Category Archives: Leadership

Picking a Problem Worth Solving From a Sea of Problems

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Picking a Problem Worth Solving From a Sea of Problems

In the current environment, human-centric challenges abound, but you can’t focus on solving all of them. Many organizations complain not about having too few ideas, but about having TOO MANY IDEAS. Human-centered design principles can be incredibly helpful to assist with empathy, problem framing, problem re-framing, solutioning, prototyping, hypothesis testing, experimentation, and iteration. All of which can help you narrow down onto a few problems worth solving.

Preparing to Solve the Right Problem

I’d like to share with you here the recording of the keynote I delivered on 9 June 2020 at the virtual ISPIM Innovation Conference titled Picking a Problem Worth Solving From a Sea of Problems:

Because there are not a lot of great tools for Human-Centered Design (aka Design Thinking) I’ve been putting together some tools to make the approach a little more intuitive. I’ve either built, or am in the process of building tools for:

  1. Insight Generation (under construction)
  2. Science Fiction and Futurism (completed)
  3. Problem Finding Canvas (available)
  4. Problem Prioritization (completed)
  5. Problem Deep Dive (completed)

Some of my human-centered design approaches are covered in the virtual keynote video above, and below you’ll find a quick introduction to a simple but powerful tool I created for picking a search area and a challenge to design against:

Inexpensive Tool for Finding Problems Worth Solving

Problem Finding CanvasThe Problem Finding Canvas is intended to help you think deeply about the different areas to explore that you could address, the challenges that make up each of those areas to explore and the opportunities for innovation or improvement that exist in solving those challenges.

Key Focus Areas

The middle of the canvas is designed to help clients uncover more than just the obvious challenges, so be sure and dig deep into the details of the:

  • Users
  • Outcomes
  • Tools
  • Actions/Interactions

Desired Outcome

The Problem Finding Canvas should help you investigate a handful of areas to explore, choose the one most important to you, extract all of the potential challenges and opportunities and choose one to prioritize.

What’s Missing?

I’m in the middle of packaging together the other tools mentioned above into a suite of Human-Centered Design tools for your Design Thinking efforts and a broader Human-Centered Innovation Toolkit™.

What tools do you wish you had for doing design thinking?

What tools are missing from your innovation toolbox that you wish you had?

Please leave a reply in the comments and maybe I can build them for you!


Accelerate your change and transformation success

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Leadership in Change Planning

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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.

Visual Project Charter™

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:

  1. Download the Visual Project Charter™ from this web site

    2. (both JPEG and PDF)

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

  3. 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)

  4. Resize the JPEG image after it is added

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

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

  7. 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

  8. Have fun!

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

Charting ChangeI’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:

  1. Charting Change
  2. Stoking Your Innovation Bonfire

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Innovative Employee Recognition Programs

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Going Beyond Traditional Rewards

Innovative Employee Recognition Programs

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

Employee recognition is a key component of fostering a positive workplace culture and driving employee engagement. While traditional rewards such as bonuses and gift cards are commonly used to recognize and reward employees, there is a growing trend towards more innovative and personalized recognition programs.

Companies that are truly invested in recognizing the hard work and dedication of their employees understand the importance of going beyond traditional rewards to create meaningful and lasting experiences that not only motivate employees but also foster a sense of belonging and appreciation. In this thought leadership article, we will explore two case studies of companies that have implemented innovative employee recognition programs with great success.

Case Study 1: Google’s Peer Bonus Program

Google is known for its innovative workplace culture, and its peer bonus program is no exception. Instead of relying solely on monetary rewards, Google gives employees the opportunity to nominate their peers for a bonus based on their contributions to the company. This program not only recognizes employees for their hard work but also fosters a culture of appreciation and collaboration.

Employees at Google have the opportunity to nominate their peers for a bonus of up to $1,000, which is awarded based on the impact of their work on the company. This not only incentivizes employees to go above and beyond in their roles but also creates a sense of camaraderie and support among team members.

Case Study 2: Salesforce’s Thank-You Economy

Salesforce, a leading customer relationship management company, takes employee recognition to the next level with its Thank-You Economy program. This program is centered around the idea of gratitude and appreciation, with employees encouraged to express their thanks to their colleagues in meaningful ways.

