Monthly Archives: March 2021

Healthcare Jugaad Innovation of a 17-Year-Old

Jugaad Innovation is an innovation subspecialty focused on designing inventions that are intentionally frugal and flexible in order to be more accessible to the entire world. As a result, a lot of jugaad innovation occurs in the developing world. Some of these inventions become innovations and spread from the developing world to the developed world.

I came across a story recently highlighting the potential healthcare jugaad innovation of 17-year-old Dasia Taylor of Iowa, who found that beets provide the perfect dye for her invention of sutures that change color when a surgical wound becomes infected (from bright red to dark purple).

According to Smithsonian magazine:

The 17-year-old student at Iowa City West High School in Iowa City, Iowa, began working on the project in October 2019, after her chemistry teacher shared information about state-wide science fairs with the class. As she developed her sutures, she nabbed awards at several regional science fairs, before advancing to the national stage. This January, Taylor was named one of 40 finalists in the Regeneron Science Talent Search, the country’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors.

There is still commercialization work to do (more testing, clinical trials, etc.), but the approach shows promise and is far cheaper than high-tech sutures that require a smartphone to sense changes in electrical resistance as an indicator of infection.

Congratulations Dasia!

The great thing about this jugaad innovation approach is that not only could it be a practical solution for developing countries, but national health services and insurance companies are always looking for effective but inexpensive solutions as well.

Good luck with the rest of your research, and keep innovating!

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The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Future of Work

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The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Future of Work

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the landscape of work across various sectors. Its influence is reshaping the nature of jobs, the skills required, and the way we think about work itself. In this article, we will explore the impact of AI through two case studies that highlight the transformative power of AI in the workplace.

Case Study 1: Manufacturing Sector

The manufacturing sector has been one of the earliest adopters of AI technologies. A study by the OECD based on nearly 100 case studies shows that AI’s impact on workplaces has led to job reorganization rather than job displacement. Automation has prompted the reorientation of jobs towards tasks where humans have a comparative advantage. For instance, AI-driven robots handle repetitive tasks, allowing human workers to focus on creative and strategic responsibilities that require emotional intelligence and complex decision-making.

Benefits Observed:

Reduction in Tedium: Workers are relieved from monotonous tasks.
Greater Worker Engagement: Employees are more involved in meaningful work.
Improved Physical Safety: AI-driven machines handle hazardous tasks.

Challenges Noted:

Skill Requirements: There is a growing need for up-skilling.
Increased Work Intensity: Some workers report a rise in work pressure.

Case Study 2: Finance Sector

In the finance sector, AI has revolutionized the way data is processed and analyzed. For example, AI algorithms are now used to detect fraudulent transactions with higher accuracy and speed than human analysts. This shift has not only improved security but also allowed financial institutions to offer more personalized services to customers.

Benefits Observed:

Enhanced Security: AI provides robust fraud detection mechanisms.
Personalized Services: Customers receive tailored financial advice.

Challenges Noted:

Job Redefinition: Roles in finance are evolving to integrate AI competencies.
Privacy Concerns: There is an ongoing debate about data handling and privacy.

Conclusion

The case studies from the manufacturing and finance sectors demonstrate that AI is a double-edged sword. While it brings efficiency and new opportunities, it also presents challenges that need to be addressed through thoughtful policies and continuous learning. As AI continues to evolve, it is imperative that we foster a workforce that is adaptable and equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in an AI-augmented future.

The future of work is undeniably intertwined with the advancements of AI. By embracing the changes and preparing for the challenges, we can ensure that the impact of AI is positive and inclusive for all.

Bottom line: Futurology is not fortune telling. Futurists use a scientific approach to create their deliverables, but a methodology and tools like those in FutureHacking™ can empower anyone to engage in futurology themselves.

