-innovation-antibodies-who-are-blocking-you-s12-ep10/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">innovation antibodies</a>. Innovation causes conflict, prompting these antibodies to come out. These include ego response (stepping on someone's toes), fatigue (people who have tried and failed at it before), no risk response (CFO or legal counsel), and comfort response (we don't need to change).</p> <h2>Steps of Execution</h2> <p>The first step to making an idea real is creating the pitch. The pitch is your way of telling the story around your idea, also known as <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/better-ways-to-co-innovation-and-strategic-storytelling/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">strategic storytelling</a>. The key is to tell your idea's story so that others see what life will be like when your idea is delivered.</p> <p>The second step is to create the funnel. There are four funnel gates: <em>market validation, customer validation, limited launch, and global launch</em>. The key here is to convey that not all ideas will go forward.</p> <ul> <li><em>Market validation </em>is where you ask if the problem exists. One way to do this is through gorilla idea validation. Talk to people you don't know to get brutally honest feedback rather than people you know who might tell you what you want to hear.</li> <li><em>Customer validation </em>is where you see if your idea solves the customer's problem.</li> </ul> <p><strong>I use the Michelle test</strong>. I would take a product we built at HP, bring it home, and leave it on the counter for my wife. She would take it out of the box and use it, giving it her honest evaluation. Because my wife is not a technology person, I would receive some solid feedback from a different perspective.</p> <ul> <li>A <em>limited launch </em>is where you launch in a limited space. I use the buy test to build and advertise a product, putting it into retail stores like a launch. When people try to buy it, you give it to them for free in return for their feedback.</li> <li><em>Global launch </em>is where you put your pedal to the metal and push the product out. At this point, you've gone through all of the steps and should have confidence in your product's success.</li> </ul> <h2>Making Ideas: Reality</h2> <p>This week's show focused on taking all of your ideas and making them a reality. Many innovators have great ideas but struggle to find funding. There could be an issue with their <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/7-parts-to-an-innovation-pitch-for-your-idea-s11-ep50/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pitch</a>. Learn and readjust the pitch and understand all the elements that go into it.</p> <p>When Steve Jobs and Apple worked on the iPhone, the product was ready three years before the launch. They knew they needed to wait for a faster processor and another generation of touch screens. They had the discipline and patience to stay, which paid off in the long run.</p> <p>I used the lean canvas to help my team stay on track and focused. The innovation lean canvas is in place of a typical plan. It is an overview of the critical areas at a glance, which frequently updates as the product evolves.</p> <p>Check out the Disruptive Ideation Workshop<a href="https://disruptiveideation.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> here </a>to teach your team the FIRE framework.</p> <p>If you are interested in learning more about execution or want information from previous shows, check out all the free downloadable material I put together <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/download-free-innovation-toolkit-resources/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p>To learn more about the art of making ideas reality, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/The_Art_of_Making_Ideas_Reality.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: The Art of Making Ideas Reality</a>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: The Art of Making Ideas Reality

Returning to our Best of Killer Innovations series, we kick this week off with a look back at vital innovation skills. This foundation can help beginner and seasoned innovators stay ahead in an evolving world.  What innovation skills are needed to create new ideas and products successfully? Many people often find themselves void of creativity in the innovation world. This stems from a deeper issue. We dive into more detail to discover what innovation skills separate those with limited success from those with continual success. The skill sets that can allow you to be successful no matter your organization type, size, or geographical location all have the same foundational elements. Self-Confidence in Creativity The number one skill set I have discussed is self-confidence in your creativity. We were all born highly creative. From an early age, the education system drives creativity out of us. Grade school through college teach children conformity, instilling the belief that acting the same is crucial to relevance. Then, in our professional careers, we are expected to think differently, be more creative, and generate solutions despite sixteen or more years of being drilled in conformity. It's no myth that CEOs recruit creativity. Creativity drives innovation. It's a catalyst for growth in a business. If you are not exercising your creativity and unlocking its potential, you could become irrelevant because of conformity. Bravery Another essential skill set is bravery. The opposite of innovation bravery is conformity. You need to go out and apply your creativity. Share your thoughts and ideas. Take some risks. Try something you haven't done before. The fear and feeling of failure a detrimental mind block because it holds us back and kills our bravery. You have to get over the fear of failure to be brave. Step out, get permission, or permit to go, and fail. Go out, experiment, test the limits, break the norm, and be brave. Seeing with Fresh Eyes One vital skill set that gets harder to use as you get more experienced and set in your ways is your perspective. Seeing with fresh eyes and having a beginner's mind will guide you to develop breakout products and services. Don't let your area of expertise cloud your vision but come into every new project with an attitude of openness. Every year of experience in your area of expertise can enable you to become more and more closed off to different approaches or new opportunities if you are not careful. By adopting an open-minded approach, you can avoid getting caught up in a limiting cycle of repetitive groupthink. Ability to Craft &amp; Ask Great Questions How does one get creative thoughts and ideas flowing? The answer is by asking questions. Questions hold great power. They get people thinking. There are simple ‘yes' or ‘no' questions, leading questions, and questions you craft to discover. The power of creating and collecting your questions is critical in the innovation world. It will help you develop new ideas and eliminate problems. Coming in as a new leader, I crafted four questions to gain a unique insight. Creating these questions is vital to deriving input from your team, vendors, partners, leaders, and potential beneficiaries of your idea. Continually developing different ways of asking a question can generate unique discoveries. For instance, if I ask you, “What is half of thirteen?” and you respond, “Six and a half,” I would give you an ‘A' on a math test, but in innovation, I would give you a ‘C.' Why? The reason is that you stopped at the first obvious answer. What if I craft the question slightly differently and ask how many ways you can convey half of thirteen? There are more ways than one, and how creative you can get would surprise you. To help, I've crafted a card deck that asks questions from various angles to challenge you to think differently. Learning how to reword questions and uniquely ask them will give you a skill that generates new insights. The power of questions is critical in the innovation game. Begin creating, crafting, and collecting your questions today. Dealing with Innovation Antibodies One skill we need, but tend to overlook, is the ability to deal with innovation antibodies. When operating in the world of innovation, opposition often occurs. People may feel threatened by your idea for one reason or another. These people act as innovation antibodies, attacking your idea. How do you deal with this issue? No matter where you are in innovation, you will encounter different responses and have to learn to work through them. Here are the types of responses you will need to work through:  Ego Response– The jealousy of your idea comes from an authority position. Share some of the idea/give credit to get around these people Fatigue Response– “I've tried that before.” Treat them as an adviser to help your idea No-Risk Response – “That's too risky.” Empathize with them and take risks seriously Comfort Response –”We don't need change. We're doing good.” Show them that things will not be good forever  Have you dealt with an innovation antibody in your organization? What category would you put them in? Do others call you an innovation antibody? If so, what type are you? Innovation Attitude An essential skill set vital to success is an innovation attitude permeating your culture. I use the following easy-to-remember acronym CARE to keep an innovative outlook.  C – Candor – freely share your creative thoughts and ideas with others. Be respectful but be honest and encourage openness among yourselves and others. Invite them to act as an innovation antibody, even on your ideas. If you don't share your thoughts and ideas, they don't become genuine innovations—they have zero value. A – Action – Act on ideas that will impact your organization. Take charge to enable progress and lean in. Provide solutions to issues both big and small regardless of if it is your idea. Don't let good ideas become stale simply because it wasn't your idea. Instead, please take action to drive them forward. R – Risk – Understand the uncertainty and risk of trying new ideas. Take calculated risks or act on perceived threats. Get rid of perceived risks—many are not real risks. Learn from experiments and calculated risks. Understand how to manage risks and push forward. E – Empower – Trust yourself and others to make a difference. Feel like you are empowered and have permission. Empower others and encourage leaders to empower—enable permission.  Let's connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know. The email address is feedback@philmckinney.com, or you can go to PhilMcKinney.com and drop me a message there. If you are looking for innovation support, go to TheInnovators.Network or want to be challenged to develop the next big idea? Check out our Disruptive Ideation Workshops. Don't forget to join our Innovators Community to enjoy more conversations around innovation. To learn more about the ingredients for innovation success, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Six Vital Innovation Skills.  .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postImageUrl , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:visited , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active { border:0!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Returning to our Best of Killer Innovations series, we kick this week off with a look back at vital innovation skills. This foundation can help beginner and seasoned innovators stay ahead in an evolving world.</p> <p></p> <p>What innovation skills are needed to create new ideas and products successfully? Many people often find themselves void of creativity in the innovation world. This stems from a deeper issue. We dive into more detail to discover what innovation skills separate those with limited success from those with continual success. The skill sets that can allow you to be successful no matter your organization type, size, or geographical location all have the same foundational elements.</p> <h2>Self-Confidence in Creativity</h2> <p>The number one skill set I have discussed is self-confidence in your creativity. We were all born highly creative. From an early age, the education system drives creativity out of us. Grade school through college teach children conformity, instilling the belief that acting the same is crucial to relevance. Then, in our professional careers, we are expected to think differently, be more creative, and generate solutions despite sixteen or more years of being drilled in conformity. It's no myth that CEOs recruit creativity. Creativity drives innovation. It's a catalyst for growth in a business. If you are not exercising your creativity and unlocking its potential, you could become irrelevant because of conformity.</p> <h2>Bravery</h2> <p>Another essential skill set is bravery. The opposite of innovation bravery is conformity. You need to go out and apply your creativity. Share your thoughts and ideas. Take some risks. Try something you haven't done before. The fear and feeling of failure a detrimental mind block because it holds us back and kills our bravery. You have to get over the fear of failure to be brave. Step out, get permission, or permit to go, and fail. Go out, experiment, test the limits, <a href="https://philmckinney.com/be-willing-to-be-weird/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">break the norm, and be brave</a>.</p> <h2>Seeing with Fresh Eyes</h2> <p>One vital skill set that gets harder to use as you get more experienced and set in your ways is your perspective. Seeing with fresh eyes and having a beginner's mind will guide you to develop breakout products and services. Don't let your area of expertise cloud your vision but come into every new project with an attitude of openness. Every year of experience in your area of expertise can enable you to become more and more closed off to different approaches or new opportunities if you are not careful. By adopting an open-minded approach, you can avoid getting caught up in a limiting cycle of repetitive groupthink.</p> <h2>Ability to Craft &amp; Ask Great Questions</h2> <p>How does one get creative thoughts and ideas flowing? The answer is by asking questions. Questions hold great power. They get people thinking. There are simple ‘yes' or ‘no' questions, leading questions, and questions you craft to discover. The power of creating and collecting your questions is critical in the innovation world. It will help you develop new ideas and eliminate problems. Coming in as a new leader, I crafted four questions to gain a unique insight. Creating these questions is vital to deriving input from your team, vendors, partners, leaders, and potential beneficiaries of your idea.</p> <p>Continually developing different ways of asking a question can generate unique discoveries. For instance, if I ask you, “What is half of thirteen?” and you respond, “Six and a half,” I would give you an ‘A' on a math test, but in innovation, I would give you a ‘C.' Why? The reason is that you stopped at the first obvious answer. What if I craft the question slightly differently and ask how many ways you can convey half of thirteen? There are more ways than one, and how creative you can get would surprise you.</p> <p>To help, I've crafted a card deck that asks questions from various angles to challenge you to think differently. Learning how to reword questions and uniquely ask them will give you a skill that generates new insights. The power of questions is critical in the innovation game. Begin creating, crafting, and collecting your questions today.</p> <h2>Dealing with Innovation Antibodies</h2> <p>One skill we need, but tend to overlook, is the ability to deal with <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/8-ways-to-deal-with-innovation-antibodies-who-are-blocking-you-s12-ep10/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">innovation antibodies</a>. When operating in the world of innovation, opposition often occurs. People may feel threatened by your idea for one reason or another. These people act as innovation antibodies, attacking your idea. How do you deal with this issue? No matter where you are in innovation, you will encounter different responses and have to learn to work through them.</p> <p>Here are the types of responses you will need to work through:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Ego Response</strong>– The jealousy of your idea comes from an authority position. Share some of the idea/give credit to get around these people</li> <li><strong>Fatigue Response</strong>– “I've tried that before.” Treat them as an adviser to help your idea</li> <li><strong>No-Risk Response</strong> – “That's too risky.” Empathize with them and take risks seriously</li> <li><strong>Comfort Response</strong> –”We don't need change. We're doing good.” Show them that things will not be good forever</li> </ul> <p>Have you dealt with an innovation antibody in your organization? What category would you put them in? Do others call you an innovation antibody? If so, what type are you?</p> <h2>Innovation Attitude</h2> <p>An essential skill set vital to success is an innovation attitude permeating your culture. I use the following easy-to-remember acronym CARE to keep an innovative outlook.</p> <ul> <li><strong>C – </strong><strong>Candor</strong> – freely share your creative thoughts and ideas with others. Be respectful but be honest and encourage openness among yourselves and others. Invite them to act as an innovation antibody, even on your ideas. If you don't share your thoughts and ideas, they don't become genuine innovations—they have zero value.</li> <li><strong>A – </strong><strong>Action</strong> – Act on ideas that will impact your organization. Take charge to enable progress and lean in. Provide solutions to issues both big and small regardless of if it is your idea. Don't let good ideas become stale simply because it wasn't your idea. Instead, please take action to drive them forward.</li> <li><strong>R – </strong><strong>Risk</strong> – Understand the uncertainty and risk of trying new ideas. Take calculated risks or act on perceived threats. Get rid of perceived risks—many are not real risks. Learn from experiments and calculated risks. Understand how to manage risks and push forward.</li> <li><strong>E – </strong><strong>Empowe</strong>r – Trust yourself and others to make a difference. Feel like you are empowered and have permission. Empower others and encourage leaders to empower—enable permission.</li> </ul> <p>Let's connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know. The email address is feedback@philmckinney.com, or you can go to <a href="https://philmckinney.com/be-willing-to-be-weird/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PhilMcKinney.com</a> and drop me a message there. If you are looking for innovation support, go to <a href="https://theinnovators.network/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TheInnovators.Network </a>or want to be challenged to develop the next big idea? Check out our <a href="https://disruptiveideation.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disruptive Ideation Workshops</a>. Don't forget to join our <a href="https://www.theinnovators.community/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Innovators Community </a>to enjoy more conversations around innovation.</p> <p>To learn more about the ingredients for innovation success, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Six_Vital_Innovation_Skills.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: Six Vital Innovation Skills</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postImageUrl , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:visited , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active { border:0!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: Six Vital Innovation Skills

