WHAT DRIVES INNOVATION?

They say “there is nothing new under the sun,” however, innovators world over develop new products, companies release new products every so often. In context, there really is nothing new under the sun, just a modification or a new way of doing things since the need for products and services remains fairly constant but trends change.

Take for example Kenya, the largest telecommunication company and the largest bank in regard to market share can be credited as the most innovative companies we have. Safaricom and Equity hold a sizable bank share in their domains of operation and are constantly expanding and getting innovative to retain the status quo and get more customers.

 

If you are an aspiring innovator or entrepreneur, you need to get innovative by design. Remember, the need you will address has always been there, hence you need to address it in  a unique way.

 

So, what drives innovation? The most basic levels here;

  •         The individual – the founder has to be self driven.
  •         The team – the founder imparts his vision to his/her team.
  •         The enterprise – the processes at the enterprise must work towards achieving set goals.

These 3 levels form the foundations where you can start innovating. The innovative and creative mind must come at the individual level; the building block of innovation. The individual share their idea with a team that plans a course of action internally and how to achieve set targets. This team should comprise of multidisciplinary skilled individuals. Once the team conforms towards a common goal, the enterprise level comes to play. Successful enterprises have a tendency of resisting change hence some policies may help at this level.

 

We encourage you to be innovative and share your ideas with a trusted team. Your team will push you to greater heights.

 

You can enroll at the Nairobi Design Thinking School to learn more about sustainable innovation or visit our offices at the University of Nairobi, Chiromo Campus.  We have developed a short course just for you. Follow this link for more information.

 

Leave A Comment