One unique aspect of Salesforce’s Thank-You Economy program is its emphasis on peer-to-peer recognition. Employees are given a platform to publicly recognize their colleagues for their contributions, whether it be a job well done on a project or going above and beyond to help a team member. This not only boosts employee morale but also reinforces a culture of appreciation and support within the company.

Conclusion

Traditional rewards are no longer enough to truly recognize and motivate employees. Companies that are committed to fostering a positive workplace culture and driving employee engagement are turning to innovative recognition programs that go beyond monetary rewards to create meaningful and personalized experiences for their employees. By implementing programs such as Google’s peer bonus program and Salesforce’s Thank-You Economy, companies can create a culture of appreciation and support that not only motivates employees but also strengthens team dynamics and drives organizational success.

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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Start 2021 with a Free Innovation Audit

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Free Innovation AuditNow in Portuguese or English

Are you struggling to identify why your innovation efforts are failing to achieve their desired results?

Identify your areas of opportunity with my FREE 50 question audit in one of two ways:

1. Get immediate feedback with the online version

2. Download the Microsoft Excel worksheet (in English or Portuguese)

  • have people across your organization fill it out and collate your results
  • OR purchase the Innovation Diagnostic Service for my help setting up a study and analyzing results

The innovation audit is most powerful when answers are gathered at multiple levels of the organization across several groups and several sites.

I created my FREE Innovation Audit for buyers of my first book Stoking Your Innovation Bonfire, but it’s now available for global use.

NOTE: If you’d like to translate the audit into another language, please contact me.

In addition to helping you identify areas of potential improvement and the strengths/weaknesses of your innovation culture, it will also help you see your level of innovation maturity.

Innovation Maturity Model

Image adapted from the book Innovation Tournaments by Christian Terwiesch and Karl Ulrich

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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.

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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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.

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: Pixabay

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Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2020

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Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2020After 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:

  1. 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.
  2. Tom Koulopoulos
    Thomas KoulopoulosTom 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.
  3. Braden Kelley
    Braden KelleyBraden 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).
  4. Greg Satell
    Greg SatellGreg 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.
  5. Mike Shipulski
    Mike ShipulskiMike 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.
  6. Phil McKinney
    Phil McKinneyPhil 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.

  7. Soren Kaplan
    Soren KaplanSoren 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.
  8. Eric Eskey
    Eric EskeyEric 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.

  9. Scott Anthony
    Scott AnthonyScott 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.

  10. Kate Hammer
    Kate HammerKate 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.

    11. Build a common language of innovation on your team

  11. Michael Graber
    Michael GraberMichael 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.
  12. Nicolas Bry
    Nicolas BryNicolas 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.
  13. Paul Sloane
    Paul SloanePaul 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.
  14. Yoram Solomon
    Four Rules to Snap Judge a New VentureDr. 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.
  15. 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
  16. Jesse Nieminen
    Jesse NieminenJesse 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.
  17. Robert B Tucker
    Robert TuckerRobert 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.
  18. Shelly Greenway
    Shelly GreenwayShelly 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
  19. John Bessant
    John BessantJohn 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
  20. Shilpi Kumar
    Shilpi KumarShilpi 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.

    21. Accelerate your change and transformation success

  21. Francesco Pagano
    Franceso PaganoFrancesco 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.
  22. Dimis Michaelides
    Simis MichaelidesDimis 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.
  23. Greg Heist
    Greg HeistGreg Heist is the Chief Innovation Officer at Gongos, a decision intelligence company.

  24. Gijs van Wulfen
    Gijs van WulfenGijs 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

  25. Shawn Nason
    Shawn NasonShawn 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.

  26. 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
  27. Tamara Ghandour
    Tamara GhandourTamara 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.
  28. John Carter
    John CarterJohn 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.
  29. Jeff Rubingh
    Jeff RubinghJeff 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.
  30. Ludwig Melik
    Ludwig MelikLudwig 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.

