Category Archives: Change

Leadership in Change Planning

Essential Qualities for Guiding Successful Transformations

Leadership in Change Planning

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

Change is inevitable in both personal and professional life. In the business world, this is especially true as companies need to constantly adapt to new market trends, technological advancements, and evolving customer expectations. However, navigating through change can be a daunting task for leaders. It requires not only strategic planning and clear communication but also a set of essential qualities that can guide successful transformations.

One of the key qualities that a leader must possess in change planning is visionary thinking. A visionary leader can see beyond the current circumstances and envision a better future for the organization. They have the ability to inspire and motivate others to work towards a common goal, even in the face of uncertainty and challenges. By setting a clear direction and communicating a compelling vision, they can rally their team behind them and drive positive change.

Another essential quality for guiding successful transformations is emotional intelligence. Change can be a turbulent and emotional process for employees, as it often involves letting go of the familiar and embracing the unknown. A leader with high emotional intelligence understands the impact of change on individuals and can empathize with their concerns and fears. By fostering open communication, providing support, and showing empathy, they can help their team navigate through the transition more effectively.

To illustrate the importance of these essential qualities in change planning, let’s examine two case studies of successful transformations led by visionary and emotionally intelligent leaders.

Case Study 1: Steve Jobs and the Turnaround of Apple Inc.

Steve Jobs, the co-founder and former CEO of Apple Inc., is widely recognized as one of the most visionary leaders in the tech industry. In the late 1990s, Apple was on the brink of bankruptcy due to declining sales and lackluster products. Jobs returned to the company as CEO in 1997 and embarked on a series of transformative initiatives, including the launch of the groundbreaking iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad.

Jobs’ visionary thinking was instrumental in redefining Apple’s brand and product portfolio. He saw the potential of combining technology with design to create innovative and user-friendly products that would revolutionize the industry. By articulating a clear vision for the company and inspiring his team to think differently, Jobs was able to steer Apple towards unprecedented success and profitability.

Moreover, Jobs demonstrated high emotional intelligence in his leadership approach. He understood the fears and doubts of his employees during the turnaround process and took the time to listen to their concerns. By fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and trust, he encouraged his team to embrace change and push the boundaries of what was possible. This combination of visionary thinking and emotional intelligence ultimately led to the successful transformation of Apple Inc. into one of the world’s most valuable and influential technology companies.

Case Study 2: Satya Nadella and the Cultural Transformation of Microsoft

Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, is another example of a leader who has demonstrated exceptional qualities in change planning. When Nadella took the helm of Microsoft in 2014, the company was facing significant challenges in adapting to the fast-changing tech landscape. As a cloud-focused leader, Nadella recognized the need for a cultural transformation within the organization to foster innovation and agility.

Nadella’s visionary thinking was evident in his strategic shift towards cloud computing and artificial intelligence. He saw the potential of these technologies in driving Microsoft’s growth and competitiveness in the digital age. By articulating a bold vision for the company’s future and aligning his team around it, Nadella was able to accelerate Microsoft’s transformation into a leading cloud services provider.

In addition, Nadella displayed a high level of emotional intelligence in his leadership style. He recognized the importance of empowering employees and embracing diversity and inclusion as key drivers of innovation. By fostering a culture of openness, collaboration, and continuous learning, he created a supportive environment where employees felt motivated to contribute their best ideas and talents to drive the company’s success.

The combination of visionary thinking and emotional intelligence in his leadership approach has been instrumental in Microsoft’s resurgence as a tech powerhouse. Under Nadella’s guidance, the company has successfully navigated through major organizational changes and emerged as a leader in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation.

Conclusion

Leadership in change planning requires a unique blend of essential qualities, including visionary thinking and emotional intelligence. By exemplifying these qualities, leaders can guide successful transformations that drive organizational growth, innovation, and sustainability. The case studies of Steve Jobs and Satya Nadella demonstrate how visionary and emotionally intelligent leaders can inspire their teams to embrace change and achieve remarkable results. As we navigate through an increasingly complex and uncertain business landscape, it is crucial for leaders to cultivate these essential qualities to lead their organizations towards a brighter future.

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: Pexels

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Remote Project Management – The Visual Project Charter™

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Remote Project Management - The Visual Project Charter™

The truth is that for most of us project managers, whether we want to admit it or not, the process of creating a project charter is one that we often dread.

We sit there in front of a Microsoft Word template blinking at us on the screen and realize just how much missing or incomplete information we have when we begin typing into the one of the very first, and potentially most important artifacts for any project.

We know we face the sending of a series of emails, follow up emails, follow up to the follow up emails, and maybe even some escalation emails and phone calls just to get the information we need to create the first draft of a project charter. And that’s before we even begin trying to get alignment, buy-in, and sign-off on the document.

Now, add in the challenges of trying to create a project charter when everyone is working remotely and our sacred task of initiating a project doesn’t get any easier.

So, there has never been a better time to leverage the Visual Project Charter™.

The Visual Project Charter™

With online whiteboarding tools like Mural, Miro, LucidSpark and Microsoft Whiteboard you can easily download the Visual Project Charter™ for FREE as a JPEG and upload it as a background to place digital sticky notes on as you collaborate with cross-functional team virtually using Zoom, Cisco WebEx or Microsoft Teams.