Resuming our Best of Killer Innovation series, we look at key ingredients to build innovation success for organizations.  The Innovation Success Formula Innovation is about translating ideas into products, services, and solutions. Ideas without execution are a hobby.  Is your organization in the business of Innovation? This episode boils it down to a simple equation. Ideas + Innovation Culture = Innovation Success.  The process starts with ideas and the management of them.  But ideas won't develop and thrive without the right culture.  Core Attributes are about setting the basis for Innovation Culture.  When you set up a good system of gathering ideas and lay a foundation for an innovation culture, innovation success ensues. Creating Order from the Brainstorm of Ideas The process starts with ideas coming from many sources.  Then comes the question of how to manage your ideas.  How do you log, track and rank them?  Where are your ideas today in the innovation lifecycle?  What about all the brainstorming sessions over the last few years… could you quickly put your hand on the list of those ideas?  Ideas have value over time. The Idea Management System, Step By Step If you believe ideas are the economy's currency, you need to manage ideas as a valued asset for innovation success.  Treat ideas as valuable asset. What's needed in an idea management system? Idea capture and tracking  It is an easy way to put ideas in the system, track them over time, evaluate them, and link them to other ideas that could grow into something significant. Done by people on the innovation team but also open to other people in the organization who can submit an idea easily – have one place to look for all assets  Idea evaluation – some form of an idea evaluation tool that allows management to assess and look at ideas more closely  Does everyone in the organization look at it and vote Use a ranking process like F-Focus, I-Ideation, R-Ranking, E-Execution Crowdsource feedback  The system must allow for Ad Hoc Team Collaboration  As people submit an idea, people can search the system to see if someone has a similar idea across the organization – can team up, combine efforts and areas of expertise Social hub of Innovation within an organization Get better ideas – cross-organizational efforts – collaborations that generate exciting ideas  Supports whatever your organization's process is for Innovation  The tool needs to match today's and even tomorrow's process Track ideas through the gating process your organization uses Follows phases of Innovation used A lot of tools out there that force you to follow their process – be careful – you need a tool that follows your process.  Needs to support pausing ideas  The difference between a good idea and a great idea is not about the idea.  It's about the timing. Market, customer, organization, and government regulations are not ready for many reasons. The key is you always need the ability to pause the idea – capture it so that you can pause and pull out an idea later when the timing is right  Ability to issue challenges  Don't run an idea management system like an electronic suggestion box – ideas will become incremental For breakthrough ideas, issue challenges: carefully worded questions, problems, and areas of interest put out to the general population with some form of incentive for spending time thinking about ideas/approaches that will answer or solve that in the form of ideas Well-constructed challenges (problem statement) generate a wealth of good ideas Gets org thinking – signaling where the org is going, what the direction of org is  My Experience With These Tools Without a system or tool, you are lost  You have to treat them as a valuable asset  Don't restrict access to the tool  Open it up to 100 percent of your organization You have to trust your employees  Promote your tool  Get people to engage on the tool providing their feedback This becomes the mechanism by which ideas are trained and tracked Promote constantly and consistently  Close the loop with the idea submitters  If someone submits an idea, they need to hear back Give them feedback  Think about applying some form of gamification  Make it fun Please give them a point or scoring system  Core Attributes When I took over a new role as CEO, I set out a hundred-day plan looking at the organization and figuring out what made it tick.  I spent a significant amount of time doing one on one interviews with all the key stakeholders.  I asked them four questions:  What should we preserve? What should we stop doing? What is it that you most hope I do? What do you expect I do not do?  Ninety-five percent of employees feared that the new CEO would not change anything.  They understood that some things needed to be changed for the company to flourish.  I realized that I had to build the core attributes from scratch. So, how do you do that?  The key is to help everyone understand why core attributes are so important.  What is it the team wants the organization to become?  Core attributes articulate what you stand for.  The ones we came up with are:  We need to be passionate We think big and bold We are fast and agile We are a team We unlock individual potential We lead by example We are resourceful  Once you have captured this, you are ready to start the process.  Having the list is the beginning of the process. The senior executives must own this; the senior executives must always control this. We must manage the process to get everyone on board with the innovation culture.  It communicates the process and displays the core attributes.  Instead of telling people these are the core attributes, we published them and invited people to come in as part of group sessions. Core Attributes Impact Innovation Success We collected a list of core attributes employees liked and helped brainstorm recommendations for the executive team about how we could live it.  We have included core attributes in our performance management.  Employees are assessed on those core attributes at the end of the year.  The impact on the organization was beyond anything I expected.  It is not a static and never-ending process but develops a practical framework for an innovation culture that drives success. To learn more about the ingredients for innovation success, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Key Ingredients for Innovation Success.  .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Resuming our Best of Killer Innovation series, we look at key ingredients to build innovation success for organizations.</p> <p></p> <h2>The Innovation Success Formula</h2> <p>Innovation is about translating ideas into products, services, and solutions. Ideas without execution are a hobby.  Is your organization in the <em>business</em> of Innovation? This episode boils it down to a simple equation. Ideas + Innovation Culture = Innovation Success.  The process starts with ideas and the management of them.  But ideas won't develop and thrive without the right culture.  Core Attributes are about setting the basis for Innovation Culture.  When you set up a good system of gathering ideas and lay a foundation for an innovation culture, innovation success ensues.</p> <h2>Creating Order from the Brainstorm of Ideas</h2> <p>The process starts with ideas coming from many sources.  Then comes the question of how to <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/five-ways-to-generate-new-ideas/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">manage your ideas</a>.  How do you log, track and rank them?  Where are your ideas today in the innovation lifecycle?  What about all the <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/how-to-run-a-next-generation-brainstorming-session-s11-ep47/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">brainstorming </a>sessions over the last few years… could you quickly put your hand on the list of those ideas?  Ideas have value over time.</p> <h2>The Idea Management System, Step By Step</h2> <p>If you believe ideas are the economy's currency, you need to manage ideas as a valued asset for innovation success.  Treat ideas as valuable asset.</p> <p>What's needed in an idea management system?</p> <h3>Idea capture and tracking</h3> <ul> <li>It is an easy way to put ideas in the system, track them over time, evaluate them, and link them to other ideas that could grow into something significant.</li> <li>Done by people on the innovation team but also open to other people in the organization who can submit an idea easily – have one place to look for all assets</li> </ul> <h3>Idea evaluation – some form of an idea evaluation tool that allows management to assess and look at ideas more closely</h3> <ul> <li>Does everyone in the organization look at it and vote</li> <li>Use a ranking process like <a href="https://beyondtheobvious.com/innovation-gap-innovation-delay/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">F-Focus, I-Ideation, R-Ranking, E-Execution</a></li> <li>Crowdsource feedback</li> </ul> <h3>The system must allow for Ad Hoc <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/innovation-through-collaboration/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Team Collaboration</a></h3> <ul> <li>As people submit an idea, people can search the system to see if someone has a similar idea across the organization – can team up, combine efforts and areas of expertise</li> <li>Social hub of Innovation within an <a href="https://www.theinnovators.community/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">org</a>anization</li> <li>Get better ideas – cross-organizational efforts – collaborations that generate exciting ideas</li> </ul> <h3>Supports whatever your organization's process is for Innovation</h3> <ul> <li>The tool needs to match today's and even tomorrow's process</li> <li>Track ideas through the gating process your organization uses</li> <li>Follows phases of Innovation used<br/> A lot of tools out there that force you to follow their process – be careful – you need a tool that follows your process.</li> </ul> <h3>Needs to support pausing ideas</h3> <ul> <li>The difference between a good idea and a great idea is not about the idea.  It's about the timing.</li> <li>Market, customer, organization, and government regulations are not ready for many reasons.</li> <li>The key is you always need the ability to pause the idea – capture it so that you can pause and pull out an idea later when the timing is right</li> </ul> <h3>Ability to issue challenges</h3> <ul> <li>Don't run an idea management system like an electronic suggestion box – ideas will become incremental</li> <li>For breakthrough ideas, issue challenges: carefully worded questions, problems, and areas of interest put out to the general population with some form of incentive for spending time thinking about ideas/approaches that will answer or solve that in the form of ideas</li> <li>Well-constructed challenges (<a href="https://killerinnovations.com/four-steps-to-better-brainstorm-problem-statements/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">problem statement</a>) generate a wealth of good ideas</li> <li>Gets org thinking – signaling where the org is going, what the direction of org is</li> </ul> <h2>My Experience With These Tools</h2> <p>Without a system or tool, you are lost</p> <ul> <li>You have to treat them as a valuable asset</li> </ul> <p>Don't restrict access to the tool</p> <ul> <li>Open it up to 100 percent of your organization</li> <li>You have to trust your employees</li> </ul> <p>Promote your tool</p> <ul> <li>Get people to engage on the tool providing their feedback</li> <li>This becomes the mechanism by which ideas are trained and tracked</li> <li>Promote constantly and consistently</li> </ul> <p>Close the loop with the idea submitters</p> <ul> <li>If someone submits an idea, they need to hear back</li> <li>Give them feedback</li> </ul> <p>Think about applying some form of gamification</p> <ul> <li>Make it fun</li> <li>Please give them a point or scoring system</li> </ul> <h2>Core Attributes</h2> <p>When I took over a new role as CEO, I set out a hundred-day plan looking at the organization and figuring out what made it tick.  I spent a significant amount of time doing one on one interviews with all the key stakeholders.  I asked them four questions:</p> <ul> <li>What should we preserve?</li> <li>What should we stop doing?</li> <li>What is it that you most hope I do?</li> <li>What do you expect I do not do?</li> </ul> <p>Ninety-five percent of employees feared that the new CEO would not change anything.  They understood that some things needed to be changed for the company to flourish.  I realized that I had to build the core attributes from scratch. So, how do you do that?  The key is to help everyone understand why <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/innovation-leadership-using-influence-for-success/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">core attributes </a>are so important.  What is it the team wants the organization to become?  Core attributes articulate what you stand for.  The ones we came up with are:</p> <ul> <li>We need to be passionate</li> <li>We think big and bold</li> <li>We are fast and agile</li> <li>We are a team</li> <li>We unlock individual potential</li> <li>We lead by example</li> <li>We are resourceful</li> </ul> <p>Once you have captured this, you are ready to start the process.  Having the list is the beginning of the process. The senior executives must own this; the senior executives must always control this. We must manage the process to get everyone on board with the<a href="https://philmckinney.com/the-ceo-innovation-dilemma-creating-an-innovation-culture-that-works/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> innovation culture</a>.  It communicates the process and displays the core attributes.  Instead of telling people these are the core attributes, we published them and invited people to come in as part of group sessions.</p> <h2>Core Attributes Impact Innovation Success</h2> <p>We collected a list of core attributes employees liked and helped brainstorm recommendations for the executive team about how we could live it.  We have included core attributes in our performance management.  Employees are assessed on those core attributes at the end of the year.  The impact on the organization was beyond anything I expected.  It is not a static and never-ending process but develops a practical framework for an innovation culture that drives success.</p> <p>To learn more about the ingredients for innovation success, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Key_Ingredients_for_Innovation_Success.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: Key Ingredients for Innovation Success</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: Key Ingredients for Innovation Success