Image credit: Pixabay

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The Top 5 Change Leadership Models Every Leader Should Know

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The Top 5 Change Leadership Models Every Leader Should Know

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

Change leadership is a vital aspect of any organization’s success. It involves guiding and influencing the strategic transformation within companies to ensure they remain competitive and relevant. Here, we explore the top five change leadership models that have proven effective in various organizational settings, accompanied by two case studies that illustrate these models in action.

1. Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model

Developed by Harvard Business School professor John Kotter, this model provides a comprehensive step-by-step approach to implementing successful change. It emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of urgency, forming a powerful coalition, and generating short-term wins to maintain momentum1.

2. Lewin’s Change Management Model

Kurt Lewin’s model is one of the founding frameworks of change management. It’s built on the concept that change involves three stages: Unfreezing, Changing, and Refreezing. This model is particularly useful for understanding the human aspect of change and the need for a structured approach1.

3. McKinsey’s 7-S Model

The McKinsey 7-S model focuses on seven internal elements of an organization that need to be aligned for successful change: Strategy, Structure, Systems, Shared Values, Skills, Style, and Staff. It’s a holistic approach that considers both hard and soft aspects of the organization1.

4. Braden Kelley’s Flow of Change Model v1.5

According to Braden Kelley, “achieving successful change is a complex undertaking, that we must make a more human process so that it is less overwhelming for those most affected by it and for change leaders and planners as well. Change Leaders can simplify change in certain ways, but they can’t make it simple.”

When you see his model in the best-selling book Charting Change (now in its Second Edition), you will notice that there are not three, but eleven different distinct stages to strike the proper balance between simplicity and complexity. Braden Kelley highlights in the model that the Disequilibrium stage is where many change efforts fail. According to Kelley, “The organization has begun ending the old way of doing things (and potentially even celebrated that ending) and has tried doing things the new way. This leads to a feeling of disequilibrium in most people as they determine whether the new way is better and decide whether they feel justified in continuing to resist the new way or whether to acclimate to doing things the new way.”

People who license the Change Planning Toolkit get access to the Flow of Change Model v1.5 Worksheet and the ability to track the Triple-T Metric (Time to Transform) over time for equivalent size change initiatives to see whether their change realization efficiency is accelerating or not across the eleven stages.

5. The Kubler-Ross Change Curve

Based on the stages of grief, this model applies the emotional journey to organizational change. It helps leaders understand employee resistance to change and the emotional transition needed to accept new ways of working.

Case Study 1: Adobe’s Transformation of HR Functions

Adobe’s shift from traditional software sales to a cloud-based subscription model required a significant change in their HR functions. They applied the 7-S framework to align their internal strategies and structures with their new business model, leading to a successful transformation.

Case Study 2: Barclays Bank’s Change in Business Practices

Barclays Bank underwent a major shift in its ways of doing business to adapt to the digital age. They utilized Lewin’s model to unfreeze old habits, introduce new digital banking practices, and refreeze the new processes into the company culture, resulting in improved customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

Understanding and applying these change leadership models can significantly enhance a leader’s ability to steer their organization through the complexities of change. The case studies of Adobe and Barclays Bank serve as exemplary instances of how theoretical models can translate into practical success.

SPECIAL BONUS: Futurology is not fortune telling. Futurists use a scientific approach to create their deliverables, but a methodology and tools like those in FutureHacking™ can empower anyone to engage in futurology themselves.

Image credit: Pixabay

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New Capability Mapping Tools for Business Architects

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Despite already investing more than one million dollars in the new intellectual property included in the Change Planning Toolkit™, I will continue to take your feedback and invest in creating new tools that make the toolkit even more valuable for everyone.

Today I’m excited to announce the Change Planning Toolkit™ v11 which includes several new tools for:

Helping innovation leaders, business architects and transformation planners create current and future business capability maps

The Change Planning Canvas™ and the more than 70 tools in the toolkit will help make your change planning efforts more visual and collaborative, and enable you to get everyone literally all on the same page for change. The toolkit has been created to help organizations:

Beat the 70% failure rate for change programs
Quickly visualize, plan and execute change efforts
Deliver projects and change efforts on time
Accelerate implementation and adoption
Get valuable tools for a low investment

The tools easily integrate with other change methodologies like ProSci’s ADKAR, the Association of Change Management Professionals’ (ACMP) Standard, and the PMBOK used by Project Management Professionals (PMP).