Click here to access the PDF poster (35″x56″) and JPEG of the Visual Project Charter™

To help give you a better idea of how easy this is to do and what it might look like, I created the following short six-minute video introduction to the Visual Project Charter™ to show how easy it is to take the JPEG and upload it as a background into online whiteboarding tools like Mural, Miro, LucidSpark or Microsoft Whiteboard where you can place digital sticky notes instead of real ones as you collaborate with cross-functional team virtually using Zoom, Cisco WebEx or Microsoft Teams.

Click here to access the PDF poster (35″x56″) and JPEG of the Visual Project Charter™

Remote Project Management

Whether you download the Visual Project Charter™ PDF and print it as a poster (35″x56″) or use the JPEG in the digital world I’m sure you’ll agree that this a much more visual, collaborative, enjoyable and effective way to gather all of the information to populate your project charter and build the buy-in and alignment necessary to make your project a success!

Here is a step-by-step guide for how to use the Visual Project Charter™ with online whiteboarding tools like Miro, Mural, LucidSpark and Microsoft Whiteboard:

Download the Visual Project Charter™ from this web site

(both JPEG and PDF)

Create a new workspace in your online whiteboarding tool (Miro, Mural, LucidSpark or Microsoft Whiteboard)

Upload the JPEG version of the Visual Project Charter™ to your online whiteboarding tool

MIRO – ‘Upload->My Device’ (left side icons)
MURAL -‘Images->import images’ (left side icons)
LUCIDSPARK – ‘Insert->Images’ (under hamburger menu on the top)
WHITEBOARD – ‘Images->Library Image’ (bottom icons)

Resize the JPEG image after it is added

Lock the JPEG image down so people can’t move it around when placing their sticky notes

Create work areas around the Visual Project Charter™ to give you larger, targeted areas to work (if desired)

Plan and execute your cross-functional team meeting to populate the Visual Project Charter™ via Zoom or Cisco WebEx or Microsoft teams when the workspace is built

Have fun!

Use the results of your Visual Project Charter™ session to create a traditional project charter and route it for signatures

I’m sure you’ll get a lot of value out of the Visual Project Charter™, especially when using it as part of your remote project management best practices.

And, if you like the Visual Project Charter™, you will LOVE the Change Planning Toolkit™ and should definitely pick up copies of my books:

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Change Metrics that Matter

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Measuring the Impact of Change Initiatives

Change Metrics that Matter

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

In today’s dynamic business environment, organizations are constantly undergoing change to stay competitive and adapt to market demands. However, implementing change initiatives can be challenging, and measuring the impact of these efforts is essential to ensure their success. It is crucial for organizations to not only track the progress of change initiatives but also measure their effectiveness and impact on key metrics. In this article, we will explore the importance of measuring change metrics that matter and highlight two case study examples of organizations that have successfully measured the impact of their change initiatives.

Measuring the impact of change initiatives is crucial for organizations to understand whether their efforts are driving the desired results and achieving their intended goals. Without proper measurement, organizations may struggle to quantify the success of their change initiatives and identify areas for improvement. By establishing clear metrics and measuring progress against them, organizations can track the effectiveness of their change initiatives, identify areas of success, and pivot their approach if necessary.

One key aspect of measuring the impact of change initiatives is identifying the right metrics to track. While traditional metrics such as cost savings and revenue growth are important, organizations should also consider measuring softer metrics such as employee engagement, customer satisfaction, and organizational culture. By tracking a combination of both hard and soft metrics, organizations can gain a holistic understanding of the impact of their change initiatives and ensure they are driving long-term success.

Case Study 1: Company A

Company A, a global technology company, embarked on a large-scale organizational restructuring to streamline operations and improve efficiency. To measure the impact of this change initiative, the company tracked metrics such as employee productivity, customer satisfaction, and time-to-market for new products. By analyzing these metrics over time, Company A was able to identify areas where the change initiative was successful and areas that required further attention. As a result, the company was able to make data-driven decisions to optimize its change initiative and achieve its desired outcomes.

Case Study 2: Company B

Company B, a healthcare organization, implemented a new electronic health record system to improve patient care and streamline operations. To measure the impact of this change initiative, the organization tracked metrics such as patient outcomes, staff satisfaction, and operational efficiency. By analyzing these metrics, Company B was able to identify that the new system led to faster patient check-ins, improved accuracy of patient records, and increased staff satisfaction. As a result, the organization was able to demonstrate the success of its change initiative and make continuous improvements to enhance patient care further.

Conclusion

Measuring the impact of change initiatives is essential for organizations to drive success and achieve their desired outcomes. By tracking a combination of hard and soft metrics, organizations can gain a holistic understanding of the effectiveness of their change initiatives and make data-driven decisions to optimize their approach. The case study examples of Company A and Company B highlight the importance of measuring change metrics that matter and the positive impact it can have on organizational success. As organizations continue to navigate change in an ever-evolving business landscape, measuring the impact of change initiatives will be crucial to driving sustainable growth and success.

Bottom line: Futures research 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 futures research themselves.

Image credit: misterinnovation.com

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Overcoming Resistance to Change

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Embracing Innovation at Every Level

Overcoming Resistance to Change

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, embracing innovation is no longer a choice; it’s a necessity. Organizations that resist change risk becoming stagnant, losing their competitive edge, and failing to meet the ever-changing needs of their customers. However, implementing change is often met with resistance from employees at all levels. This article explores the importance of overcoming resistance to change and provides two case studies that highlight successful examples of organizations that embraced innovation.

