How do you test your leadership insights?
“Innovation is seeing what everybody has seen and thinking what nobody has thought.” ~ Dr. Albert, Szent- Györgyi
Tests are the best way to learn about existing and new critical assumptions. And when it comes to innovations, you’ll know whether your idea works only after actual implementation. As I remind my coaching clients, sharing and feedback are a critical part of this stage. Fortunately, it’s easier now than ever to get prototypes made and reviewed. As 3-D printing becomes widely available and affordable, this might become even easier and faster.
After test completion, analyze the results. Review your framework and make adjustments based on your learning. Re-test.
Start with a pilot project to minimize resources and maximize potential. Document everything, and remain open for feedback, new information, and adjustments. Remember that a balance between minimizing performance errors and maximizing the flow of ideas (and opportunities for improvement) will improve insights. If questions arise that can’t be answered, be honest.
Track information that can be used in training, marketing, and reporting. Prepare presentations for executives. Your presentation style and contents will influence your project’s acceptance or rejection, so be meticulous. Lead with “why”, and link to values, mission, and purpose. If necessary, seek help from presentation experts to ensure success.
And Remember…
Success is never guaranteed, no matter how hard you push or market your insights and innovations. Even improved innovations require resilience and persistence. As Thomas Edison said, “Genius is one percent inspiration and 99 percent perspiration.” His greatest creation may have been his invention factory.
It’s rather extraordinary when you think about it. Edison’s lab was the world’s first R&D facility, generating more than 400 patents. Rather than focusing on one invention, one field of expertise, or one market, Edison created a setting that enabled his inventors to move easily in and out of separate pools of knowledge, to keep learning new ideas, and to use old ideas in novel situations. Their insights improved innovation.
What do you think? How do you test your leadership insights? I’d love to hear from you. You can call me at 561-582-6060, let’s talk. And as always, I can be reached here, or on LinkedIn.
