Too fast.
Mastering the art of acceleration means knowing how (and when) to change the speed and direction of the innovation process.
Borrowing from the world of physics, acceleration is the name we give to any process where the velocity changes. Since velocity means speed with a direction, leaders can accelerate innovation in one of three ways: by speeding up, by slowing down, or by changing direction. (Inspired by Khan Academy, n.d.)
Here are eight strategies to purposefully slow down the process to make sure innovation efforts and projects are on (the right) track:
Uncover long-term opportunities for industry and market disruption (rather than ‘just’ chasing short-term value creation)
Incorporate more inputs, perspectives, and voices to the process (rather than jumping to conclusions and making rash decisions)
Re-analyze and re-synthesize the research data multiple times to uncover insights that are truly actionable (rather than settling for ‘good enough’)
Use lateral thinking to systematically explore the problem and solution spaces (rather than settling for the ‘first best’ problem statement or idea)
Insert ample opportunities for experimentation, prototyping, and stakeholder feedback into the process
Invest more time in building relationships and commitment with project stakeholders throughout the process
Actively promote, assess, and improve the emotional, mental, and physical health of leaders and teams
Identify strategic opportunities to stop, reflect, learn, and adapt throughout the process