Continuing our Best of Killer Innovations series, we focus on finding creative inspiration and incorporating creativity into all aspects of life. Creativity is a state of mind that can be achieved with practice, enabling you to stand out as an innovator.  Everyone is creative.  Yet some people seem more creative than others.  What do those people have that others might lack?  What's the secret to creativity? This week we talk about finding creative inspiration outside of work.  I'll share my thoughts on what makes people creative. We'll also hear Kym McNicholas interview Tania Katan.  Tania has just come out with a book called Creative Trespassing: How to Put the Spark and Joy into Your Work and Life. Finding Inspiration Humans use creativity every day to solve complex issues.  Some people are more creative than others in problem-solving.  How do these people manage to stay ahead of everyone else creatively?  First, these people are inspired. Find something piques your interest and drives you to go above and beyond, experiment, and learn.  You can find creative inspiration even at work. If you are passionate about your work, you are feeding your creativity. Practicing Creativity Another common denominator of creative people is that they practice creativity.  People do not just wake up already skilled at something. They have to practice it until they have mastered it.  Practice can be defined as two things:  To do repeated exercises for proficiency To pursue a profession actively  There is a myth that you can't practice creativity and innovation.  You can practice and become proficient. There are many ways to exercise your creative abilities.  There are exercises for the daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly practice of creative skills. Talking Creative Inspiration with Tania Katan Tania Katan shares with Kym McNicholas how people's creativity in their personal life can enhance their work.  Her book, Creative Trespassing: How to Put the Spark and Joy Back into Your Work and Life, examines the impact of bringing personal creative exercise into the workplace. Tania wrote this book because she saw a disconnect between people's creativity and what they did at their jobs during the day. Tania says that if you are looking for innovation, you must bring your creativity to your job.  We could solve problems with innovation if we put our creativity to work. The book contains exercises called “Productive Disruptions” throughout. These are creativity breaks. Stanford's study was called the “Walking Creativity Study.” This proved that people who went for walks experiencing creative blocks experienced 60 percent higher creativity afterward.  Disruptions and breaks are scientifically proven to help improve creativity. Many people don't enhance creativity because they don't have the right experience or training.  We must break through that barrier and ask “what if” questions. Stop trying to solve problems the same way and try creativity. Some of the most significant takeaways from the book are:  Our job does not have to be uniquely creative for us actually to be creative. We must feel free at the workplace to create a creative revolution inside our bodies, minds, and cubicles.  One of the biggest roadblocks to creativity is the fear of thinking and doing things differently. The best way to get through that obstacle is to face it. To learn more about finding creative inspiration, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Finding Creative Inspiration.  .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Continuing our Best of Killer Innovations series, we focus on finding creative inspiration and incorporating creativity into all aspects of life. Creativity is a state of mind that can be achieved with practice, enabling you to stand out as an innovator.</p> <p></p> <p>Everyone is creative.  Yet some people seem more creative than others.  What do those people have that others might lack?  What's the secret to creativity? This week we talk about finding creative inspiration outside of work.  I'll share my thoughts on what makes people creative. We'll also hear Kym McNicholas interview Tania Katan.  Tania has just come out with a book called <em>Creative Trespassing: How to Put the Spark and Joy into Your Work and Life</em>.</p> <h2>Finding Inspiration</h2> <p>Humans use creativity every day to <a href="https://philmckinney.com/leaders-innovation-theyre-creating-cultures-creativity/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">solve complex issues</a>.  Some people are more creative than others in problem-solving.  How do these people manage to stay ahead of everyone else creatively?  First, these people are inspired. Find something piques your interest and drives you to go above and beyond, experiment, and learn.  You can find creative inspiration even at work. If you are passionate about your work, you are feeding your <a href="https://philmckinney.com/10-ways-to-unleash-your-creativity-today/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">creativity</a>.</p> <h2>Practicing Creativity</h2> <p>Another common denominator of creative people is that they practice creativity.  People do not just wake up already skilled at something. They have to practice it until they have mastered it.  Practice can be defined as two things:</p> <ul> <li>To do repeated exercises for proficiency</li> <li>To pursue a profession actively</li> </ul> <p>There is a myth that you can't practice creativity and innovation.  You can practice and become proficient. There are many ways to exercise your creative abilities.  There are exercises for the daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/is-creative-thinking-based-on-nature-or-nurture/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">practice of creative skills</a>.</p> <h2>Talking Creative Inspiration with Tania Katan</h2> <p>Tania Katan shares with Kym McNicholas how people's creativity in their personal life can enhance their work.  Her book, <em>Creative Trespassing: How to Put the Spark and Joy Back into Your Work and Life</em>, examines the impact of bringing personal creative exercise into the workplace. Tania wrote this book because she saw a disconnect between people's creativity and what they did at their jobs during the day.</p> <p>Tania says that if you are looking for innovation, you must bring your creativity to your job.  We could solve problems with innovation if we put our creativity to work. The book contains exercises called “Productive Disruptions” throughout. These are creativity breaks. Stanford's study was called the “Walking Creativity Study.” This proved that<a href="https://killerinnovations.com/brain-health-for-innovation-and-creativity/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> people who went for walks</a> experiencing creative blocks experienced 60 percent higher creativity afterward.  Disruptions and breaks are scientifically proven to help improve creativity. Many people don't enhance creativity because they don't have the right experience or training.  We must break through that barrier and ask “what if” questions. Stop trying to solve problems the same way and try creativity.</p> <p>Some of the most significant takeaways from the book are:</p> <ul> <li>Our job does not have to be uniquely creative for us actually to be creative.</li> <li>We must feel free at the workplace to create a creative revolution inside our bodies, minds, and cubicles.</li> </ul> <p>One of the biggest roadblocks to creativity is the <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/overcome-impostor-syndrome-be-more-creative/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">fear</a> of thinking and doing things differently. The best way to get through that obstacle is to face it.</p> <p>To learn more about finding creative inspiration, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Finding_Creative_Inspiration.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: Finding Creative Inspiration</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: Finding  Creative Inspiration

