Brazil ranks 69th in the global innovation index, according to a study WIPO – World Intellectual Property Organization. This index, measured year after year, takes into account a series of requirements, but mainly the challenges faced by companies in implementing a flexible culture capable of changing according to market dynamics.
Analyzing the current corporate landscape, we have a true avalanche of technological solutions entering companies, businesses, and commercial relationships: management and business intelligence software; internet of things; mobile devices; cloud computing; customer service automation with chatbots; among many others.
It is for this reason that we have spoken so much about digital transformation, a movement that not only represents the intensive use of technologies in the organizational environment but also completely changes the way of doing business, especially when we are managing projects.
Why innovate in business?
Innovation isn't about creating, but rather about giving a different applicability to something already existing. For example: ten years ago, cell phones were capable of making calls and sending/receiving SMS. The innovation was having other services and applications added, like internet access.
Those who don't innovate are left behind in time, just like the industries of typewriters, cassette tapes, LPs, among many others. Those who didn't see the opportunity to innovate and started doing things differently, died out.
Project management is no different. Each initiative is a good pretext for you and your team to do something completely new. Instead of using bricks and mortar in construction, why not use recycled materials? The results can have a significant impact, both for the client and for end-users.
Innovation is this: serving humanity in a way that is increasingly aligned with the needs of society.
And how to create a culture of innovation?
We could spend days and days talking about how to create a culture of innovation in the company. But let's highlight the attitudes and behaviors that we consider most important in this strategic shift:
Structure your ideas in the form of projects
Whenever a new way of doing something in the company or a completely new idea is considered, it is very important to organize these ideas in a project format, where there is one person responsible for making the idea a reality, and several collaborators with their complementary responsibilities. The project establishes an action plan and deadlines to fulfill each of them. Without this organization, ideas die and do not materialize in the company, hindering the culture of innovation.
Give your team freedom
Yes, to innovate we need to think, criticize, try, and fail. If a team member has a somewhat “outside the box” idea, let them try to apply it. Who knows, you might become pioneers in a new strategy, formula, or applicability for a product or service?
Get support
Within a project, we must be aligned with what the client wants and needs, especially the project sponsor, who is the main stakeholder. In this regard, obtain their support so that you and your team have the necessary freedom to innovate.
See also: 5 mistakes you shouldn't make in project management
Work as a team
Of course, each team member has their responsibilities, but it's important that everyone can exchange ideas and experiences in order to find better ways to apply the knowledge created together.
Brainstorming sessions, focus groups, and mind maps are some of the tools that can be used for your team to work in an integrated way. Throughout the project development, consider using a Kanban board to keep everyone updated on each other's activities.
Track the execution of ideas
A good way to retain all the knowledge generated from innovation processes and experience exchanges is to have management software that facilitates the innovation process within the company.
applied and unapplied ideas, ongoing projects, prioritization of prototypes and tests, each person's participation in the creation of new solutions, among other information, can be stored by a Intelligent system that you are ready to be your business innovation center.
The culture of innovation doesn't form on its own; you have to stimulate it every single workday. Don't waste time – get your team producing, creating, and innovating!
