Understanding innovation – the W L Gore way.
The writer reflects on the innovative culture of W. L. Gore, a global company known for producing Gore-Tex fabrics, as an exemplar for all organizations seeking to integrate innovation holistically. The company values individual freedom and self-managed teams, promoting information-sharing and peer review, and focuses on best-in-class concepts to produce unique benefits and sustainable advantages. The author praises Gore's clear beliefs and guiding principles, including belief in the individual, small teams, long-term planning, and action, and encourages organizations to follow Gore's example of integrating innovation into all aspects of their operations.