Innovation and the Scientific Method

Most large organizations are managed systematically, but managers may have a hard time leading innovation since the approach requires different mental models and frameworks. One way to identify these is to adopt the oldest innovation framework in the world - the scientific method. This systematic, iterative, and empirical method of acquiring knowledge is where most big technological innovations have originated. Despite no clear consensus on the exact steps, most versions have been applied to business innovation, like Lean Startup, Design Thinking, and Growth Hacking. Innovation involves creating something new, which means there's often uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity, and limited information. This means that new management styles are needed that ask objective questions, accepts they don't have all the information, and employ an iterative, exploratory, and empirical approach. The scientific method is a learning process that is evidence-based and focused on solving problems. Leaders need to provide structure and guidance, set direction and goals, question assumptions, and remove obstacles while holding people accountable. Capital allocation for innovation requires dynamic allocation in small tranches to maintain focus on solving the next few problems and making real progress.