Modifying
"Let's build on what we already have and make improvements where necessary."
Some people feel comfortable moving forward one step at a time; they like to build
on what they already know is true and proven. They provide a team with the stability
and thoroughness it needs to do a quality job. They emphasize Modifying.
People who take a modifying approach to innovation are most comfortable working
with facts and making decisions. They like to solve problems. They seek solutions
by applying methods that have worked in the past. These people tend to be precise,
reliable, efficient, and disciplined.
How does this style Support Innovation?
- By being responsive to immediate needs and maximizing available resources;
- By helping the short-term motivation of groups by finding practical
ways of getting immediate success;
- By keeping the change relevant to current needs.
How Can This Style Hinder Innovation if It Is Overemphasized?
- By being too tied to present circumstances and not recognizing far-reaching
goals;
- By missing less obvious opportunities;
- By verbalizing obstacles and constraints too early in the process,
when divergent thinking is needed.
What important questions about a problem are raised by this style?
- How can we improve on this?
- What has been done before?
- What doesn't work about this?
What can drive this style crazy?
- Changing direction in midstream or pursuing ideas that have not been
thought through;
- Lack of follow-through.
This style's favorite Idea Killer
- "That idea is too crazy; it's not worthy of consideration."
More ...
Previous Page: The “Exploring Style”
Innovation Profile
Myth: Some people are not creative, and they can't be taught to be creative.
Truth: Everyone has the capacity for creative ideas. The trick is to distract
ourselves from our natural blocks to creative expression.
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