Innovation Culture! What If This Term is a Trap?

Don’t fall for the “innovation culture” trap. Here’s the reality and what you can do about it.

In any large organization, definitions of innovation are as varied as the people. Without a common language or understanding, the term often breeds confusion. Trying to instill an 'innovation culture' under these conditions is as misguided as promoting a 'supply chain culture' or a 'finance culture.'

Look to the corporate culture itself instead. It’s driven by two main elements:

Leadership Principles: You get what you ask for and what you reward. These are shaped by current executives and have immediate impact.

Corporate Values: Reflecting both history and future, these values can be a mix of the authentic and the aspirational. While some values like speed and collaboration can fuel innovation, others like perfection and excellence might hinder it.

The key is to align and work on leadership principles and corporate values that positively affect your innovation and transformation efforts.

It’s hard work with less magic and no silver bullets, but it’s the only way to foster genuine, sustainable innovation in your organization.