Case Study 1: Netflix’s Transformation from DVD Rental to Streaming Powerhouse

Netflix is a prime example of a company that transformed its business model to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry. In the late 90s and early 2000s, Netflix was primarily known as a DVD rental-by-mail service. However, with the rise of digital media and streaming platforms, Netflix recognized the need to evolve.

The executives at Netflix embraced the challenging task of shifting their focus from physical DVDs to online streaming. This transition required a complete overhaul of their infrastructure, as well as a mindset shift throughout the entire organization. However, they faced resistance from employees who were comfortable with the existing business model.

To overcome this resistance to change, Netflix’s leadership implemented several strategies. First, they communicated the urgency and importance of embracing digital innovation, emphasizing that failure to do so could result in the company’s demise. They also invested in employees’ professional development, providing training and education to ensure everyone had the necessary skills to adapt to the digital landscape.

By involving employees at every level in the transformation process, Netflix successfully overcame resistance to change. Today, the company is a global streaming powerhouse, providing on-demand entertainment to millions of subscribers worldwide.

Case Study 2: The Agile Transformation of Spotify

Spotify, the popular music streaming platform, faced its own challenges when trying to innovate and scale rapidly. Like many companies, they experienced difficulties with hierarchical structures and bureaucracy that hindered innovation and agility.

To address these challenges, Spotify undertook an innovative organizational transformation, adopting the agile methodology. This shift involved breaking down traditional functional silos and organizing teams into small, cross-functional units called “squads.” Each squad was responsible for a specific area of the product, encouraging collaboration and rapid decision-making.

Leadership at Spotify knew that overcoming resistance to change required a bottoms-up approach. They empowered employees to experiment, take ownership, and challenge existing ways of doing things. This not only fostered a culture of innovation but also gave individuals a sense of autonomy and purpose, leading to higher motivation and productivity.

By embracing the values of the agile methodology, Spotify transformed its entire organization, unlocking unprecedented innovation and adaptability. Today, it remains a global leader in the music streaming industry, continuously evolving to meet the demands of its users.

Conclusion

Change and innovation are essential for organizational growth and success in today’s dynamic environment. However, organizations must also recognize and address the resistance that accompanies these shifts. By involving employees at every level, providing training and support, and fostering a culture of ownership and autonomy, organizations can successfully overcome resistance to change. The case studies of Netflix and Spotify demonstrate the power of embracing innovation, transforming organizations, and remaining agile in the face of constant change.

Image credit: Pixabay

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Navigating Uncertainty and Ambiguity During Change

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Providing Advice on How Individuals Can Adapt and Navigate Through Uncertain and Ambiguous Situations That Arise During Periods of Change

Navigating Uncertainty and Ambiguity During Change

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

Change is an inevitable and constant aspect of life. Whether it’s a career transition, a company merger, or a global crisis, periods of change often bring forth uncertainty and ambiguity. These situations can be overwhelming and challenging to navigate, but with the right mindset and approach, individuals can learn to adapt and prosper. In this thought leadership article, we will explore strategies to successfully navigate uncertainty and ambiguity during change, backed by two compelling case study examples.

1. Embrace the Growth Mindset:

During times of change, one of the most important qualities individuals can cultivate is a growth mindset. This mindset is characterized by a belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and effort. By adopting this perspective, individuals can view uncertainty and ambiguity as opportunities to learn, grow, and improve.

Case Study Example 1:

Emily was a middle manager in a financial services firm undergoing a significant restructuring. As her team’s roles and reporting lines became unclear, Emily chose to embrace the growth mindset. She focused on developing new skills, taking on additional responsibilities, and proactively seeking feedback from her superiors. By adopting this approach, Emily not only gained new knowledge but also emerged as a valuable asset to the organization. Her willingness to adapt and learn ultimately led to a promotion to a senior leadership role.

Case Study Example 2:

Tom, a recent graduate, found himself facing uncertainty when the pandemic hit, causing a major economic downturn. With limited job opportunities available, Tom decided to embrace the growth mindset. He used this time to enhance his professional skills, network, and explore alternative career paths. Tom learned a new programming language and leveraged his virtual network to secure freelance projects. This adaptability not only provided him with immediate income but also opened doors to future employment opportunities in a growing industry.

2. Develop Resilience and Flexibility:

Uncertainty and ambiguity can be emotionally challenging, often leading to stress, anxiety, and even self-doubt. To navigate these difficult situations successfully, individuals must develop resilience and flexibility.

Case Study Example 1:

Sarah had been working as a marketing professional in a well-established company when she was abruptly let go due to downsizing. In a state of shock and confusion, Sarah faced multiple rejections and setbacks while searching for a new job. Recognizing the importance of resilience, she sought support from a career coach, maintaining a positive mindset throughout the process. This helped Sarah stay focused and motivated, enabling her to find a new role with more responsibilities and increased job satisfaction.

Case Study Example 2:

Carlos, a manager in a manufacturing company, was faced with ambiguity during a corporate acquisition that led to a significant restructuring. As roles and responsibilities were being redefined, Carlos recognized the necessity of flexibility. He openly communicated with his team, encouraged collaboration, and embraced the changes with a solution-oriented mindset. Carlos’s adaptability made him the go-to person for colleagues, fostering teamwork and establishing him as a trusted leader in the organization.