    Get the Change Planning Toolkit

  31. Rachel Audige
    Rachel AudigeRachel Audige is an Innovation Architect who helps organisations embed inventive thinking as well as a certified Systematic Inventive Thinking Facilitator, based in Melbourne.

  32. Mick Simonelli
    Mick SimonelliMick 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

  33. 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.

  34. Peter Cook
    Peter CookPeter 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.

  35. Mukesh Gupta
    Mukesh GuptaMukesh 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

  36. Urko Wood
    Urko WoodUrko 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%.

  37. Arlen Meyers
    Arlen MyersArlen Meyers, MD, MBA is the President and CEO of the Society of Physician Entrepreneurs at www.sopenet.org
  38. Ralph Christian Ohr
    Ralph OhrDr. 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.
  39. David Burkus
    David BurkusDavid 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.
  40. Neil Sholay
    Neil SholayNeil 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:

Top 40 Innovation Bloggers of 2020 PDF

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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Empowering Employees: Engaging and Motivating Change Agents

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Empowering Employees: Engaging and Motivating Change Agents

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

In today’s rapidly evolving business environment, organizations need to be agile and innovative to stay competitive. To drive meaningful change and foster a culture of continuous improvement, organizations must empower their employees to become change agents. By engaging and motivating employees, businesses can harness their expertise, passion, and creativity to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. In this thought leadership article, we will explore two inspiring case studies that highlight the power of empowering employees as change agents.

Case Study 1: Adobe’s Kickbox Program

Adobe, a global software company, developed an innovative employee empowerment program called Kickbox. Recognizing the need to unleash entrepreneurial spirit and accelerate innovation among its workforce, Adobe introduced this program to encourage employees to pursue their ideas and passions.

Through Kickbox, employees receive a literal red box containing various resources, including a prepaid credit card, a guidebook, and other tools they need to experiment with their ideas. The employees are then encouraged to take risks, explore new concepts, and validate them by seeking feedback and support from their colleagues and mentors.

One standout success story from the Kickbox program is the creation of Project Mighty, a digital pen and ruler device that seamlessly integrates with Adobe’s software. An Adobe employee, inspired by Kickbox’s encouragement and resources, developed the concept for Project Mighty. This empowering initiative enabled employees like him to contribute their ideas and bring them to fruition, leading to the development of an innovative product that enhanced Adobe’s offerings.

The Kickbox program exemplifies the power of giving employees the freedom, resources, and support to pursue their ideas and passions. By fostering a culture of innovation and providing employees with the tools they need, organizations can empower individuals to become change agents capable of driving significant transformation.

Case Study 2: Patagonia’s Environmental Activism

Patagonia, an outdoor clothing and equipment company, demonstrates how a strong sense of purpose and employee engagement can propel an organization to become a force for positive change. Patagonia has long been dedicated to environmental activism and sustainability. Central to their ethos is the belief that employees should not only be passionate about their work but also contribute to a higher cause.

To empower employees as change agents, Patagonia implemented various initiatives. One such initiative is the “Earth Tax,” where the company donates 1% of its sales to grassroots environmental organizations. This program allows employees to actively participate in decision-making by recommending and voting on organizations to receive the donations, fostering a sense of ownership and advocacy.

Furthermore, Patagonia also offers its employees the opportunity to participate in environmental internships. Employees can take paid leave to work with environmental organizations and learn firsthand about the challenges and solutions related to sustainability. This program not only empowers employees to become environmental change agents but also enriches their personal and professional growth.

Through its commitment to environmental activism and employee engagement, Patagonia has not only built a successful business but also spearheaded changes within the industry. By empowering employees to actively contribute to a bigger purpose, organizations can create a workforce that is passionately dedicated to making a positive impact.

Conclusion

The case studies of Adobe’s Kickbox program and Patagonia’s environmental activism demonstrate the power of empowering employees as change agents. By providing the necessary resources, support, and a sense of purpose, organizations can unlock the untapped potential within their workforce. Whether through innovation initiatives like Kickbox or commitment to a higher cause like environmental activism, engaging and motivating employees fosters a culture of continuous improvement and strategic transformation.

