Finding and Applying Serendipitous Innovations
0 comments | 1277 reads 
Innovation is all around us, and if you see it, observe and learn from it so that you can use the idea elsewhere. A classic example of serendipity or success after failure is the story of 3M Post-it notes. In 1974, Stephen Silver at 3M research laboratories was trying to develop a strong adhesive and instead created a new adhesive that was not too strong, could stick on all surfaces and be removed easily without causing damage or leaving residue. Not knowing what to make of this, it was four years later that his colleague Art Fry came up with the idea to use this “low tack” adhesive to attach a bookmark to his hymnal. He further developed the concept, and 3M launched what became known as Post-it notes nationwide.
Another example of a serendipitous innovation is the case of Mr. Goodyear when he accidently burned his experiment and created galvanized rubber used in tires. This discovery is often cited as one of history’s most celebrated “accidents”, although it took the inventor’s clever inference and steadfast perseverance to develop the product.
Look at failures or “Learning Experiences”, and look around you to see what innovative use or application can be used for your own competitive advantage and differentiation. On a recent trip I observed the following innovations - they are all around us. See what you can do with these creative new experiences to use or apply elsewhere:
- Instant welcome banner printers at the airport retailing for just $4.99
- DHL canal boats in Amsterdam used for picking up and delivering packages. At first glance, I thought it was a great method of advertising, but the boats are actually a more time efficient delivery vehicle through the Amsterdam canals than any delivery truck.
- Using the iPad and FaceTime to have your partner join you for dinner while traveling
- eTickets for trains (used to be paper only)
- A mobile version of the successful London Eye Ferris wheel as a temporary attraction
- Highway speeds set for 130km/hr normally and 110km/hr when wet
- Laptop LoJack for tracking missing or stolen laptops
The list of these types of crafty innovations goes on and on. More importantly, look around you and see how you should apply the ten types of innovation to your own ideas: Process, Delivery, Branding and Product.
When it comes to innovation, don’t get left behind and always remember - if you don’t do it, somebody else will. For more on the ten imperatives and tips for innovation, see “Robert’s Rules of Innovation: A 10-Step Program for Corporate Survival.”
Robert Brands
- About Robert Brands |
Connect:
- 1277 reads
0 comments »
Join the conversation!
MarketPlace
Boost Customer Satisfaction & Loyalty at SCORE 2013
[May 29-31, Boston] Customer experience management (CEM) strategy meets customer operations at SCORE Conference 2013. Topics include driving customer satisfaction and loyalty, employee engagement, customer retention, call center technology and big data analytics. CustomerThink members save $700 off the regular registration fee.
Digital vs. Human Banking Experiences: Can This Be a Happy Marriage?
[June 6] It's time for banking leaders to rethink how to nurture and grow customer relationships in an increasingly digital world. Get the results of a new study that revealed the CX practices of top performing banks. Learn how digital Innovations can enable more personal service.
[June 10-13, Chicago] If you are responsible for the results of your company’s website, social media, ecommerce, web intelligence, data strategy, audience research and/or measurement, then mark your calendar. Customerthink members save 15% off full conference passes with code CTKTO15.
[June 10-13, Chicago] PAW's program will feature over 40 sessions with case studies so you can witness how predictive analytics is applied at leading enterprises. Customerthink members save 15% off full conference passes with code CTKTO15.
Confirmit’s Community Conference ’13 – London and Las Vegas
[June 19-21, London; June 26-28, Las Vegas] Attending CCC ‘13 gives you an unrivaled opportunity to understand and address rapid industry changes and discover new techniques that can drive your business forward. Create a tailored agenda that explains how to overcome the challenges your business faces. Take advantage of excellent networking opportunities and face-to-face discussions with thought leaders.
Global Customer Experience Management (CEM) Certification Program
[Sept 19-20, Amsterdam; Sept 24-25, Sao Paulo; Nov 12-13, San Francisco] An internationally recognized program with proven track record of success - being run for 40 times in 17 cities with attendees from 58 countries, the program is developed based on the U.S. patent-pending Branded CEM Method which aims to drive customer loyalty and brand differentiation with quantifiable business results. Limited offer: USD300 early bird discount.
Customer Experience Certification
[Sept 24-26, London] If you’re developing a customer experience program or want to review your current approach, join other customer experience leaders for this intensive 2.5-day certification. Presented by Medallia, the global leader in customer experience management. Enter code ‘Cthink’ to save$300/£200.
Voice of Customer 2.0: Creating Change Your Customers and Employees Can Believe In
[Recorded April 25] Despite good intentions, in the majority of companies Voice of Customer programs contribute little to business success. Join us to learn the secrets to capitalize on Customer Experience feedback, so you can drive organization actions that will unlock profitable growth.
Get your event or resource listed in the MarketPlace, reaching 200,000 business leaders monthly.
For more information, contact
CustomerThink advertising sales.
Follow CustomerThink
The Future of Work - Please Give Your Input
CustomerThink is collaborating with Chess Media Group in a study about "The Future of Work" including the use of social/collaborative tools. Please take a few minutes to share your input. As thanks for your time, you'll receive a complimentary copy of the report.
Featured Resources