Conclusion

Navigating uncertainty and ambiguity during change requires individuals to embrace a growth mindset and develop resilience and flexibility. By perceiving change as an opportunity for growth and continuously adapting to new circumstances, individuals can not only survive but thrive. The case study examples of Emily, Tom, Sarah, and Carlos illustrate how these strategies can lead to personal and professional success. Embracing change and navigating uncertainty holds great potential for individuals to shape their own futures, regardless of the circumstances they face.

Image credit: Pixabay

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Climate Change and the Technologies Shaping a Sustainable Future

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Climate Change and the Technologies Shaping a Sustainable Future

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

Climate change is one of the most urgent and pressing challenges faced by humanity today. The increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are causing rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and significant impacts on ecosystems and human societies. Addressing climate change requires innovative and sustainable solutions that can mitigate the causes and adapt to the consequences. Fortunately, advancements in technology are playing a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future. This article will explore two case study examples of how technology is helping combat climate change.

Case Study 1: Renewable Energy and the Power of Innovation

Renewable energy technologies are transforming the energy landscape and offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Solar and wind energy have become key players in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.

One remarkable case study is the Tengger Desert Solar Park in China, the largest solar farm in the world. Located in the Tengger Desert, this facility covers an area of over 43 square kilometers, harnessing the abundant sunlight to generate clean electricity. With a capacity of 1.5 GW, it supplies power to millions of households, significantly reducing CO2 emissions. The Tengger Desert Solar Park demonstrates the immense potential of solar energy and highlights the importance of large-scale renewable projects in transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

Another case study is the Block Island Wind Farm, situated off the coast of Rhode Island, USA. This pioneering offshore wind farm was the first of its kind in the country, providing clean energy to the local grid. With only five turbines, it may seem small, but it has a capacity of 30 MW, capable of powering more than 17,000 homes. The Block Island Wind Farm showcases the potential of wind energy to de-carbonize the electricity sector and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

These case studies demonstrate that renewable energy technologies like solar and wind power can rapidly transform the energy landscape, contributing to a more sustainable future. Continued innovation and investments in renewable energy can bring us closer to achieving a carbon-neutral society and combating climate change effectively.

Case Study 2: Smart Agriculture and Precision Farming

Another area where technology is revolutionizing sustainability is agriculture. The world’s growing population necessitates increased food production while minimizing the environmental impact. Smart agriculture and precision farming techniques have emerged as promising solutions.

Vertical farming, for example, is a technology-driven approach to cultivate crops indoors, utilizing artificial light and efficient water usage. Japan’s Mirai no Toukei Kansai project exemplifies this concept. Located in an urban setting, this vertical farm occupies a small area but produces the equivalent of 10,000 square meters of traditional farmland. By leveraging advanced technologies such as LED lights, hydroponics, and AI-controlled systems, this vertical farm minimizes water usage, reduces pesticide dependence, and eliminates transportation emissions associated with long-distance food delivery. Vertical farming demonstrates the potential of technology to revolutionize traditional agricultural practices and ensure a sustainable food supply.

Similarly, precision farming techniques employ advanced technologies like sensors, drones, and data analytics to optimize agricultural practices. For instance, FarmLogs, a technology platform developed in the United States, collects and analyses data from various sources to provide farmers with real-time insights about their crops. By precisely monitoring crop health and nutrient requirements, farmers can minimize resource wastage while maximizing yields. Precision farming contributes to efficient resource management, reduced fertilization, minimized water use, and ultimately, more sustainable agricultural practices.

Conclusion

Addressing climate change requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders, and technology plays a critical role in enabling the transition to a more sustainable future. The case studies of the Tengger Desert Solar Park, the Block Island Wind Farm, Mirai no Toukei Kansai vertical farm, and precision farming techniques exemplify the power of innovation and technology in combatting climate change. By continuing to invest in renewable energy, smart agriculture, and other sustainable technologies, we can create a more resilient and sustainable world for future generations. It is essential to embrace and leverage these advancements to ensure a brighter future for our planet.

Image credit: Unsplash

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Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2020

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After a week of torrid voting and much passionate support, along with a lot of gut-wrenching consideration and jostling during the judging round, I am proud to announce your Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2020:

Janet Sernack
Janet Sernack is the Founder and CEO of ImagineNation™ which provides innovation consulting services to help organizations adapt, innovate and grow through disruption by challenging businesses to be, think and act differently to co-create a world where people matter & innovation is the norm.

Tom Koulopoulos
Tom Koulopoulos is the author of 10 books and founder of the Delphi Group, a 25-year-old Boston-based think tank and a past Inc. 500 company that focuses on innovation and the future of business. He tweets from @tkspeaks.

Braden Kelley
Braden Kelley is a Design Thinking, Innovation and Transformation Consultant, a popular innovation speaker and workshop leader, and helps companies plan organizational changes that are more human and less overwhelming. He is the author of two five-star books, Stoking Your Innovation Bonfire and Charting Change, and the creator of a revolutionary new Change Planning Toolkit™. Follow him on Linkedin and Twitter (@innovate).

Greg Satell
Greg Satell is a popular speaker and consultant. His first book, Mapping Innovation: A Playbook for Navigating a Disruptive Age, was selected as one of the best business books in 2017. Follow his blog at Digital Tonto or on Twitter @Digital Tonto.

