More on the 3M visit

More on the 3M visit

During a visit to 3M's customer innovation center, the author learned about the forward mapping process that the company uses to project technologies and their future uses. This process looks at the development and refinement of technologies well into the future and the possible products to be created or problems that can be solved. Using this process and other methodologies, 3M believes that breakthrough ideas and innovations can become much more predictable and frequent. The forward mapping capability led to the development of the first pico projector, an LCD projector about the same size as a mobile phone. However, the author also raises concerns about the company's focus on internal knowledge and insights uncoupled from customer and consumer needs, which can result in interesting but ultimately disappointing innovation.

View

More Innovation Resources:

How To Retain Employees Through Motivation

Employee engagement is crucial for retention but often difficult to measure. This article discusses how idea management platforms can improve employee engagement, as well as the importance of employee development and recognition.

View

What is Idea Management and Why is it Important?

Idea management is about setting up business processes that ensure all ideas are given a chance to flourish. This can be done digitally or analog.

View
16 Brainstorming Techniques for Boosting Innovation

16 Brainstorming Techniques for Boosting Innovation

Effective brainstorming can improve group collaboration, and there are various techniques to try. These techniques include figure storming, brainwriting, rapid ideation, starbursting, and more.

View