Innovation

Innovation is fueled by the need for change and often thwarted by conflicting objectives.  The key to successful innovation is communicating and selling the need for change in terms that each stakeholder understands.  

Innovations fail when the users are not part of the process.

An example of an innovation that is failing are unused or misused personal computers.  I was recently in a managers office where I was given permission to use the computer.  I discovered that the manager had never used any of the business software (word processor, spreadsheet, or graphics).  I liken this to a carpenter who has a nail gun but uses his shoe for a hammer, instead.  

I have listed below a few significant innovations that had good potential benefits.  There is a story behind each of them that I can share.

Capabilities

• Spreadsheet Dashboards

• Water Treatment

• Process Neutralization Tank

• Bore Scope

• Thermal Imaging

• Ultrasonic and Vibration Analysis

• Variable Frequency/Speed Drives

• Lighting Retrofits

• Motor Retrofits

• Conversion to Laptop Computers

• Thermal Storage

• Cooling Tower Upgrades

• TCP/IP Backbone for Building Automation Systems

• PC Based Cost Accounting/Auditing

• Process Improvement Teams

• Low Temperature Cooling Systems

• Desiccant Cooling/Dehumidification

• Hose Bibs

• DI Water Distribution System

• Redundant Sewage Lift/Sump Pumps

• Computerized Time Cards