Mike Shipulski
Mike Shipulski brings together people, culture, and tools to change engineering behavior. He writes daily on Twitter as @MikeShipulski and weekly on his blog Shipulski On Design.

Phil McKinney
Phil McKinney is the Author of “Beyond The Obvious”, Host of the Killer Innovations Podcast and Syndicated Radio Show, a Keynote Speaker, President & CEO CableLabs and an Innovation Mentor and Coach.
Soren Kaplan
Soren Kaplan is the bestselling and award-winning author of Leapfrogging and The Invisible Advantage, an affiliated professor at USC’s Center for Effective Organizations, a former corporate executive, and a co-founder of UpBOARD. He has been recognized by the Thinkers50 as one of the world’s top keynote speakers and thought leaders in business strategy and innovation.

Eric Eskey
Eric Eskey is a Managing Director at Strategyn, an innovation consultancy. Eric is in the business of creating the future. I aim to use the resources he has – his work, investments, voice, and imagination – to encourage innovation and defeat the hidden forces that resist it.
Scott Anthony
Scott Anthony is a strategic advisor, writer and speaker on topics of growth and innovation. He has been based in Singapore since 2010, and currently serves at the Managing Director of Innosight’s Asia-Pacific operations.
Kate Hammer
Kate Hammer is a joint founder of KILN, working with large-scale companies in the USA and Australia to transform their internal innovation processes. Kate works as a business storyteller. In 2012, she created StoryFORMs to help others articulate their commercial & organisational stories. Kate offers workshops & 1:1 coaching.

Michael Graber
Michael Graber is the cofounder and managing partner at Southern Growth Studio, a Memphis-based firm that specializes in growth strategy and innovation. A published poet and musician, Graber is the creative force that complements the analytical side of the house. He speaks and publishes frequently on best practices in design thinking, business strategy, and innovation and earned an MFA from the University of Memphis.

Nicolas Bry
Nicolas Bry is Orange Startups Studio Founder. He entices Orange employees in engaging as intrapreneurs, bringing their idea to life within Orange business. Nicolas is equally a passionate expert for innovation labs exploring new business. International speaker (TEDx), delivering Masterclasses @Google Academy, and Tech/Business Schools, ISPIM Prize for innovation management, Nicolas is Writer of RapidInnovation.fr, and of The Intrapreneurs’ Factory. Follow him at @nicobry.

Paul Sloane
Paul Sloane writes, speaks and leads workshops on creativity, innovation and leadership. He is the author of The Innovative Leader and editor of A Guide to Open Innovation and Crowdsourcing, both published by Kogan-Page.

Yoram Solomon
Dr. Yoram Solomon is the author of The Book of Trust and 12 more books, a TEDx and keynote speaker, the founder of the Innovation Culture Institute, and an adjunct professor of entrepreneurship. You can follow him everywhere on @yoramsolomon.

Jeffrey Phillips
Jeffrey Phillips has over 15 years of experience leading innovation in Fortune 500 companies, federal government agencies and non-profits. He is experienced in innovation strategy, defining and implementing front end processes, tools and teams and leading innovation projects. He is the author of Relentless Innovation and OutManeuver. Jeffrey writes the popular Innovate on Purpose blog. Follow him @ovoinnovation

Jesse Nieminen
Jesse Nieminen is the Co-founder and Chairman at Viima, the best way to collect and develop ideas. Viima’s innovation management software is already loved by thousands of organizations all the way to the Global Fortune 500. He’s passionate about helping leaders drive innovation in their organizations and frequently writes on the topic, usually in Viima’s blog.

Robert B Tucker
Robert B. Tucker is the President of The Innovation Resource Consulting Group. He is a speaker, seminar leader and an expert in the management of innovation and assisting companies in accelerating ideas to market.

Shelly Greenway
Shelly Greenway is a front-end innovation strategist and partner at The Strategy Distillery – a brand innovation consultancy that specialises in opportunity hunting and proposition development. Their success rates are driven by their proprietary consumer co-creation IP. Follow @ChiefDistiller

John Bessant
John Bessant has been active in research, teaching, and consulting in technology and innovation management for over 25 years. Today, he is Chair in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Research Director, at Exeter University. In 2003, he was awarded a Fellowship with the Advanced Institute for Management Research and was also elected a Fellow of the British Academy of Management. He has acted as advisor to various national governments and international bodies including the United Nations, The World Bank, and the OECD. John has authored many books including Managing innovation and High Involvement Innovation (Wiley). Follow @johnbessant

Shilpi Kumar
Shilpi Kumar an inquisitive researcher, designer, strategist and an educator with over 15 years of experience, who truly believes that we can design a better world by understanding human behavior. I work with organizations to identify strategic opportunities and offer user-centric solutions.

Francesco Pagano
Francesco Pagano, Vice President, EMEA Head of Portfolio of Licenses Brands at Fossil Group Europe, is passionate about craft brands, innovation, brand management, brand communication and international business. He is always up for irresistible product concepts, ultimate communication via integrated campaigns and great Italian food.