Get your Change Planning Toolkit™ licenses now at a special price.

If you purchased a Change Planning Toolkit™ license over a year ago, you will want to renew your license so you can:

Download the latest version
Help shape future updates to the toolkit by contacting us to request new tools
Get access to any further updates over the next year

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IMPORTANT: If you already purchased the book and are looking to access the supporting material, please contact me with your proof of purchase and I’ll send you the file.
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Learning how to use the Change Planning Toolkit™ will create great opportunities for:

Organizations to build a continuous change capability
Consulting companies to increase revenue while achieving better client outcomes
Education companies to build new organizational change course offerings

So, what are you waiting for?

Don’t endure even one more change or project failure.

Get the Change Planning Toolkit™ v11 today!

Not sure what business architecture is or what a business capability map looks like?

Here is a hypothetical business architecture example of a business capability map from the Change Planning Toolkit™ v11 that these new tools will help you organize as part of your innovation, change or transformation efforts for current state and future state capability mappings:

Business Architecture example of a business capability map from Braden Kelley

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Importance of Change Management in Digital Transformation

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Importance of Change Management in Digital Transformation

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, digital transformation has become a critical component of success for organizations across all industries. While the benefits of embracing digital technologies are well-documented, the process of implementing these changes can often be challenging. This is where change management plays a pivotal role in ensuring the successful execution of digital transformation initiatives. Change management involves applying structured approaches to navigate organizational changes and help employees and stakeholders adapt to new ways of working.

How Change Management Fits In

Change management is essential in the context of digital transformation for several reasons. One of the key reasons is that digital transformation initiatives often involve significant shifts in processes, systems, and culture within an organization. Without effective change management, these changes can lead to resistance, confusion, and a lack of buy-in from employees, ultimately hindering the success of the transformation.

Furthermore, change management helps to create a supportive environment for employees as they navigate through the complexities of digital transformation. By providing clear communication, training, and support, change management professionals can help minimize the disruption caused by change and ensure a smooth transition to the new way of working.

Case Study 1: General Electric (GE)

General Electric, a multinational conglomerate, embarked on a digital transformation journey to streamline its operations and improve efficiency. The company implemented a series of digital solutions, including data analytics, AI, and IoT technologies, to enhance its manufacturing processes and customer service. However, GE encountered challenges in getting its employees to embrace these changes.

To address this issue, GE employed a robust change management strategy that involved engaging employees early in the process, providing them with the necessary training and support, and communicating the benefits of the digital transformation. By taking a proactive approach to change management, GE was able to successfully navigate the complexities of its digital transformation journey and achieve its business objectives.

Case Study 2: Netflix

Netflix, the streaming giant, is a prime example of a company that has leveraged digital transformation to disrupt the entertainment industry. Over the years, Netflix has continuously evolved its business model to stay ahead of the competition and meet the changing demands of consumers. From transitioning from DVD rentals to a subscription-based streaming platform, to investing heavily in content production and personalization algorithms, Netflix has demonstrated the power of digital transformation.

Key to Netflix’s success has been its ability to effectively manage change at every stage of its transformation journey. By fostering a culture of innovation, adaptability, and continuous learning, Netflix has been able to embrace change as a core tenet of its business strategy, enabling the company to stay relevant and competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

Conclusion

The importance of change management in digital transformation cannot be overstated. As organizations continue to navigate the complexities of digital disruption, it is imperative that they prioritize change management as a critical enabler of success. By investing in structured approaches to manage change, organizations can mitigate risks, foster employee engagement, and drive business results. The case studies of General Electric and Netflix serve as compelling examples of how effective change management can accelerate the pace of digital transformation and unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Image credit: Unsplash

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Innovation in Times of Crisis

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Navigating Uncertainty and Driving Change

Innovation in Times of Crisis

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

In times of crisis, businesses often face unprecedented challenges that demand swift and strategic action. The ability to innovate and adapt becomes crucial for survival and growth. While uncertainty may abound during periods of crisis, organizations that can harness their creativity and resilience can emerge stronger and more sustainable than before.

