an artist s illustration of artificial intelligence ai this image depicts how ai could adapt to an infinite amount of uses it was created by nidia dias as part of the visualising ai pr

Innovation requires problem definition, ideation, execution

This article was based on the interview with Tanvir Khan of NTT Data by Greg Kihlström, Digital Transformation keynote speaker for The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström podcast. Listen to the original episode here:

Innovation is a crucial aspect of driving growth and success in any organization and requires problem definition, ideation, and execution. These three steps are essential in the process of bringing new ideas to life and creating solutions that drive value for businesses.

The first step in the innovation process is problem definition. It is important to clearly define the problem that needs to be solved and ensure that it is a problem worth solving. By understanding the root cause of the problem and its impact on the organization, innovators can focus their efforts on developing solutions that address the underlying issues effectively.

The next step in the innovation process is ideation. This involves brainstorming and coming up with creative solutions to solve the defined problem. It is important to think outside the box and explore different possibilities to find the best way to address the problem at hand. By encouraging collaboration and diversity of thought, organizations can generate innovative ideas that have the potential to drive significant impact.

However, coming up with a great idea is not enough. The third step in the innovation process is execution. It is essential to create a solution that is feasible within the constraints of available resources, including budget, time, and resources. A fantasy solution that is impossible to implement will not bring any value to the organization. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a practical plan for implementing the idea and taking it from concept to reality.

As Tanvir Khan aptly puts it, “innovation without execution is hallucination.” This highlights the importance of not only coming up with innovative ideas but also taking action to bring them to fruition. By focusing on problem definition, ideation, and execution, organizations can drive meaningful change, create value, and stay ahead of the competition in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Innovation is a key driver of success for organizations looking to thrive in the digital age. By following the steps of problem definition, ideation, and execution, businesses can harness the power of innovation to drive growth, improve efficiency, and deliver value to customers. As Tanvir Khan’s insights suggest, a structured approach to innovation can help organizations navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and stay agile in an ever-evolving marketplace.