Dimis Michaelides
Dimis Michaelides is a keynote speaker, author, consultant and trainer in leadership, creativity and innovation. Contact him for a workshop or a presentation at dimis@dimis.org or register for his newsletter at www.dimis.org . You can also connect with him on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

Greg Heist
Greg Heist is the Chief Innovation Officer at Gongos, a decision intelligence company.
Gijs van Wulfen
Gijs van Wulfen helps organizations to structure the chaotic start of innovation as author, speaker and facilitator. He is the founder of the FORTH innovation method and author of the innovation bestseller The Innovation Expedition. He was chosen by LinkedIn as one of their first 150 Influencers. Follow Gijs @gijsvanwulfen
Shawn Nason
Shawn Nason, founder and CEO of MOFI, lives his life with a commitment to make everyone he meets a part of his family. Armed with the gift of discernment, he has the uncanny ability to walk alongside people as they struggle to connect with their deepest passions and engage their most debilitating demons. He challenges the world around him to be fully present, get real, and knock down the barrier that separates the various compartments in their lives.
Pete Foley
A twenty-five year Procter & Gamble veteran, Pete has spent the last 8+ years applying insights from psychology and behavioral science to innovation, product design, and brand communication. He spent 17 years as a serial innovator, creating novel products, perfume delivery systems, cleaning technologies, devices and many other consumer-centric innovations, resulting in well over 100 granted or published patents. Find him at pete.mindmatters@gmail.com

Tamara Ghandour
Tamara Ghandour of GoToLaunchStreet is a TED speaker and entrepreneur. From building and running multimillion dollar businesses, advising Fortune 500 like Disney, Procter and Gamble and RICOH on fostering innovative ideas and people. Tamara’s life is about breaking through the status quo for game-changing results, and that’s what her keynotes, online programs and assessments can do for you.

John Carter
John Carter has been a widely respected adviser to technology firms over his career. John is the author of Innovate Products Faster: Graphical Tools for Accelerating Product Development. As Founder and Principal of TCGen Inc., he has advised some of the most revered technology firms in the world.

Jeff Rubingh
Jeff Rubingh is a technology innovation expert, consultant and analyst. Focused on the intersection between technology and business, Jeff helps clients identify ground-breaking solutions that maximize ROI across existing and emerging technology disciplines.

Ludwig Melik
Ludwig Melik is CEO of Planbox, whose mission is to help organizations thrive by transforming the culture of agile work, continuous innovation, and creativity across the entire organization… Connect with him on LinkedIn or join the conversation by following Planbox on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Rachel Audige
Rachel Audige is an Innovation Architect who helps organisations embed inventive thinking as well as a certified Systematic Inventive Thinking Facilitator, based in Melbourne.
Mick Simonelli
Mick Simonelli is an innovator with 20+ years of implementing change and positive disruption at USAA. As a military veteran, he held transformation roles in numerous military organizations; and as a business executive, he purposely hired vets to help launch numerous innovations as the Chief Innovation Officer for a Fortune 500 company. Mick currently serves as an innovation consultant and can be found at www.micksimonelli.com Follow @MickSimonelli
Mitch Ditkoff
Mitch Ditkoff is the Co-Founder and President of Idea Champions and the author of “Awake at the Wheel”, as well as the very popular Heart of Innovation blog.
Peter Cook
Peter Cook leads Human Dynamics and The Academy of Rock, providing Keynotes, Organisational Development and Coaching. He is the author of seven books on business leadership. His three passions are science, business and music, having led innovation teams for 18 years to develop life-saving drugs including the first treatments for AIDS and the development of Human Insulin. Peter is Music and Business editor at Innovation Excellence. You can follow him on twitter @Academyofrock.
Mukesh Gupta
Mukesh Gupta is Director of Customer Advocacy, SAP India Private Limited. He also served as Executive Liaison for the SAP User group in India, and as a Global Lead in Sales & Business Development. He blogs, and shares podcasts and videos, on his site rmukeshgupta.com
Urko Wood
Urko Wood helps clients of Reveal Growth find and capitalize on the best opportunities for innovation and growth in their markets. He is one of only a handful of people in North America who are expert practitioners in the breakthrough “jobs-to-be-done” (JTBD) innovation approach that has enabled over 400 of the Fortune 1000 to generate billions of dollars in new revenue and achieve new product success rates of over 80%.
Arlen Meyers
Arlen Meyers, MD, MBA is the President and CEO of the Society of Physician Entrepreneurs at www.sopenet.org

Ralph Christian Ohr
Dr. Ralph-Christian Ohr has extensive experience in product/innovation management for international technology-based companies. His particular interest is targeted at the intersection of organizational and human innovation capabilities. You can follow him on Twitter @Ralph_Ohr.

David Burkus
David Burkus is a best-selling author, a sought after speaker, and associate professor of leadership and innovation at Oral Roberts University. His newest book, Friend of a Friend, offers readers a new perspective on how to grow their networks and build key connections—one based on the science of human behavior, not rote networking advice.

Neil Sholay
Neil Sholay is re-shaping innovation and digital experiences as a Vice President of Digital Innovation for EMEA & JAPAC at Oracle. He leads a curious, multidisciplinary team of thinkers, Ideators, strategists, designers, developers, storytellers, rebels and proud geeks, who are reshaping Innovation and digital experiences. They bring new ideas & business models to life, using co-innovation and rapid prototyping.

If your favorite didn’t make the list, then next year try to rally more votes for them or convince them to increase the quality and quantity of their contributions.

Download PDF version of Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2020 list here:

My lists from the eight previous years have been tremendously popular:

Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2012
Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2013
Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2014
Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2015
Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2016
Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2017
Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2018
Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2019

Happy New Year everyone!