Case Study 1: Netflix

One of the most iconic examples of innovation in times of crisis is Netflix. The streaming giant started as a DVD-rental-by-mail service in the late 90s but faced an existential threat with the rise of online streaming and piracy. Instead of clinging to its outdated business model, Netflix pivoted towards streaming and original content production. This bold move paid off, and today Netflix is one of the leading streaming platforms globally, with a market value exceeding traditional media giants. By embracing change and constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation, Netflix transformed itself into a powerhouse in the entertainment industry.

Case Study 2: Airbnb

The travel industry was hit hard during the COVID-19 pandemic, with borders closed and travel restrictions in place worldwide. Airbnb, a disruptor in the hospitality industry, faced a significant drop in bookings and revenue. However, instead of succumbing to the crisis, Airbnb seized the opportunity to innovate and cater to changing consumer preferences. The company introduced new services such as virtual experiences and long-term stays to accommodate the shift towards remote work and online activities. This adaptability and forward-thinking approach enabled Airbnb to weather the storm and position itself for future success when travel resumes to normalcy.

Key Takeaways:

In times of crisis, innovation is not a luxury but a necessity for organizations to survive and thrive. To navigate uncertainty and drive change effectively, businesses must cultivate a culture of innovation, embrace risk-taking, and be open to re-imagining their business models. The case studies of Netflix and Airbnb demonstrate that successful innovation in times of crisis requires vision, agility, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. By learning from these examples and applying the lessons to their own contexts, organizations can harness the power of innovation to emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity.

Image credit: Pixabay

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The Importance of Empathy in Design Thinking

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The Importance of Empathy in Design Thinking

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

Empathy is at the core of design thinking, the innovative problem-solving approach that puts human needs and experiences at the forefront of the design process. It is the ability to truly understand and share in the feelings and experiences of others, and it is a critical element in creating products, services, and experiences that resonate with users on a deep and meaningful level.

Empathy allows designers to put themselves in the shoes of their users, to see the world from their perspective, and to uncover insights that can inform the design process. By empathizing with users, designers can better understand their needs, desires, and pain points, and create solutions that truly meet their needs.

Case Study 1: OXO Good Grips

One powerful example of the importance of empathy in design thinking is the story of the OXO Good Grips kitchen tools. In the 1980s, Sam Farber noticed that his wife, who was struggling with arthritis, had difficulty using traditional kitchen tools. He realized that there was a need for kitchen tools that were both functional and comfortable to use for people with limited dexterity. Farber and his team at OXO set out to design a line of kitchen tools that were easy to grip and use, with soft, comfortable handles that were easy on the hands. The result was a line of tools that were not only popular among people with arthritis but also became a bestseller among all consumers, demonstrating the power of empathetic design in creating products that meet the needs of a diverse range of users.

Case Study 2: Airbnb

Another compelling case study that illustrates the importance of empathy in design thinking is Airbnb. When the founders of Airbnb, Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia, were struggling to pay rent, they decided to rent out air mattresses in their living room as a way to make some extra money. They quickly realized that there was a need for affordable, unique, and authentic accommodations for travelers, and they set out to create a platform that connected hosts with travelers looking for a more personalized and local experience. By empathizing with both hosts and travelers, Airbnb was able to create a platform that has revolutionized the travel industry and disrupted traditional hotel accommodations, showing the power of designing with empathy for the needs and experiences of users.

