Adapt or Die? The Importance of Continuous Innovation Management

We all know that the only way to survive in our given industries is to change, to innovate. Innovation needs to be a continuous process. Changing one thing and then assuming that one innovation will carry you through will just leave you lagging behind the competition. These changes don’t always need to be major, but to discount their importance is often to invite disaster.

A huge part of continuous innovation management is encouraging innovation within an organization – so how do you accomplish this task?

– Opportunity – Remember, ideas, for the most part, bubble up – they are not the sole responsibility of the upper echelons. Give everyone the chance to contribute to, comment on, and play a part in innovation management, from development through to implementation. Just because a manager manages the daily tasks, that doesn’t mean that they recognize where improvements can be made.

– Transparency – If an employee can’t see the importance of innovation, or recognize their input or ideas as valuable to their company, there is not much incentive to contribute. When it comes to innovation, communicating with your team in a way that ensures all members are aware of what is happening within the organization, is crucial.

– Recognition – Give credit where credit is due. Showing an innovator that their ideas are appreciated helps to motivate. It can also help lead to the cultivation of new ideas.

– Save and Revisit – Never throw ideas away – keep them, and make sure that the employee who presented them is aware that you are not just tossing them. Just because something may not be relevant or applicable now doesn’t mean that it won’t be useful in the future.

Development is only part of the innovation equation. Once a change has been implemented, innovation management means ensuring the entire team is on board and that changes are being enacted properly. Ironing out any unforeseen issues is also crucial to this process. Keeping on top of the changes also helps to ensure that innovation continues.

To remain competitive, continuous innovation management is essential, no matter your industry. Keep abreast of change and make sure that your employees are well-informed as well.

For more on continuous innovation management and tips on how to get everyone onboard, contact Innovators Alliance today by calling 1-905-332-0340.