Catch-up Innovation

By Jennifer Goddard | October 13, 2008

BNET Australia Contributors

Aussie Rules

Biography

BNET Australia Contributors

BNET Australia Contributors
Phil Dobbie has a wealth of radio and business experience. In his BTalk Australia podcast, he provides a lively and insightful view on business issues.
Brian Haverty is editorial director for CBS Interactive Australia and is responsible for the company's BNET and ZDNet Australia sites.
Robert Gerrish is a coach, author and professional speaker and the founder of Flying Solo, an Australian online community for solo business owners.
Melissa Lourenco is the HR manager for CBS Interactive in Australia.
Chris Golis is the author of The Humm Handbook: Lifting Your Level of Emotional Intelligence. He runs seminars and workshops on EQ.
Suzi Dafnis is Community Director of the Australian Businesswomen's Network.
Yvonne Adele helps organisations build a culture of ideas by teaching people at all levels to access their untapped creative thinking skills.

Innovation is normally classed as incremental or radical, new to the world and much has been written about them. While driving through the streets of Abu Dhabi today, I couldn’t help but wonder how people cope when innovation is thrust upon them.

Abu Dhabi, the capital of United Arab Emirates, has undergone tremendous change since the relatively recent discovery of oil and, in many areas, has had to play catch-up innovation.

One of the interesting challenges for countries and companies around the world is how to keep hold of your culture while embracing new ways and technologies.

Another is do you develop knowledge internally or import expertise? In Abu Dhabi, 70 percent of the population are expatriates, bringing in knowledge, expertise and experience.

What can you do to help your organisation catch-up on innovation?

  • Conduct training in developing creativity and innovation
  • Hire consultants to diagnose, advise and support innovation initiatives
  • Employ a Chief Innovation Officer
  • Look for opportunities for joint ventures or collaboration

What else has worked in your experience?

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