Why Innovation Needs Its Own Language

The misuse and overuse of the term "innovation" has caused it to lose its meaning, leading to the need for a new innovation language. This language should define words and phrases used to communicate the rationale for innovation, create the context for innovation, and define the tools, methods, and outcomes of innovation. The current language limits and narrows the scope of innovation and fails to provide a shared meaning among teams. Furthermore, in business, much of the discussion about innovation is for show, which leads to cynicism and doubt. Words become filler or placeholders, and the ideas lose their original meanings. To overcome these challenges, organizations need to address the lack of shared meaning, systemic context, clear linkage to strategy or goals, and the need for urgent communication. If the language is poor, the resulting products and services will likely be poor as well.