Micro-innovations: Incremental Process Improvements

Abstract

Micro-innovations are ideas that squeeze out efficiencies from existing processes. The approach philosophy is to reduce variability of a process so as to produce the same results every time. The outcome is a procedure or process that minimizes waste and defects while maximizes output. Micro-innovations require deep knowledge and expertise in a field. Whereas generalists need to know how things connect, a subject matter expert needs to be intimately familiar with the details and how processes can be improved. These experts can implement continuous improvement processes, an incremental approach to making change. As an energy strategist, one needs to continuously identify, reduce, and eliminate energy and carbon waste across an organization.