A Definition of Innovation Trauma
| By: James A Gardner Innovation trauma occurs whenever an organization tries to do something new and fails so badly at it that everyone decides the only safe course for the future is a return to business as usual. The result is organizations stagnate because they are so fearful they'll repeat their previous errors. Signs of innovation trauma include unwillingness to invest outside existing business lines, disbelief that a company can be innovative, and skepticism that delivery capability is up to the task of doing new things. Sun Micrososystems are an excellent example of a company that has suffered innovation trauma. Sun created an innovative new product it called "SunRay". Essentially, it was a network computer that promised to reduce significantly the costs of big corporate IT. It would be simpler, easier to use, and much more flexible than any available alternative. When SunRay eventually shipped it did none of these things. But customers had already made plans based on future promises from the company, and they turned on their account managers. Feeling the pain directly in the pocket, the salespeople of Sun demanded that from then on they be given evidence that products were fit for purpose. They insisted that they'd not be embarrassed in front of their customers again by "innovation", and Sun was hamstrung for years afterward. No matter if there are signs of innovation trauma or not, it is almost always the case that employees have a hard time believing that innovation can create decent returns predictably. More often than not they have to be shown it is possible to do so. About the Author: Innovation Trauma is easily missed using the tools of Innovation Management. James Gardner's free online innovation book has advice that will help you miss this and other pitfalls in your innovation effort. Related Articles The Truth About How To Achieve Your Goals Tips For Overcoming Panic Attacks Fast Goal Setting Techniques You Can Use To Stop Smoking Hassle Reduction for Healthy Aging Getting Clear on Your Fear The Simplest Things That You Can Do To Fight Stress Goal Achieving Success Tips Coaching Skill Improving You Business with New Coaching Methods Free Full Moon Love Spells To Get Your Lost Love Back To Your Life Once Again Mother Of The Girl Scouts Juliette Gordon Low Birthed The Organization In Great Pain Personal Development Coaching Guidelines Time Management System During High School How To Utilize A Closet Organizer In Your Kid s Closet Choosing A Career With Bipolar Disorder A Great Learning Experience With Imindmap Various Tips On How To Enjoy Success |