In today’s dynamic and competitive marketplace, organizations that invest in empowering their employees as change agents gain a significant advantage. By nurturing creativity, fostering ownership, and aligning employees’ passions with organizational goals, businesses can harness the collective strength of their workforce to drive innovation and elevate their industry position. When organizations recognize the power of their employees as change agents, they can truly thrive and make a lasting impact on both their employees and the world around them.

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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Change Resistance: Addressing Common Barriers and Overcoming Employee Pushback

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Change Resistance: Addressing Common Barriers and Overcoming Employee Pushback

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

In today’s dynamically evolving business landscape, organizations are faced with a constant need to adapt and embrace change in order to stay competitive. However, change initiatives often encounter resistance from employees, leading to delays and potentially derailing the desired outcomes. Understanding the common barriers to change and implementing strategies to address them is essential for effective change management. This article explores two case studies that illustrate how organizations successfully overcame employee pushback during transformative change endeavors.

Case Study 1: Implementing a New Performance Management System

Company X, a global technology firm, decided to revamp its performance management system to align with their updated business objectives. The organization aimed to encourage a culture of regular feedback and continuous improvement. Recognizing the resistance that the change might evoke, the management team took proactive steps to minimize employee pushback.

Firstly, the company ensured transparency and clarity by communicating the rationale behind the change. They conducted workshops and town hall meetings to explain how the new system would help employees grow professionally and benefit the organization as a whole. This transparent approach enabled employees to grasp the purpose of the change, which reduced uncertainty and resistance.

Secondly, they involved employees in the process by inviting feedback and suggestions. By incorporating their input, the organization demonstrated a genuine commitment to engaging employees and valuing their opinions. This inclusive strategy not only addressed employee concerns but also fostered a sense of ownership among employees, leading to higher acceptance of the new system.

Lastly, the company offered comprehensive training programs to help employees adapt to the change successfully. By providing resources and support, the organization minimized the fear of the unknown and empowered employees to embrace the new performance management system confidently. Regular check-ins and support forums were also established to provide ongoing assistance.

The combined efforts resulted in a smooth transition with minimal resistance. Employees gradually recognized the benefits of the new system, such as increased collaboration and individual growth opportunities. The successful implementation demonstrated that addressing common barriers and involving employees can drive positive change outcomes.

Case Study 2: Shifting to Remote Work during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Organization Y, a mid-sized consulting firm, faced the daunting challenge of transitioning its workforce to remote work amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. While the magnitude of the global crisis was beyond anyone’s control, the management team anticipated the potential resistance from employees during such a sudden transformation.

To overcome employee pushback, the company took proactive measures to support its employees’ transition to remote work. The first step was to ensure open and transparent communication channels. Frequent virtual meetings were conducted to address concerns, provide updates, and clarify expectations. This continuous dialogue improved employee morale and reduced anxiety about the uncertainties associated with remote work.

Understanding that remote work would alter the dynamics of collaboration, the organization invested in collaborative tools and technologies. Platforms like Microsoft Teams and Zoom were introduced to facilitate seamless virtual communication, ensuring effective teamwork and maintaining a sense of connection among employees.

To combat the potential feelings of isolation, the company also organized virtual team-building events, such as online happy hours and game nights. These activities helped foster a sense of camaraderie and provided an emotional support system during a challenging time.

Through these efforts, Organization Y successfully minimized employee resistance and maintained productivity during the transition to remote work. The crisis ultimately pushed the organization to adopt more flexible work practices, resulting in increased employee satisfaction and reduced operational costs.

Conclusion

Change resistance is an inevitable component of any transformative journey, but it does not have to hinder progress. By acknowledging common barriers, understanding employee concerns, and implementing strategies like transparent communication, employee involvement, and ongoing support, organizations can successfully overcome pushback. The case studies of Company X and Organization Y demonstrate that addressing resistance can lead to positive change outcomes and foster a resilient organizational culture capable of embracing future transformations.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Braden Kelley’s Problem Finding Canvas can be a super useful starting point for doing design thinking or human-centered design.

“The Problem Finding Canvas should help you investigate a handful of areas to explore, choose the one most important to you, extract all of the potential challenges and opportunities and choose one to prioritize.”

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