Picking up our Best of Killer Innovations series, we examine in detail FOBO and how to overcome mental barriers that can hinder innovation.  The fear of a better option (FOBO) can paralyze decision-making. It is also the enemy of innovation.  In this episode, I share four ways to deal with FOBO. FOBO versus FOMO What is it that causes that hesitation at decision time? Patrick McGinnis calls it FOBO: the Fear of a Better Option. Patrick describes it as “paralyzed at the prospect of actually committing to something, out of fear that we might choose something that was not the perfect option.” The result is that you get stuck in analysis paralysis and never decide. The sister term to FOBO is FOMO, the Fear of Missing Out. If you miss out, you will not have that one magic piece of data that will give you perfect information. So, our fear of missing out feeds our fear of a better option. The result is saying “yes” to everything. I used to say “yes” to every request to speak or teach, no matter the impact on myself or my family. When you combine FOBO with FOMO, you can be afraid of doing anything. That is FODA, the paralysis that turns into a fear of doing anything. What I had to learn was to say “no.” Breakthrough came when a newspaper article about me forced me to go public with a secret that fed my imposter syndrome. I deal with FOMO by creating criteria for myself that help me prioritize the requests for my time and attention. FOBO in Innovation For innovation, deciding to move forward on an idea to commit to resources, such as people and money, is ripe for FOBO. A leader has hesitated to give a team the green light on a project because they are not yet convinced it is the best/perfect idea. No idea is a perfect idea. FOBO could mask a more general fear of failure. But not deciding means zero chance of an innovative idea. The primary objective is to innovate and to do that. It would be best if you tried your ideas. Come to terms with the fact that most of your ideas will fail.  FOBO, fearing a better option, is the enemy of innovation. It is the tool antibodies will use to brush off your ideas. FODA (the Fear of Doing Anything) When you combine FOBO and FOMO, you can find yourself paralyzed, not wanting to commit to anything. This is FODA, the Fear of Doing Anything. It would be best if you learned to be decisive. Here are four ways to deal with FOBO and not get caught in the trap of FODA:  The Ask and Watch method. Patrick McGinnis says to whittle your decision to two options. Assign each item to either the left or right side of your watch. Look down and see where the second hand is at the moment. Taking the final decision when you have two good options out of your control releases you from doubt. Criteria method. Create a clear criterion that works for you. Mine are the Five F’s: Faith, Family, Friends, Fitness, and Finances. Score requests on your time against your list of criteria. The Innovation = Ranking method. With innovation, use your funnel and ranking process to create a list of “next best ideas.” These are the ideas based on their ranking score from the FIRE framework. With the ranked lists of your ideas, force a decision that says something like each quarter, and we will fund the idea with the highest score. The Trust but Verify method. Apply the old Ronald Reagan maxim, “Trust your decision but verify.” If the decision is not delivering the result you expected, then adjust.  These four ways to deal with FOBO will help you be aware of your FODA and change.  We will never have perfect information and, therefore, will never make the ideal decision.  So, make your decision and move on. To learn more about the fear of a better option, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Dealing with FOBO (Fear of A Better Option).  .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postImageUrl , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:visited , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active { border:0!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Picking up our Best of Killer Innovations series, we examine in detail FOBO and how to overcome mental barriers that can hinder innovation.</p> <p></p> <p>The fear of a better option (FOBO) can paralyze decision-making. It is also the <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/being-content-is-the-enemy-of-innovation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">enemy of innovation</a>.  In this episode, I share four ways to deal with FOBO.</p> <h2>FOBO versus FOMO</h2> <p>What is it that causes that hesitation at decision time? Patrick McGinnis calls it FOBO: the<a href="https://killerinnovations.com/getting-comfortable-taking-innovation-risks-getting-over-your-fear-of-something-going-wrong/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fear </a>of a Better Option. Patrick describes it as “paralyzed at the prospect of actually committing to something, out of fear that we might choose something that was not the perfect option.” The result is that you get stuck in analysis paralysis and never decide. The sister term to FOBO is FOMO, the Fear of Missing Out. If you miss out, you will not have that one magic piece of data that will give you perfect information. So, our fear of missing out feeds our fear of a better option. The result is saying “yes” to everything. I used to say “yes” to every request to speak or teach, no matter the impact on myself or my family.</p> <p>When you combine FOBO with FOMO, you can be afraid of doing anything. That is FODA, the paralysis that turns into a fear of doing anything. What I had to learn was to say “no.” Breakthrough came when a newspaper article about me forced me to go public with a secret that fed my <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/an-innovator-with-impostor-syndrome/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">imposter syndrome</a>.</p> <p>I deal with FOMO by creating criteria for myself that help me prioritize the requests for my time and attention.</p> <h2>FOBO in Innovation</h2> <p>For innovation, deciding to move forward on an idea to commit to <a href="https://philmckinney.com/implement-law-resources-organization/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">resources</a>, such as people and money, is ripe for FOBO. A leader has hesitated to give a team the green light on a project because they are not yet convinced it is the best/perfect idea. No idea is a perfect idea. FOBO could mask a more general fear of failure. But not deciding means zero chance of an <a href="https://philmckinney.com/200-years-of-great-ideas-and-hard-work-led-to-the-overnight-success-of-your-smartphone-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">innovative idea</a>. The primary objective is to innovate and to do that. It would be best if you tried your ideas. Come to terms with the fact that most of your ideas will fail.  FOBO, fearing a better option, is the enemy of innovation. It is the tool <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/8-ways-to-deal-with-innovation-antibodies-who-are-blocking-you-s12-ep10/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">antibodies</a> will use to brush off your ideas.</p> <h2>FODA (the Fear of Doing Anything)</h2> <p>When you combine FOBO and FOMO, you can find yourself paralyzed, not wanting to commit to anything.</p> <p>This is FODA, the Fear of Doing Anything. It would be best if you learned to be decisive. Here are four ways to deal with FOBO and not get caught in the trap of FODA:</p> <ul> <li>The Ask and Watch method. Patrick McGinnis says to whittle your decision to two options. Assign each item to either the left or right side of your watch. Look down and see where the second hand is at the moment. Taking the final decision when you have two good options out of your control releases you from doubt.</li> <li>Criteria method. Create a clear criterion that works for you. Mine are the Five F’s: Faith, Family, Friends, Fitness, and Finances. Score requests on your time against your list of criteria.</li> <li>The Innovation = <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/ranking-your-ideas-how-to-make-sure-you-are-working-on-the-best-ideas/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ranking method</a>. With innovation, use your funnel and ranking process to create a list of “next best ideas.” These are the ideas based on their ranking score from the <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/?s=fire+framework&amp;submit=Search" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FIRE framework</a>. With the ranked lists of your ideas, force a decision that says something like each quarter, and we will fund the idea with the highest score.</li> <li>The Trust but Verify method. Apply the old Ronald Reagan maxim, “Trust your decision but verify.” If the decision is not delivering the result you expected, then adjust.</li> </ul> <p>These four ways to deal with FOBO will help you be aware of your FODA and change.  We will never have perfect information and, therefore, will never make the ideal decision.  So, make your decision and move on.</p> <p>To learn more about the fear of a better option, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Dealing_with_FOBO.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: Dealing with FOBO (Fear of A Better Option)</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postImageUrl , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:visited , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active { border:0!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: Dealing with FOBO (Fear of A Better Option)

Returning to our best of Killer Innovations series, we dive into the importance of reading for the innovator and some stimulating books to stir up your creativity.  Building a library of inspiration in your innovation studio ensures you have a ready source of ideas. This inspiration library can come in the form of a collection of innovative books. I am a visual learner, so reading books is where I often find my inspiration. I will walk you through some essential books and explain why I value them. My Design Innovation Books The first book is “Frank Lloyd Wright: A Visual Encyclopedia.” I grew up in Chicago, where the author started and became famous. Personally, this book reminds me to create my style. Frank Lloyd Wright separated himself from others. He developed his style and put a different spin on the design of his buildings. The next book is called “A Pattern Language” by a professor at UC Berkeley, Christopher Alexander. Used by the original Sims game developers, the author breaks down patterns found by building houses, cities, and other buildings. While you can't apply what is in this book and apply it directly to a product or service, the book teaches an important idea. You can generate a certain feeling or experience through your patterns and designs. “Designing Interactions” by Bill Moggridge is the third innovation book in my library of inspiration. The author focuses on designing experiences and offers important insights into the origins of Google and others. The fourth book on my list touches on what to do with design, where problems can occur, and how to avoid them. It is “The Universal Principles of Design” by William Lidwell. My Creative Innovation Books The fifth book is “Thinker Toys: A Handbook of Creative-Thinking Techniques” by Michael Michalko. In my opinion, this is a book that every innovator should have. The book brings together tools, approaches, ways to brainstorm, uses of SCAMPER, etc., that are very useful for innovators. Pretty much anything that Michael puts out, I buy. Another book is “Six Thinking Hats” by Dr. Edward de Bono.” His TV show on PBS introduced me to the innovation and creativity space when I was a kid. Over six or seven shows, Dr. de Bono, taught viewers about unleashing their creativity, which sparked something inside me. The book is a great reminder to change your perspective and keep a fresh mind and is a great piece to have in your library of inspiration. Fun Books I Keep Now I will share with you some fun books I keep that make me laugh. The first is “The World's Worst Inventions: The Craziest Gadgets and Machines Ever Made” by Jack Watkins. This book discusses some inventions that have been deemed stupid by many. Ironically, some of these inventions have gone on to be successful after this book was published. The next book is “Fail Harder: Ridiculous Illustrations of Epic Fails” by Failblog.org Community. This book humorously discusses human failings and reminds us of our human nature. To learn more about creating your inspiration library, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: My Innovation Library.  .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Returning to our best of Killer Innovations series, we dive into the importance of reading for the innovator and some stimulating books to stir up your creativity.</p> <p></p> <p>Building a library of inspiration in your innovation studio ensures you have a ready source of ideas. This inspiration library can come in the form of a collection of innovative books. I am a visual learner, so reading books is where I often find <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/creative-inspiration-outside-of-work/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">my inspiration</a>. I will walk you through some essential books and explain why I value them.</p> <h2>My Design Innovation Books</h2> <p>The first book is “<em>Frank Lloyd Wright: A Visual Encyclopedia</em>.” I grew up in Chicago, where the author started and became famous. Personally, this book reminds me to create my style. Frank Lloyd Wright separated himself from others. He developed his <a href="https://philmckinney.com/i-have-a-question/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">style </a>and put a different spin on the design of his buildings.</p> <p>The next book is called “<em>A Pattern Language</em>” by a professor at UC Berkeley, Christopher Alexander. Used by the original Sims game developers, the author breaks down patterns found by building houses, cities, and other buildings. While you can't apply what is in this book and apply it directly to a product or service, the book teaches an important idea. You can generate a <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/donald-rattner-on-design-of-a-place-and-its-effect-on-creativity/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">certain feeling or experience </a>through your patterns and designs.</p> <p>“<em>Designing Interactions</em>” by Bill Moggridge is the third innovation book in my library of inspiration. The author focuses on designing experiences and offers important insights into the origins of Google and others.</p> <p>The fourth book on my list touches on what to do with design, where problems can occur, and how to avoid them. It is “<em>The Universal Principles of Design</em>” by William Lidwell.</p> <h2>My Creative Innovation Books</h2> <p>The fifth book is “<em>Thinker Toys: A Handbook of Creative-Thinking Techniques</em>” by Michael Michalko. In my opinion, this is a book that every innovator should have. The book brings together tools, approaches, <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/virtual-brainstorm/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ways to brainstorm</a>, uses of SCAMPER, etc., that are very useful for innovators. Pretty much anything that Michael puts out, I buy.</p> <p>Another book is “Six Thinking Hats” by Dr. Edward de Bono.” His TV show on PBS introduced me to the innovation and creativity space when I was a kid. Over six or seven shows, Dr. de Bono, taught viewers about unleashing their <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/will-ai-replace-human-creativity/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">creativity</a>, which sparked something inside me. The book is a great reminder to <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/being-content-is-the-enemy-of-innovation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">change your perspective </a>and keep a fresh mind and is a great piece to have in your library of inspiration.</p> <h2>Fun Books I Keep</h2> <p>Now I will share with you some fun books I keep that make me laugh. The first is “<em>The World's Worst Inventions: The Craziest Gadgets and Machines Ever Made</em>” by Jack Watkins. This book discusses some inventions that have been deemed stupid by many. Ironically, some of these inventions have gone on to be successful after this book was published.</p> <p>The next book is “<em>Fail Harder: Ridiculous Illustrations of Epic Fails</em>” by <a href="http://Failblog.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Failblog.org</a> Community. This book humorously discusses human failings and reminds us of our human nature.</p> <p>To learn more about creating your inspiration library, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/My_Innovation_Library.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: My Innovation Library</a>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postImageUrl , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:visited , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active { border:0!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:active , .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u4fe9735766a81a4cc5757ba8258640ba:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: My Innovation Library

