Protecting Innovation

Abstract

Humans have been innovating, albeit slowly at first, since at least 3.3 million years ago, when hominids first created crude stone tools. Admittedly, these innovations would be considered simple today, with a rock (called a core) being smashed into another rock to create sharp edges. Some 700,000 years later, humans refined this technique by holding the core in one hand and striking it with a rock held in the other hand, which let the tool maker have more control when making sharp objects. Today, there would be no patience for a 700,000-year innovation project plan, with innovations seemingly coming fast and furious in the sciences, technology, and other areas of discovery. In this chapter, we will cover the importance of innovation to the vital organization, and how to cultivate innovation at your company.