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Sustainable Change Leadership

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Driving Long-term Transformation

Sustainable Change Leadership

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, organizations face constant pressure to adapt, innovate, and drive sustainable change. While change is inevitable, the ability to lead transformations that have a long-term impact is the mark of exceptional leaders. Sustainable change leadership requires a holistic and forward-thinking approach, rooted in a deep understanding of the organization’s goals and values. This article explores the essence of sustainable change leadership and illustrates its effectiveness through two case study examples.

Case Study 1: Ford Motor Company – A Shift towards Sustainable Mobility

The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation to address the challenges of environmental sustainability. Ford Motor Company took a proactive stance by embracing sustainable change leadership to navigate this shift successfully. Recognizing the long-term viability of electric vehicles, Ford committed to becoming a leader in the field by investing $11 billion in electric vehicle (EV) production.

Ford’s CEO, Jim Farley, adopted a holistic approach to drive this transformation. By prioritizing sustainable mobility and integrating it into the company’s core values, he fostered a culture of innovation and personal responsibility. The change was not just about technology or manufacturing; it was a comprehensive shift that required the engagement of employees, suppliers, consumers, and even policymakers.

This sustainable change leadership approach not only helped Ford stay ahead of its competitors but also contributed to positive environmental impact. By 2030, Ford aims to have 40% of its global vehicle volume to be fully electric. This commitment to long-term transformation, driven by sustainable change leadership, positions Ford as a frontrunner in the sustainable mobility revolution.

Case Study 2: Unilever – Scaling Sustainability with Purpose-Driven Leadership

As a multinational consumer goods company, Unilever recognized the critical need to integrate sustainability throughout its operations. Under the leadership of CEO Alan Jope, Unilever adopted a purpose-driven approach to sustainable change leadership. By aligning the company’s purpose, “making sustainable living commonplace,” with its business strategy, Unilever transformed its operations to reduce its environmental footprint while simultaneously growing its business.

One aspect of Unilever’s sustainable change leadership is its commitment to reducing waste and enhancing recycling. The company launched initiatives like the “Less Plastic, More Fantastic” campaign, which aimed to help eliminate plastic waste and promote recycling. Through innovations such as recyclable packaging and ingredient sourcing, Unilever reduced its global plastic footprint by over 100,000 tons.

Unilever’s purpose-driven sustainable change leadership has not only improved its brand reputation but also boosted profitability. By insisting that sustainability is not a mere add-on but an integral part of its business strategy, Unilever has built customer loyalty and attracted environmentally conscious consumers. This case study exemplifies how sustainable change leadership can drive significant, long-term transformation while creating positive societal impact.

Conclusion

Sustainable change leadership is a vital quality for leaders who aim to make a lasting impact by driving transformation within their organizations. The case studies of Ford Motor Company and Unilever showcase the efficacy of sustainable change leadership in driving long-term transformation. By emphasizing sustainability as a core value and incorporating it into business practices, these organizations have not only adapted to emerging trends but have also set the standard for their respective industries. Consequently, sustainable change leadership acts as a catalyst for organizational growth, customer loyalty, and a more sustainable future.

Image credit: Pixabay

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Change Communication Strategies

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Effective Ways to Engage and Inspire Employees

Change Communication Strategies: Effective Ways to Engage and Inspire Employees

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, change has become the norm. Organizations constantly face the challenge of adapting to keep up with market demands and technological advancements. However, implementing change successfully requires more than just defining strategic objectives; it necessitates effective communication strategies that engage and inspire employees. This article explores two case study examples that highlight the importance of tailored communication approaches in facilitating successful change initiatives.

Case Study 1: Zappos’ Holacracy Implementation

Zappos, the renowned online shoe and clothing retailer, decided to adopt Holacracy, a self-management system that redistributes decision-making authority throughout an organization. Recognizing the potential resistance and confusion among employees during this major structural change, Zappos employed effective change communication strategies to engage and inspire their workforce.

Firstly, Zappos adopted a transparent approach to communication by sharing the rationale behind the change and its potential benefits. Jeff Weiner, CEO of Zappos, held numerous town hall meetings to address employees’ concerns and provide a platform for open dialogue. This facilitated a deeper understanding of the change’s purpose and ensured that employees felt heard and valued.

Secondly, Zappos utilized various mediums to communicate the change. They created informative videos, conducted webinars, and shared success stories from other organizations that had successfully implemented Holacracy. By utilizing a multichannel approach, Zappos ensured that employees received consistent and accessible information, increasing their comprehension and acceptance of the change.

The combination of transparent communication and a multichannel approach resulted in engaged and inspired employees at Zappos. By involving employees in the decision-making process and providing adequate support and information, Zappos successfully navigated the complexities of change and strengthened its workforce’s commitment to the new Holacracy system.

Case Study 2: Microsoft’s Cultural Transformation

Microsoft’s cultural transformation journey under CEO Satya Nadella serves as another compelling example of effective change communication strategies. Nadella aimed to shift the company’s culture from a slow-moving bureaucracy to a more agile, innovative, and growth-oriented organization. To achieve this, he implemented various communication strategies to engage and inspire Microsoft’s diverse workforce.

The first crucial step in Microsoft’s transformation journey was establishing a clear shared purpose. Nadella effectively communicated his vision of empowering every individual and organization to achieve more. By articulating a compelling purpose that resonated with employees’ values, Microsoft created a unifying narrative that inspired employees to embrace the cultural shift.