Resuming our best of Killer Innovation series, we take a deeper look at the contrasting characteristics of coaching and mentoring.  The topic is one that I have touched on over the years in various ways. People reach out to me all the time, asking about this.  Coaching, as well as mentoring, often get placed in the same category. In reality, they are different. We will discuss the differences between innovation coaching and mentoring and run through some application scenarios. Innovation Coaching Many people often find themselves confused when it comes to coaching and mentoring. They don’t understand that innovation coaching and innovation mentoring are different. Coaching is the most common activity when it comes to innovation. In general, coaching and mentoring are two of the top five most popular jobs out there. Innovation coaching is kind of like a sports coach. In baseball, a pitching coach trains pitchers to improve their craft. Pitching coaching is just like innovation coaching, as it seeks to help one improve in a specific area based on an assessment. It tends to be limited in duration. Also, it only works best with measurable and tangible improvement opportunities. A good innovation coach will offer clear direction for improvement based on assessing one’s needs. Coaching can be on the individual level, team level, or for an entire organization. An innovation coach should be able to evaluate and tell you what area you need to improve. They should plan to improve and be more successful in a specific area. Innovation Mentoring Mentoring is a less specific and tangible area that looks at the big picture, such as your career. An innovation mentor is a trusted advisor that crosses personal and professional lines and might be with you for many years. They help craft broader goals and the skills and experiences to achieve them. When looking for an innovation mentor, choose someone you can learn from. You want one that has achieved innovation success in their career. Usually focused on the individual, I have also done long-term mentoring for innovation teams. Mentoring sessions are less formal than coaching sessions and are on an as-needed basis. Fees for mentoring most likely come from the individual. A successful mentoring role should last many years and stay constant, no matter if your organization changes. No fees may be required in rare cases if you become close to the mentor. Don’t expect mentoring to be free just because some mentors might typically do it out of the kindness of the heart. Remember, mentoring relationships require time and transparency to be successful. A mentor can’t do their job if you are not honest with them, and vice versa. Coaching vs. Mentoring One of the best ways to show the differences between an innovation coach and a mentor is to run through some scenarios. First scenario: Your team is struggling to create a pitch for an idea to secure funding from your organization. You must determine the best way to structure your pitch to secure funding. Is innovation coaching or mentoring the best way to aid you?  You could hire an innovation coach in this situation because it is a specific issue you are trying to resolve. You want to find a coach with an excellent track record of helping teams craft pitches. Pay the coach for their work rather than saying you’ll pay them upon success. Second scenario: Your CEO has asked you to develop innovation leaders within your existing staff. Would this be innovation coaching or mentoring? With a longer-term goal that is not tangible, so in this case, it would be innovation mentoring in a team setting. Third scenario: Your team is running up against internal and external innovation antibodies (naysayers), and you need help crafting a strategy to win the organization’s support. You need help with a specific issue within your organization, so this is an innovation coaching opportunity. You need a strategy coach to help deal with the antibodies and win your organization’s support. Fourth scenario: You have decided to improve your innovation abilities and skills to be more successful. This scenario is a textbook case of innovation mentoring. Here you need help establishing your long-range career to succeed in innovation. Summary Today, we talked about the differences between innovation coaching and innovation mentoring. As we discussed, there is a difference between coaching and mentoring. Coaching is about solving communication skills, deliverables, executive presence, etc. Mentoring comes with long-term career advice. My first mentor was my boss at Deltek, Bob Davis. Bob hired me and put me into the first management role of my career. He knew I could be a great software engineer, but as my mentor, he told me I had broader skills than that. I had to put in much extra work to develop myself under Bob’s mentorship. He put me on a career rotation, placing me in finance, marketing, advertising, sales, and IT, which helped me grow. Bob helped me think through my long-term goals and what opportunities I should seek. Today, I do innovation coaching and mentoring and have done small companies up to Fortune 10. I’ve coached and mentored CEOs, CTOs, and CIOs, some lasting up to seven years. Check out the Disruptive Ideation Workshop, a long-term investment for your or your team’s success. To know more about coaching and mentoring,  listen to: The Best of Killer Innovations: Innovation Coaching Versus Innovation Mentoring.  .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postImageUrl , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:visited , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active { border:0!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Resuming our best of Killer Innovation series, we take a deeper look at the contrasting characteristics of coaching and mentoring.</p> <p></p> <p>The topic is one that I have touched on over the years in various ways. People reach out to me all the time, asking about this.  Coaching, as well as mentoring, often get placed <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/valuable-secrets-from-innovation-coaches-and-mentors-s11-ep52/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">in the same category</a>. In reality, they are different. We will discuss the differences between innovation coaching and mentoring and run through some application scenarios.</p> <h2>Innovation Coaching</h2> <p>Many people often find themselves confused when it comes to coaching and mentoring. They don’t understand that innovation coaching and innovation mentoring are different. Coaching is the most common activity when it comes to innovation.</p> <p>In general, coaching and mentoring are two of the top five most popular jobs out there. Innovation coaching is kind of like a sports coach. In baseball, a pitching coach trains pitchers to improve their craft. Pitching coaching is just like innovation coaching, as it seeks to <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/7-laws-of-innovation-and-benefitting-from-coaching-insights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">help one improve in a specific area </a>based on an assessment. It tends to be limited in duration. Also, it only works best with measurable and tangible improvement opportunities.</p> <p>A good innovation coach will offer clear direction for improvement based on assessing one’s needs. Coaching can be on the individual level, team level, or for an entire organization. An innovation coach should be able to evaluate and tell you what area you need to improve. They should plan to improve and be more successful in a specific area.</p> <h2>Innovation Mentoring</h2> <p>Mentoring is a less specific and tangible area that looks at the big picture, such as your career. An innovation mentor is a trusted advisor that crosses personal and professional lines and might be with you for many years. They help craft broader goals and the skills and experiences to achieve them. When looking for an <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/no-entrepreneur-is-an-island-mentoring-networking-sharing-s13-ep52/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">innovation mentor,</a> choose someone you can learn from.</p> <p>You want one that has achieved innovation success in their career.</p> <p>Usually focused on the individual, I have also done long-term mentoring for innovation teams. Mentoring sessions are less formal than coaching sessions and are on an as-needed basis. Fees for mentoring most likely come from the individual. A successful mentoring role should last many years and stay constant, no matter if your organization changes.</p> <p>No fees may be required in rare cases if you become close to the mentor. Don’t expect mentoring to be free just because some mentors might typically do it out of the kindness of the heart. Remember, mentoring relationships require time and transparency to be successful. A mentor can’t do their job if you are not honest with them, and vice versa.</p> <h2>Coaching vs. Mentoring</h2> <p>One of the best ways to show the differences between an innovation coach and a mentor is to run through some scenarios.</p> <p>First scenario: Your team is struggling to create a pitch for an idea to secure funding from your organization. You must determine the best way to structure your pitch to secure funding<em>. Is innovation coaching or mentoring the best way to aid you?</em>  You could hire an innovation coach in this situation because it is a specific issue you are trying to resolve. You want to find a coach with an excellent track record of helping teams craft pitches. Pay the coach for their work rather than saying you’ll pay them upon success.</p> <p>Second scenario: Your CEO has asked you to develop innovation leaders within your existing staff. <em>Would this be innovation coaching or mentoring?</em> With a longer-term goal that is not tangible, so in this case, it would be innovation mentoring in a team setting.</p> <p>Third scenario: Your team is running up against internal and external <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/8-ways-to-deal-with-innovation-antibodies-who-are-blocking-you-s12-ep10/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">innovation antibodies </a>(naysayers), and you need help crafting a strategy to win the organization’s support. You need help with a specific issue within your organization, so this is an innovation coaching opportunity. You need a strategy coach to help deal with the antibodies and win your organization’s support.</p> <p>Fourth scenario: You have decided to improve your innovation abilities and skills to be more successful. This scenario is a textbook case of innovation mentoring. Here you need help establishing your long-range career to succeed in innovation.</p> <h2>Summary</h2> <p>Today, we talked about the differences between innovation coaching and innovation mentoring. As we discussed, there is a difference between coaching and mentoring. Coaching is about solving communication skills, deliverables, executive presence, etc. Mentoring comes with long-term career advice.</p> <p><a href="https://killerinnovations.com/how-i-built-my-innovation-self-confidence/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">My first mentor </a>was my boss at Deltek, Bob Davis. Bob hired me and put me into the first management role of my career. He knew I could be a great software engineer, but as my mentor, he told me I had broader skills than that. I had to put in much extra work to develop myself under Bob’s mentorship. He put me on a career rotation, placing me in finance, marketing, advertising, sales, and IT, which helped me grow. Bob helped me think through my long-term goals and what opportunities I should seek.</p> <p>Today, I do innovation coaching and mentoring and have done small companies up to Fortune 10. I’ve coached and mentored CEOs, CTOs, and CIOs, some lasting up to seven years.</p> <p>Check out the <a href="https://disruptiveideation.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disruptive Ideation Workshop</a>, a long-term investment for your or your team’s success.</p> <p>To know more about coaching and mentoring,  listen to: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Innovation_Coaching_Versus_Innovation_Mentoring.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Best of Killer Innovations: Innovation Coaching Versus Innovation Mentoring</a></strong><strong>.</strong></em></p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postImageUrl , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:visited , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active { border:0!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:active , .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4 .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc21a78f3a1b947d6ff6a07b2a0da91c4:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

The Best of Killer Innovations: Innovation Coaching Versus Innovation Mentoring

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Informed and considered ideas and methods. Just right audio bite sizes for thought and use.