Conclusion

Empathy is a crucial element in design thinking that allows designers to create products, services, and experiences that truly resonate with users. By putting themselves in the shoes of their users and truly understanding their needs and experiences, designers can create solutions that address real-world problems and connect with users on a deeper level. The case studies of OXO Good Grips and Airbnb are just two examples of how empathy in design thinking can lead to innovative and successful products that have a real impact on people’s lives.

Image credit: Pixabay

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The Future of Work

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How Emerging Technologies Will Shape the Way We Work

The Future of Work: How Emerging Technologies Will Shape the Way We Work

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

The way we work is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology that are reshaping the workplace landscape. From automation and artificial intelligence to virtual reality and the Internet of Things, emerging technologies are revolutionizing how we work, collaborate, and communicate. In this article, we will explore the future of work and how these emerging technologies will shape the way we work.

1. Automation and Artificial Intelligence

Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming the way we work by streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, and enabling innovation. Case in point, Amazon’s fulfillment centers utilize a high level of automation through the use of robotics to improve inventory management and order fulfillment. By automating repetitive tasks, workers can focus on more complex and value-added activities, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.

AI, on the other hand, is revolutionizing industries like healthcare and finance by providing data-driven insights and predictive analytics. For example, IBM’s Watson Health platform uses AI to analyze vast amounts of medical data to diagnose and recommend treatment options for patients. AI is also being used in financial services to detect fraud, optimize investment strategies, and provide personalized customer experiences.

2. Virtual Reality and Remote Collaboration

Virtual reality (VR) is changing the way we collaborate and communicate in the workplace by enabling immersive experiences and remote interactions. Companies like Walmart are using VR for employee training, allowing workers to practice real-life scenarios in a virtual environment. This not only improves learning retention but also reduces training costs and increases operational efficiency.

Remote collaboration tools, such as video conferencing and virtual meetings, are becoming increasingly popular as more companies embrace remote work. With the rise of distributed teams and flexible work arrangements, technologies like Microsoft Teams and Zoom are facilitating seamless communication and collaboration among remote employees. This shift towards virtual collaboration is not only increasing employee satisfaction but also expanding access to global talent pools.

Conclusion

The future of work is being shaped by emerging technologies that are transforming the workplace landscape. From automation and AI to VR and remote collaboration, these technologies are revolutionizing how we work, collaborate, and communicate. As organizations adapt to these changes, they must embrace innovation and invest in digital transformation to stay competitive in the evolving business environment. By leveraging these technologies effectively, companies can drive productivity, foster creativity, and create a more agile and connected workforce. The future of work is here, and it’s time to embrace the opportunities that these emerging technologies offer.

Image credit: Pixabay

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Starbucks Upgrading the Last Minute of the Mobile Ordering Journey

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Starbucks Upgrading the Last Minute of the Mobile Ordering Journey

Starbucks is definitely regarded as an innovator in the mobile commerce and loyalty space.

Starbucks was one of the first retailers (2008) to successfully introduce a card-based loyalty program with broad adoption – the Starbucks card – which not only had loyalty benefits for customers but also could be used as a means of payment.

Building from this, Starbucks created a mobile app early in the smartphone era that mirrored many of the capabilities of the Starbucks card, allowing people to not only pay with their mobile phone (backed by a credit card), but to check their points and payment balances.

Starbucks then launched mobile order & pay in Portland near the end of 2014 before beginning to release it more broadly in 2015.

All of Starbucks’ loyalty and mobile technology inventions positioned the company quite well to survive the COVID-19 shutdowns around the world.

Starbucks Mobile Ordering

Personally I try to keep as many apps OFF my phone as possible. So, it wasn’t until the coronavirus restrictions that I finally caved in and downloaded the Starbucks app. The reason?

Given the pandemic, the last thing I wanted to do was stand around in an enclosed space with suspect ventilation waiting for my Starbucks beverage any longer than I had do. So, I downloaded the app and began ordering my drink from the car and waiting 4-5 minutes (or longer if they looked busy) before going inside to get my drink.

