When it comes to innovation, doing new “stuff” with uncertain outcomes scares many.

It’s in our DNA. Hyper-vigilance enabled mankind to survive while a small percentage of wackos generated the innovations that have cumulatively lifted all of us into today’s first-world economies.

Industry best-practices pursue efficient economic activity, which is not “innovative” economic activity that will grow sales, profits or all stakeholders’ benefits faster. Fine-tuning the past leads to fading financial returns and eventual death.  Customers, suppliers and employees who are more ambitious and progressive will choose to work with more innovative, rewarding distributors. The innovative rich get richer.

If “innovation” sounds too abstract, big and scary, then relax.  Innovation comes in many speeds, ranging from common adaptations done by everyone to disruptive supply-chain innovations like Wal-mart’s cross-docking, quick response or Amazon’s 2-Hour, Prime delivery.

Continue reading 12. Increase Innovation With A Curiosity Rule and Tool →