The Problem Statement and Beyond

Killer Innovations with Phil McKinney - A Show About Ideas Creativity And Innovation

What are the innovation skills needed to be successful in creating new ideas and products? Many people often find themselves void of creativity in the innovation world. This stems from a deeper issue. On today’s show, we will go through in more detail what innovation skills separate those that have limited success to those that have continual success. The core set of skills to be successful and to win regardless of your organization type, size or geographical location are the same.  Self-Confidence in Creativity The number one skillset I have discussed many times over the years is self-confidence that you are creative. We were all born highly creative. Watch kids with the creative things they say, do and come up with. The problem is creativity is driven out of us from an early age. Children learn conformity from grade school through college. We are brainwashed into thinking that it is vital to act the same in order to be relevant. When we move into a professional career we are asked to be more creative, think differently and come up with solutions, after being taught conformity for 16+ years. It’s no myth that CEOs recruit creativity. Creativity drives innovation. It's a catalyst for growth in a business. If you are not exercising your creativity and unlocking its potential you could become irrelevant. Bravery  Another key skillset is bravery. The opposite if innovation bravery is conformity. You have to go out and apply your creativity. Share your thoughts and ideas. Take some risks. Try something you haven’t done before. The fear and feeling of failure holds us back and kills the bravery. You have to get over the fear of failure to be brave. Step out, get permission or give permission to go and fail. Go out and experiment, test the limits, break the norm and be brave. Seeing with Fresh Eyes One important skillset that gets harder to use as you get more experienced is your perspective. Seeing with fresh eyes and having a beginner's mind will guide you to develop breakout products and services. Don’t let your area of expertise cloud your vision, but have an attitude of openness. Every year of experience in an expertise or capability area you become more and more closed to different approaches or new opportunities. No matter how many times you have seen and worked a type of initiative/project you need to put aside your expertise and come in with a new mindset to each initiative. Adopt an approach with many possibilities and avoid getting caught in the trap of an expert mindset with fewer possibilities and being categorized as a naysayer. Ability to Craft &amp; Ask Great Questions How does one get the creative thoughts and ideas flowing? The answer is by asking questions. Questions hold great power. They get people thinking. There are simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions, leading questions and questions you craft to discover. The power of creating and collecting your own questions is critical in the innovation world. It will help you create new ideas and eliminate problems. Coming in as a new leader I crafted four questions to gain a unique insight. Developing these questions is vital to deriving input from your team, vendors, partners, leaders as well as potential beneficiaries of your idea. Continually, coming up with different ways of asking a question can generate discoveries that are unique. For instance, if I ask you the question of what is half of thirteen and you respond six and a half. I would give you an ‘A ‘on a math test, but in innovation, I would give you a ‘C’. Why, because you stopped at the first obvious answer. Now if I craft the question slightly differently and ask you how many different ways can you convey half of thirteen? There are more ways than one, and it would surprise you how creative you can get. To help out I’ve crafted a card deck that asks questions with a variety of angles to challenge you to think differently. Learning how to come up with ways to ask questions and reword them to ask differently, will give you a skill that generates new insights. The power of questions is absolutely critical in the innovation game. Begin creating and collecting your own questions today. Dealing with Innovation Antibodies  One skill we need, but tend to overlook is dealing with innovation antibodies. When operating in the world of innovation, opposition often occurs. People may feel threatened by your idea for one reason or another. These people act as innovation antibodies, attacking your idea. How do you deal with this issue? No matter where you are in innovation, you will encounter different responses, and will have to work through them. Here are the types of responses you will need to work through:  Ego Response – The jealousy of your idea coming from position of authority. Share some of the idea/give credit to get around these people Fatigue Response – “I’ve tried that before.” Treat them as an adviser to help your idea No-Risk Response – “That’s too risky.” Empathize with them and take risk seriously Comfort Response – “We don’t need change, we're doing good.” Show them that things will not be good forever  Do you know an innovation antibody in your organization? What category would you put them in? Do others call you an innovation antibody? If so, what type are you?  Innovation Attitude A key skillset that is vital to success in innovation is to have an innovation attitude that permeates your culture. This based on a term I use called CARE to help push C – Candor – freely share your creative thoughts and ideas with others. Be respectful, but be honest and encourage candor among yourselves and others. Invite them to act as an innovation antibody even on your ideas. If you don’t share your thoughts and ideas they don’t become real innovations—they have zero value. A – Action – Act on ideas that will impact your organization. Take charge to enable progress and lean in. Provide solutions to issues both big and small regardless if it is your idea. Don’t let good ideas become stale because it wasn’t your idea, take action to drive them forward. R – Risk – Understand the uncertainty and risk associated with trying new ideas. Take calculated risks or act on perceived risks. Get rid of perceived risks—many are not real risks. Learn from experiments and calculated risks. Understand how to manage risks and push forward. E – Empower – Trust yourself and others to make a difference. Feel like you are empowered and have permission. Empower others and encourage leaders to empower—enable permission.   Let’s connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter. If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know. The email address is feedback@philmckinney.com or you can go to PhilMcKinney.com and drop me a note there. If you are looking for innovation support go to TheInnovators.Network or want to be challenged to develop the next big idea, check out our Disruptive Ideation Workshops. Don’t forget to join our Innovators Community to enjoy more conversations around innovation. To learn about the skills needed for a successful innovation, listen to this week's show: The Six Innovation Skills Everyone Needs.    .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postImageUrl , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:visited , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active { border:0!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>What are the innovation skills needed to be successful in creating new ideas and products? Many people often find themselves void of creativity in the innovation world. This stems from a deeper issue. On today’s show, we will go through in more detail what innovation skills separate those that have limited success to those that have continual success. The core set of skills to be successful and to win regardless of your organization type, size or geographical location are the same.</p> <p></p> <h2><strong>Self-Confidence in Creativity</strong></h2> <p>The number one skillset I have discussed many times over the years is self-confidence that you are creative. We were all born highly creative. Watch kids with the creative things they say, do and come up with. The problem is creativity is driven out of us from an early age. Children learn conformity from grade school through college. We are brainwashed into thinking that it is vital to act the same in order to be relevant. When we move into a professional career we are asked to be more creative, think differently and come up with solutions, after being taught conformity for 16+ years. It’s no myth that CEOs recruit creativity. Creativity drives innovation. It's a catalyst for growth in a business. If you are not exercising your creativity and unlocking its potential you could become irrelevant.</p> <h2><strong>Bravery </strong></h2> <p>Another key skillset is bravery. The opposite if innovation bravery is conformity. You have to go out and apply your creativity. Share your thoughts and ideas. Take some risks. Try something you haven’t done before. The fear and feeling of failure holds us back and kills the bravery. You have to get over the fear of failure to be brave. Step out, get permission or give permission to go and fail. Go out and experiment, test the limits, <a href="https://philmckinney.com/be-willing-to-be-weird/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">break the norm and be brave</a>.</p> <h2><strong>Seeing with Fresh Eyes</strong></h2> <p>One important skillset that gets harder to use as you get more experienced is your perspective. Seeing with fresh eyes and having a beginner's mind will guide you to develop breakout products and services. Don’t let your area of expertise cloud your vision, but have an attitude of openness. Every year of experience in an expertise or capability area you become more and more closed to different approaches or new opportunities. No matter how many times you have seen and worked a type of initiative/project you need to put aside your expertise and come in with a new mindset to each initiative. Adopt an approach with many possibilities and avoid getting caught in the trap of an expert mindset with fewer possibilities and being categorized as a naysayer.</p> <h2><strong>Ability to Craft &amp; Ask Great Questions</strong></h2> <p>How does one get the creative thoughts and ideas flowing? The answer is by asking questions. Questions hold great power. They get people thinking. There are simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions, leading questions and questions you craft to discover. The power of creating and collecting your own questions is critical in the innovation world. It will help you create new ideas and eliminate problems. Coming in as a new leader I crafted four questions to gain a unique insight. Developing these questions is vital to deriving input from your team, vendors, partners, leaders as well as potential beneficiaries of your idea.</p> <p>Continually, coming up with different ways of asking a question can generate discoveries that are unique. For instance, if I ask you the question of what is half of thirteen and you respond six and a half. I would give you an ‘A ‘on a math test, but in innovation, I would give you a ‘C’. Why, because you stopped at the first obvious answer. Now if I craft the question slightly differently and ask you how many different ways can you convey half of thirteen? There are more ways than one, and it would surprise you how creative you can get.</p> <p>To help out I’ve crafted a card deck that asks questions with a variety of angles to challenge you to think differently. Learning how to come up with ways to ask questions and reword them to ask differently, will give you a skill that generates new insights. The power of questions is absolutely critical in the innovation game. Begin creating and collecting your own questions today.</p> <h2><strong>Dealing with Innovation Antibodies </strong></h2> <p>One skill we need, but tend to overlook is dealing with <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/8-ways-to-deal-with-innovation-antibodies-who-are-blocking-you-s12-ep10/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">innovation antibodies</a>. When operating in the world of innovation, opposition often occurs. People may feel threatened by your idea for one reason or another. These people act as innovation antibodies, attacking your idea. How do you deal with this issue? No matter where you are in innovation, you will encounter different responses, and will have to work through them.</p> <p>Here are the types of responses you will need to work through<strong>:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Ego Response</strong> – The jealousy of your idea coming from position of authority. Share some of the idea/give credit to get around these people</li> <li><strong>Fatigue Response </strong>– “I’ve tried that before.” Treat them as an adviser to help your idea</li> <li><strong>No-Risk Response – </strong>“That’s too risky.” Empathize with them and take risk seriously</li> <li><strong>Comfort Response –</strong> “We don’t need change, we're doing good.” Show them that things will not be good forever</li> </ul> <p>Do you know an innovation antibody in your organization? What category would you put them in? Do others call you an innovation antibody? If so, what type are you?</p> <h2><strong> </strong><strong>Innovation Attitude</strong></h2> <p>A key skillset that is vital to success in innovation is to have an innovation attitude that permeates your culture. This based on a term I use called <strong>CARE</strong> to help push</p> <p><strong>C – </strong>Candor – freely share your creative thoughts and ideas with others. Be respectful, but be honest and encourage candor among yourselves and others. Invite them to act as an innovation antibody even on your ideas. If you don’t share your thoughts and ideas they don’t become real innovations—they have zero value.</p> <p><strong>A – </strong>Action – Act on ideas that will impact your organization. Take charge to enable progress and lean in. Provide solutions to issues both big and small regardless if it is your idea. Don’t let good ideas become stale because it wasn’t your idea, take action to drive them forward.</p> <p><strong>R – </strong>Risk – Understand the uncertainty and risk associated with trying new ideas. Take calculated risks or act on perceived risks. Get rid of perceived risks—many are not real risks. Learn from experiments and calculated risks. Understand how to manage risks and push forward.</p> <p><strong>E – </strong>Empower – Trust yourself and others to make a difference. Feel like you are empowered and have permission. Empower others and encourage leaders to empower—enable permission.</p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p>Let’s connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter. If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know. The email address is feedback@philmckinney.com or you can go to <a href="https://philmckinney.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PhilMcKinney.com</a> and drop me a note there. If you are looking for innovation support go to <a href="http://www.theinnovators.network/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TheInnovators.Network</a> or want to be challenged to develop the next big idea, check out our <a href="http://www.disruptiveideation.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disruptive Ideation Workshops</a>. Don’t forget to join our <a href="http://www.theinnovators.community/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Innovators Community</a> to enjoy more conversations around innovation.</p> <p>To learn about the skills needed for a successful innovation, listen to this week's show: <a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/The_Six_Innovation_Skills_Everyone_Needs.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><em><strong>The Six Innovation Skills Everyone Needs</strong></em></a>.</p> <p> </p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postImageUrl , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:visited , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active { border:0!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:active , .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u5983f56407d378cf375757f2948503dd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

