Innovation is Divergence (Part 1): The Art of Thinking Differently
Innovation is Divergence (Part 1): The Art of Thinking Differently
If innovation is a discipline, not just a eureka moment, then divergence is its lifeblood. It's about generating a multitude of ideas, exploring unconventional paths, and embracing the unknown.
Let me tell you a story about a clay pot teacher. The teacher divided his students into two groups. Group A was to focus on making the best clay pot, taking the traditional approach to perfection and making it work. Group B was to focus on creating as many clay pots as you can. This is the idea of innovation as divergence.
Who would have created the best clay pot? Group B wins the game because of the sheer number of things they tried.
At its core, innovation requires us to create multiple options. To be creative, to try, to fail, to learn and to create new ways of doing things.
As we discussed earlier on the importance of dissent in decision-making, we need a culture that enables us to explore options that are normally not on the table. Divergence creates the space for ideas that can be outside the norm and enable to think beyond the normal.
When we try to think of new ideas, our brains struggle if we put too many guardrails before we can even think. It is important to let the crazy ideas, the simple ones, the logical ones, the previously tried ones and the not for us ones. We need to put everything on the table.
By being able to create this space where we can put anything forward — we create a space to have a range of ideas from which we can pick a few, mash a few together or imagine an entirely new one.
Design thinking at its core is a series of divergence and convergence rhythms. Design provides a great way to create these options, which we can explore in the future.
In conclusion, innovation is not a solitary spark of genius, but a disciplined process that thrives on divergence. By embracing a culture that values exploration, experimentation, and diverse perspectives, we unlock the full potential of human creativity. Let us remember the lesson of the clay pot teacher: it's not about finding the perfect solution right away, but about creating a multitude of possibilities, learning from our failures, and ultimately shaping a future that is both innovative and impactful.
Interested in learning more about innovation? Let's connect! Feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn or reply to the newsletter.
"The new always begins with the individual who sees in the familiar a new possibility or a new use." - Peter Drucker
For readers eager to foster a culture of divergence in their own lives or organisations, consider these pointers:
Embrace the power of questions: Encourage open-ended inquiry and challenge assumptions.
Cultivate a safe space for ideas: Foster an environment where all ideas are welcome, regardless of how unconventional they may seem.
Celebrate failures as learning opportunities: Recognise that setbacks are an inevitable part of the creative process.
Encourage cross-pollination of ideas: Bring together people from diverse backgrounds and disciplines to spark new connections and insights.
Make time for divergent thinking: Dedicate time to brainstorming and exploring multiple options before converging on a solution.
By embracing divergence, we pave the way for groundbreaking innovations and create a more dynamic, resilient, and ultimately more fulfilling human experience.