Next, Microsoft recognized the importance of continuous communication throughout the change process. Nadella participated in numerous internal events, global town halls, and leadership forums, actively engaging with employees and listening to their concerns. By consistently providing updates and seeking input, Microsoft fostered a culture of collaboration, transparency, and trust, crucial elements for successful change management.

Furthermore, Microsoft focused on building a learning culture and invested in employee development programs. They introduced new initiatives such as “OneWeek,” an immersive event where employees could explore the latest technologies and collaborate on innovative projects. This not only upskilled employees but also created a sense of excitement and possibility, reinforcing the cultural transformation.

By combining a compelling shared purpose, continuous communication, and investment in employee development, Microsoft successfully transformed its culture. The engagement and inspiration of its employees played a vital role in aligning the organization with its strategic objectives, fostering innovation, and ultimately driving success.

Conclusion

Change is an inevitable part of organizational growth, and effective communication strategies are essential for engaging and inspiring employees during these transitions. The case studies of Zappos and Microsoft demonstrate the power of tailored approaches to change communication, emphasizing transparency, multichannel communication, shared purpose, continuous updates, employee engagement, and development opportunities. By implementing such strategies, organizations can navigate change successfully, ensuring their employees embrace and thrive in the new reality.

Image credit: Pixabay

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Voting Closed – Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2020

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For more than a decade I’ve devoted myself to making innovation insights accessible for the greater good, because I truly believe that the better our organizations get at delivering value to their stakeholders the less waste of natural resources and human resources there will be.

As a result I am eternally grateful to all of you out there who take the time to create and share great innovation articles, presentations, white papers, and videos and to make a list of the Top 40 Innovation Bloggers available each year.

My lists from the eight previous years have been tremendously popular:

Business Strategy Innovation is now looking for the Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2020.

Do you, or does someone you know, write articles about innovation?

Or do you just have someone that you like to read that writes about innovation, or some of the important adjacencies – trends, consumer psychology, change, leadership, strategy, marketing, management, collaboration, or social media (as they relate to innovation)?

Well, Business Strategy Innovation is looking to recognize the Top 40 Innovation Bloggers and you helped us find them with your nominations. Now it is time to vote, and help us narrow things down to a list of the Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2020.

The deadline for submitting votes is January 7, 2021 at midnight GMT.

The ranking will be done by me with influence from votes and nominations. The quality and quantity of contributions by an author will be a BIG contributing factor (through the end of the voting period).

You can vote in any of these three ways (and each earns points for them, so please feel free to vote all three ways):

Sending us the name of the blogger by @reply on twitter to @innovate
Adding the name of the blogger as a comment to this article’s posting on Facebook
Adding the name of the blogger as a comment to this article’s posting on our Linkedin Page (Be sure and follow us)

The official Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2020 and the contest winners will then be announced here in early January 2021.

Here is who received nominations (in alphabetical order):

Adi Gaskell – @adigaskell
Alex Goryachev
Andy Heikkila – @AndyO_TheHammer
Arlen Meyers
Braden Kelley – @innovate
Chad McAllister – @ChadMcAllister
Chris Beswick
Dan Blacharski – @Dan_Blacharski
Daniel Burrus – @DanielBurrus
Daniel Lock
Dave Wendland
David Burkus
Douglas Ferguson
Drew Boyd – @DrewBoyd
Frank Mattes – @FrankMattes
Gregg Fraley – @greggfraley
Greg Satell – @Digitaltonto
Hugo de Sousa
Ian Ure
Janet Sernack – @JanetSernack
Jay Boolkin
Jeffrey Baumgartner – @creativejeffrey
Jeff Freedman – @SmallArmyAgency
Jeffrey Phillips – @ovoinnovation
Jorge Barba – @JorgeBarba
Julian Birkinshaw – @JBirkinshaw
Julie Anixter – @julieanixter
Kate Hammer – @Kate_Hammer
Kevin McFarthing – @InnovationFixer
Kevin Namaky – @knamaky
Kevin Popovic
Lou Killeffer – @LKilleffer
Mari Anixter- @MariAnixter
Maria Paula Oliveira – @mpaulaoliveira
Marty Zwilling – @StartupPro
Matthew E May – @MatthewEMay
Michael Graber – @SouthernGrowth
Mike Brown – @Brainzooming
Mike Shipulski – @MikeShipulski
Mukesh Gupta
Nick Partridge – @KnewNewNeu
Nicolas Bry – @NicoBry
Pamela Soin
Paul Hobcraft – @Paul4innovating
Paul Sloane – @paulsloane
Pete Foley – @foley_pete
Ralph Christian Ohr – @ralph_ohr
Richard Haasnoot – @Innovate2Grow
Robert B Tucker – @RobertBTucker
Rowan Gibson – @RowanGibson
Saul Kaplan – @skap5
Scott Anthony – @ScottDAnthony
Scott Bowden – @scottbowden51
Shelly Greenway – @ChiefDistiller
Soren Kaplan – @SorenKaplan
Stefan Lindegaard – @Lindegaard
Stephen Shapiro – @stephenshapiro
Steven Forth – @StevenForth
Tamara Kleinberg – @LaunchStreet
Tim Stroh
Tom Koulopoulos – @TKspeaks
Yoram Solomon – @yoram

We’re curious to see who you think is worth reading!

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