Six Innovation Skills Everyone Needs

This week's guest is an old friend of mine with an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for collegiate athletics. Craig Ridley, CEO, and Co-Founder of ROUTE Analytics Inc. joins us to discuss some game-changing innovation efforts in the world of college sports recruitment. On today's show, we will discuss sports tech innovation and what ROUTE is doing to help young student-athletes make their dreams come true.  ROUTE What is ROUTE? Craig says ROUTE Analytics is the convergence of three of his many passions. It's sports, technology, and innovation through data science. We help high school athletes find their best path to play collegiate sports. We are grounded in the sport of football for three reasons: It is the most popular American sport, it is the most complex in terms of recruiting, and it is the most lucrative. There are many challenges for the parents, players, and coaches, in the recruiting process. What is the process of getting an athlete noticed by colleges today? Craig says it's more competitive than ever, and much of the lift falls on the athletes and the parents. That process begins earlier than ever, and the student-athletes and their families need to find the best opportunities to play. Collegiate athletic organizations such as the NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA all have varying restrictions on college coaches and student-athletes contacting each other. That is where ROUTE comes into play. What kickstarted ROUTE? My son played football as a wide receiver in high school and wanted to play Division 1 football, but his coach told him that he was a Div. II/Div. III player. Through the recruiting process, we realized it wasn't that simple. Long story short, we took a sports tech innovation approach to the process and my son was able to get recruited to play at West Virginia University. The Birth of ROUTE Craig says that a dream without a plan is a wish. We put up a plan to help my son achieve his goal. When the coach told us that he was a D2/D3 player, we were looking at about 417 schools and a total of 672 schools with football programs in the NCAA. We went to a football camp at the University of Maryland and realized that with 350 kids at the camp, the coaches were unable to evaluate all the kid's talents. Realistically, you can only do about five football camps a summer with the five weeks in between football seasons. We came back from that camp and got smarter with our approach. I started to build a spreadsheet and went to athletic and academic websites, journaling information and narrowing down the schools to target. That is the approach that we took to get my son to his dream. After navigating that process, I had parents asking me for help, but I could only help one family at a time. With my sports tech innovation background, I wondered if there was a way to help navigate this process more efficiently. With regards to ROUTE, what has been the response from coaches and schools? Craig says the coaches love it because it makes their jobs easier. We provide the research and analytics and the predicted outcomes, simplifying the process. Spreadsheet to Business How did you go from a spreadsheet to launching a business? Craig says he started by looking for a great data scientist. I was blessed to find three of them and with some tremendous diverse experience. From there, we built a prototype and took it to the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA). The coaches at the show said they had never seen anything like it and encouraged us to build it. I put the initial capital in to go from prototype to beta, and now we're post-beta and working on version three. 80% of our current customers are on IOS devices and we are working on getting it available on Android as well. We have athletes from every state in the country, Canada, as well as users from Europe using our product. What is the next sport after football? Craig says basketball would be next, due to the number of kids playing it in the U.S. What does it take to bring on a new sport? Craig says they acquire a massive amount of data, so it is not a simple task. It's not just on the athletes, but on the school's athletic and academic data. We want to be the foremost data analytics and research company in the area we are in now. Focusing on sports tech innovation in one key area at a time is vital to maximization. Advice for Startups With ROUTE being your fifth startup, what is the advice you wish you had before all the startups? Aligning your interests with the folks you're working is beneficial for everyone. Startups don't die because they run out of money, but because the founders run out of energy. It comes down to what you're willing to sacrifice to achieve your dream. How do you validate that your interests are aligned? Craig says it comes down to leadership. Listening is an underrated leadership skill. If you ask the right questions and you listen, you'll hear who and what makes them tick. Assembling my team was the essential step in creating ROUTE. If you want to keep up with ROUTE and download the ROUTE app, check out their website here. Follow Craig on LinkedIn here. About Our Guest: Craig Ridley Craig Ridley is the Co-founder and CEO of ROUTE Analytics Inc. ROUTE is a college football recruiting application that helps athletes make better decisions about where to play. Craig has a background in sports tech innovation through data science and was involved in five different startups. Let's connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter. If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know. The email address is feedback@philmckinney.com or you can go to PhilMcKinney.com and drop me a note there. If you are looking for innovation support go to TheInnovators.Network or want to be challenged to develop the next big idea, check out our Disruptive Ideation Workshops. Don't forget to join our Innovators Community to enjoy more conversations around innovation. To learn more about the latest in sports tech innovation and ROUTE, listen to this week's show: Sports Tech Innovation Beyond The Field.    .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postImageUrl , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:visited , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active { border:0!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>This week's guest is an old friend of mine with an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for collegiate athletics. Craig Ridley, CEO, and Co-Founder of ROUTE Analytics Inc. joins us to discuss some <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/bringing-the-game-to-gaming-tech-innovation-ces2020/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">game-changing innovation</a> efforts in the world of college sports recruitment. On today's show, we will discuss sports tech innovation and what ROUTE is doing to help young student-athletes make their dreams come true.</p> <p></p> <h2><strong>ROUTE</strong></h2> <p>What is ROUTE? Craig says ROUTE Analytics is the convergence of three of his many passions. It's sports, technology, and innovation through <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/dept-of-energy-on-ai-and-its-impact/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">data science</a>. We help high school athletes find their best path to play collegiate sports. We are grounded in the sport of football for three reasons: It is the most popular American sport, it is the most complex in terms of recruiting, and it is the most lucrative. There are many challenges for the parents, players, and coaches, in the recruiting process.</p> <p>What is the process of getting an athlete noticed by colleges today? Craig says it's more competitive than ever, and much of the lift falls on the athletes and the parents. That <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/innovating-across-enterprises-ces2020/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">process</a> begins earlier than ever, and the student-athletes and their families need to find the best opportunities to play. Collegiate athletic organizations such as the NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA all have varying restrictions on college coaches and student-athletes contacting each other. That is where ROUTE comes into play.</p> <p>What kickstarted ROUTE? My son played football as a wide receiver in high school and wanted to play Division 1 football, but his coach told him that he was a Div. II/Div. III player. Through the recruiting process, we realized it wasn't that simple. Long story short, we took a sports tech innovation approach to the process and my son was able to get recruited to play at West Virginia University.</p> <h2><strong>The Birth of ROUTE</strong></h2> <p>Craig says that a dream without a plan is a wish. We put up a plan to help my son achieve his goal. When the coach told us that he was a D2/D3 player, we were looking at about 417 schools and a total of 672 schools with football programs in the NCAA. We went to a football camp at the University of Maryland and realized that with 350 kids at the camp, the coaches were unable to evaluate all the kid's talents. Realistically, you can only do about five football camps a summer with the five weeks in between football seasons.</p> <p>We came back from that camp and got smarter with our approach. I started to build a spreadsheet and went to athletic and academic websites, journaling information and narrowing down the schools to target. That is the approach that we took to get my son to his dream. After navigating that process, I had parents asking me for help, but I could only help one family at a time. With my sports tech innovation background, I wondered if there was a way to help navigate this process more efficiently. With regards to ROUTE, what has been the response from coaches and schools? Craig says the coaches love it because it makes their jobs easier. We provide the <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/renaissance-era-in-innovation-ces2020/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">research and analytics</a> and the predicted outcomes, simplifying the process.</p> <h2><strong>Spreadsheet to Business</strong></h2> <p>How did you go from a spreadsheet to launching a business? Craig says he started by looking for a great data scientist. I was blessed to find three of them and with some tremendous diverse experience. From there, we built a prototype and took it to the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA). The coaches at the show said they had never seen anything like it and encouraged us to build it. I put the initial capital in to go from prototype to beta, and now we're post-beta and working on version three. 80% of our current customers are on IOS devices and we are working on getting it available on Android as well. We have athletes from every state in the country, Canada, as well as users from Europe using our product.</p> <p>What is the next sport after football? Craig says basketball would be next, due to the number of kids playing it in the U.S. What does it take to bring on a new sport? Craig says they acquire a massive amount of data, so it is not a simple task. It's not just on the athletes, but on the school's athletic and academic data. We want to be the foremost data analytics and research company in the area we are in now. Focusing on sports tech innovation in one key area at a time is vital to maximization.</p> <h2><strong>Advice for Startups</strong></h2> <p>With ROUTE being your fifth startup, what is the advice you wish you had before all the startups? Aligning your interests with the folks you're working is beneficial for everyone. Startups don't die because they run out of money, but because the founders run out of energy. It comes down to what you're willing to sacrifice to achieve your dream. How do you validate that your interests are aligned? Craig says it comes down to <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/4-leadership-struggles-i-had-to-overcome/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leadership</a>. Listening is an underrated leadership skill. If you ask the right <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/innovation-leadership-skills-6-questions-great-leaders-ask-their-employees/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">questions</a> and you listen, you'll hear who and what makes them tick. Assembling my team was the essential step in creating ROUTE.</p> <p>If you want to keep up with ROUTE and download the ROUTE app, check out their website <a href="http://myroute.xyz/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. Follow Craig on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigridley" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <h2><strong>About Our Guest: Craig Ridley</strong></h2> <p>Craig Ridley is the Co-founder and CEO of ROUTE Analytics Inc. ROUTE is a college football recruiting application that helps athletes make better decisions about where to play. Craig has a background in sports tech innovation through data science and was involved in five different startups.</p> <p>Let's connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter. If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know. The email address is feedback@philmckinney.com or you can go to <a href="https://philmckinney.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PhilMcKinney.com</a> and drop me a note there. If you are looking for innovation support go to <a href="http://www.theinnovators.network/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TheInnovators.Network</a> or want to be challenged to develop the next big idea, check out our <a href="http://www.disruptiveideation.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disruptive Ideation Workshops</a>. Don't forget to join our <a href="http://www.theinnovators.community/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Innovators Community</a> to enjoy more conversations around innovation.</p> <p>To learn more about the latest in sports tech innovation and ROUTE, listen to this week's show: <em><strong><a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Sports_Tech_Innovation_Beyond_The_Field.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sports Tech Innovation Beyond The Field</a>.</strong></em></p> <p> </p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postImageUrl , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:visited , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active { border:0!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:active , .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u877500a6c9ed60aeaab64647da432dbd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

