Experimenting
"Let's see what happens if we take existing elements and combine them in new ways. And let's get people involved to ensure an implementable plan of action."
Some people like to experiment. Once they agree on a common process or way of thinking, they can troubleshoot anything. They contribute to the team by adding careful testing and getting input from all concerned in order to confirm ideas. They emphasize Experimenting.
When people use the Experimenting Style, they emphasize fact finding and information gathering. They seek solutions by applying pre-established processes and trial and error. As problem solvers, they like to collect as many facts and opinions as possible before they make their decision. They are curious, practical, and good team players.
How Does This Style Support Innovation?
- By providing methods and / or systems to take risks in stages (i.e., with a good research design) even when the outcome / goal is uncertain;
- By getting people to collaborate and become involved in the decision making;
- By developing a process of planning and working together;
- By leveraging existing technologies or methods in new ways.
How Can This Style Hinder Innovation if It Is Overemphasized?
- By getting lost in the details of implementation or being too concerned with the process;
- By overemphasizing testing over action;
- By losing perspective on what really matters.
What Important Questions About a Problem Are Raised by This Style?
- What are some ways to find some immediate steps to take?
- How can we get other people's creative input on this?
- What are the components of this problem?
What Can Drive this Style Crazy?
- Ignoring risks and not paying attention to implementation requirements;
- Not having a clear goal or purpose;
- Alternatively, spending a lot of time discussing possible goals.
This Style's Favorite Idea Killer
- “That idea is too idealistic; it could never happen.”
More ...
Previous Page: The “Exploring Style”
Next Page: The “Modifying Style” Innovation Profile
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What Are Innovation Styles?
Myth: There is a right way to be creative.
Truth: Einstein and Edison were both very creative, with very different styles. Einstein had a preference for exploring and visioning. Edison had a preference for experimenting.