What I found annoying though was that the app gave an estimate that often was in the 15-23 minute range, despite the fact that it rarely took more than five minutes, and there was no notification when my drink was ready.

I started designing a better approach in my mind, and was about to suggest it to Starbucks when I happened upon what is likely a pilot in one of my local Starbucks. It looks like this:

Starbucks Mobile Order Board

At this particular pilot Starbucks they have this flat screen that shows the people who have mobile orders placed (in alphabetical order) and then the Starbucks employee at the end of the line has a tablet they manage.

When an order is complete, the Starbucks employee updates the order status to ‘READY’ on the tablet, the image on the board changes to show a READY indicator, and a text message is sent to the person’s phone.

When the customer picks up their order, then the Starbucks employee marks it ‘PICKED UP’ on the tablet so that the person’s name is removed from the board.

This is very close to the idea that I was going to propose, but with one big exception.

My idea was to suggest printing out an enhanced bar code that could be scanned at the end of the line by the barista to trigger the text message – instead of using a tablet and a screen. This could have been a much simpler and cheaper approach both in terms of technology and labor.

Either way, there is no doubt that Starbucks continues to experiment and push for improvements in the last minute of the mobile ordering journey to create a great experience. This enables them to keep their employees and customers healthy and safe, and keep Starbucks ahead of their competition.

Keep innovating!

Image (2) credit: Digitaltrends.com

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The Power of Human-Centered Design

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How Putting People First Can Drive Innovation

The Power of Human-Centered Design

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

Human-Centered Design (HCD) is a powerful approach that prioritizes understanding the needs and behaviors of users to create innovative solutions. By focusing on the end user throughout the design process, companies can develop products and services that truly resonate with customers and drive business success. In this article, we will explore the power of Human-Centered Design by examining two case studies that demonstrate how putting people first can lead to groundbreaking innovation.

Case Study 1: Airbnb

Founded in 2008, Airbnb revolutionized the hospitality industry by connecting travelers with unique accommodations around the world. At the heart of Airbnb’s success is their commitment to HCD. From the very beginning, the founders of Airbnb understood the importance of creating a platform that catered to the needs and desires of both hosts and guests.

By conducting extensive user research and testing, Airbnb was able to identify pain points in the traditional hospitality industry, such as lack of personalization, limited options, and high costs. Armed with this insight, Airbnb developed a platform that allowed hosts to list their properties and guests to book unique and affordable accommodations.

Through continuous iteration and feedback from users, Airbnb refined its platform to better meet the needs of both hosts and guests. By putting people first, Airbnb has transformed the way people travel and experience new destinations, leading to tremendous growth and success for the company.

Case Study 2: IDEO

IDEO is a global design and innovation consultancy that has been at the forefront of HCD for over 40 years. IDEO’s approach to innovation is rooted in empathy and understanding the needs of users to create human-centered solutions. One of IDEO’s most famous projects is the redesign of the shopping cart for a major retailer.

Rather than jumping straight to solutions, IDEO immersed themselves in the shopping experience, observing and interacting with customers to understand their pain points and frustrations. Through this research, IDEO discovered that customers struggled with the unwieldy and inconvenient design of traditional shopping carts.

Using this insight, IDEO created a new shopping cart design that was more user-friendly and intuitive, with features such as larger wheels for easier maneuverability and integrated storage compartments. The redesigned shopping cart not only improved the shopping experience for customers but also increased sales for the retailer.

Conclusion

The case studies of Airbnb and IDEO demonstrate the power of Human-Centered Design in driving innovation and success. By putting people first and prioritizing the needs and experiences of users, companies can create products and services that truly resonate with customers. Whether you are designing a digital platform or a physical product, incorporating HCD principles into your process can lead to groundbreaking innovation and lasting impact. As the business world continues to evolve, embracing a human-centered approach will be essential for companies looking to thrive in the digital age.

Image credit: Pixabay

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