Innovation Activity: balance is poised for change

The emergence of digital technologies like cloud computing, industrial internet, analytics, and big data is changing the way we approach innovation. These technologies offer ways to balance the tension between rational and random thinking, which is necessary for innovation success. While technology is more often searching for patterns and coherence, it can also accommodate randomness by offering multiple scenarios. Big data requires analysis but also offers the promise of artificial intelligence combining with human intelligence in new ways that can deliver higher-scale and more innovative business outcomes. However, the innovation process must change to accommodate these digital transformations. The human intervention and manual input in the innovation pipeline today must be addressed, particularly when it comes to managing the vast amounts of data generated. Finally, bold leadership is called for to guide organizational change in delivering new business models that capitalize on the insights coming from a more digitally connected front end.