Sports Tech Innovation Beyond The Field

Dean Kamen

Today’s guest stands as one of the top inventors and scientists of our time. Dean Kamen has been innovating for decades and is known for his invention of the Segway, the infusion pump, the iBOT wheelchair, and many more game-changing inventions. This week on Killer Innovations, Dean Kamen joins us to discuss inventions and what he is currently doing to help change the world.   Helping People Live Better Dean is continuously trying to invent things to aid those in need. He has worked on taking technologies developed for broad markets and using them to meet the needs of patients. Many of Dean’s products help those with rarer issues, such as veterans who’ve lost limbs, or those with genetic disorders. Dean wants to reach the point where medical patients can live comfortably at home and still have access to the latest medical technology to keep them healthy. These inventions will not only save a ton of money but gives the patients more independence and dignity in their lives. Hope for Future Inventions When it comes to future inventions, Dean wants to create better alternative solutions to his dialysis invention as well as his infusion pump. He wants to continually enhance his products to make them more convenient for users. Through his company Deka Research and Development Corp, he tackles the world’s most complex problems, solving and innovating to improve our lives. In the “Near Future Series: “A Better Place”, Dean and the team are working towards opportunities in these areas. The Next Generation Inventors As an innovator on a mission, Dean’s passion is unchanging, and many see him as the Thomas Edison of our time. While we face our biggest challenges, such as the environment, healthcare, transportation, etc., a question remains: Who will be the next Dean Kamen? Dean says that there is a culture problem in our country rather than an education crisis. The abundance of things clouds kids from having creativity. Kids want to become movie stars and professional athletes rather than inventors of lifechanging products. Kids would instead want to be celebrities due to the recognition and glorification of those positions. To fix this problem, Dean decided to make inventing a sport, to encourage kids to work hard at something more impactful. That is where FIRST comes in to play. Dean founded FIRST, an international organization that hosts robot building competitions. FIRST gives kids an opportunity at a future and sets them up to become changers of the world. Dean is an innovator with a passion and a mission to change the world. He continually strives to help others by creating and enhancing products that aid them. Finding success in what you are doing is vital to have an innovation mission on lockdown. What is your innovation mission? If you want to get more knowledgeable about the future of invention or innovation, hop on over to the show to get more expert insights and advice. About our Guest: Dean Kamen  Dean Kamen is a top American scientist and inventor known for his inventions of the fusion pump, the iBOT, and the Segway. His futuristic inventions have revolutionized the world of healthcare, personal transportation, and numerous other areas. Dean’s passion for science and helping others has driven him to great success. Dean Kamen has received a vast number of awards throughout his career, but most notably, the Heinz Award for his contributions to the medical world, and the National Medal of Technology, for his innovative endeavors. In 1989, Dean founded FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). FIRST is an organization that hosts annual robot-building competitions between different youth teams. FIRST seeks to encourage kids to get excited about technology and their part in it. Dean currently resides in New Hampshire and his devotion to his work is unwavering as he continues to strive to make the world a better place. Let’s connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter. If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know. The email address is feedback@philmckinney.com, or you can go to PhilMcKinney.com and drop me a note there. If you are looking for innovation support, go to TheInnovators.Network or want to be challenged to develop the next big idea, check out our Disruptive Ideation Workshops. Don’t forget to join our Innovators Community to enjoy more conversations around innovation. To learn more about Dean Kamen and inventions that make life better, listen to this week's show: Dean Kamen on Making Life Better.    .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postImageUrl , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:visited , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active { border:0!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast

<p>Today’s guest stands as one of the top inventors and scientists of our time. Dean Kamen has been innovating for decades and is known for his <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/how-to-go-from-invention-to-innovation-to-commercialization-s11-ep31/#more-3750" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">invention</a> of the Segway, the infusion pump, the iBOT wheelchair, and many more game-changing inventions. This week on Killer Innovations, Dean Kamen joins us to discuss inventions and what he is currently doing to help change the world.</p> <p></p> <h2><strong> </strong><strong>Helping People Live Better</strong></h2> <p>Dean is continuously trying to invent things to aid those in need. He has worked on taking technologies developed for broad markets and using them to meet the needs of patients. Many of Dean’s products help those with rarer issues, such as veterans who’ve lost limbs, or those with genetic disorders. Dean wants to reach the point where medical patients can live comfortably at home and still have access to the latest <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/unusual-path-to-medical-innovation-ra-medicals-dean-irwin/#more-5988" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">medical technology</a> to keep them healthy. These inventions will not only save a ton of money but gives the patients more independence and dignity in their lives.</p> <h2><strong>Hope for Future Inventions</strong></h2> <p>When it comes to <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/a-future-look-top-innovations-teaching-the-future-tomorrows-healthcare/#more-6024" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">future inventions</a>, Dean wants to create better alternative solutions to his dialysis invention as well as his infusion pump. He wants to continually enhance his products to make them more convenient for users. Through his company <a href="http://www.dekaresearch.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Deka Research and Development Corp</a>, he tackles the world’s most complex problems, solving and innovating to improve our lives. In the “<a href="https://slack-redir.net/link?url=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2Fk0KIqRAoGBk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Near Future Series: “A Better Place”</a>, Dean and the team are working towards opportunities in these areas.</p> <h2><strong>The Next Generation Inventors</strong></h2> <p>As an <a href="https://philmckinney.com/?s=innovator&amp;submit=Search" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">innovator</a> on a mission, Dean’s passion is unchanging, and many see him as the Thomas Edison of our time. While we face our biggest challenges, such as the environment, healthcare, transportation, etc., a question remains: <em>Who will be the next Dean Kamen?</em> Dean says that there is a culture problem in our country rather than an <a href="https://philmckinney.com/innovation-classroom-education-needs-innovative/#more-15193" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">education</a> crisis. The abundance of things clouds kids from having creativity. Kids want to become movie stars and professional athletes rather than inventors of lifechanging products. Kids would instead want to be celebrities due to the recognition and glorification of those positions. To fix this problem, Dean decided to make inventing a sport, to encourage kids to work hard at something more impactful. That is where <a href="https://www.firstinspires.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FIRST</a> comes in to play. Dean founded FIRST, an international organization that hosts robot building competitions. FIRST gives kids an opportunity at a future and sets them up to become changers of the world.</p> <p>Dean is an innovator with a passion and a mission to <a href="https://philmckinney.com/unintended-consequences-5-innovation-failures-that-changed-the-world/#more-10938" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">change the world</a>. He continually strives to help others by creating and enhancing products that aid them. Finding success in what you are doing is vital to have an innovation mission on lockdown. What is your innovation mission?</p> <p>If you want to get more knowledgeable about the future of invention or innovation, hop on over to the show to get more expert insights and advice.</p> <h2><strong>About our Guest: Dean Kamen </strong></h2> <p>Dean Kamen is a top American scientist and inventor known for his inventions of the fusion pump, the iBOT, and the Segway. His futuristic inventions have revolutionized the world of healthcare, personal transportation, and numerous other areas. Dean’s passion for science and helping others has driven him to great success. Dean Kamen has received a vast number of awards throughout his career, but most notably, the Heinz Award for his contributions to the medical world, and the National Medal of Technology, for his innovative endeavors. In 1989, Dean founded FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). FIRST is an organization that hosts annual robot-building competitions between different youth teams. FIRST seeks to encourage kids to get excited about technology and their part in it. Dean currently resides in New Hampshire and his devotion to his work is unwavering as he continues to strive to make the world a better place.</p> <p>Let’s connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter. If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know. The email address is feedback@philmckinney.com, or you can go to <a href="https://philmckinney.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PhilMcKinney.com</a> and drop me a note there. If you are looking for innovation support, go to <a href="http://www.theinnovators.network/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TheInnovators.Network</a> or want to be challenged to develop the next big idea, check out our <a href="http://www.disruptiveideation.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disruptive Ideation Workshops</a>. Don’t forget to join our <a href="http://www.theinnovators.community/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Innovators Community</a> to enjoy more conversations around innovation.</p> <p>To learn more about Dean Kamen and inventions that make life better, listen to this week's show: <a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/philmckinney/Making_Life_Better.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><em><strong>Dean Kamen on Making Life Better</strong></em></a>.</p> <p> </p> <a href="https://killerinnovations.com/subscribe-to-podcast/" rel="dofollow nofollow" target="_blank"> .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postImageUrl , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:visited , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active { border:0!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #D35400; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:active , .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #7F8C8D; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #000000; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .ctaButton { background-color: #E67E22!important; color: #000000; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://eadn-wc01-5964675.nxedge.io/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #95A5A6!important; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left: 18px; top: 0; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8716504f11bd4edc61fce24c9cddd18c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } RELATED:   Subscribe To The Killer Innovations Podcast</a>

Dean Kamen on Making Life Better

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