No matter how hard we try to keep things simple and under control, many man-made systems turn out to be – or to become over time – quite complex and unpredictable. Despite our effort. Against our intentions. In stark contrast to our preference for simple, linear, static, controllable, predictable systems. Computer software, stock markets and tax codes are … Continue reading The dynamic ups and downs of human systems
Tag: resistance
Who bears the risk of innovation failure?
Innovation is all about novelty, about charting new territory and sailing unknown waters. This implies that the outcome of any innovative endeavour is by no means certain, let alone predetermined. On the contrary, innovation clearly entails risk, and in fact two different types of risk: one is for the innovator, the other for the society he's working in. With only mild exaggeration, you might consider the first the risk of innovation failure, whereas the other is the risk of innovation success.
Dealing with uncertainty
The Three Horizons present a powerful concept that helps us think about the future, that gives structure to our vision and ideas, our plans and concerns. This concept derives its strength from acknowledge the emergent character of the future, introducing three time horizons that coexist at any point in time, though in an evolving pattern.
On leadership
Innovation is an investment. Considerable resources are put aside, often for a long time, in hopes of some dividend at a later stage. This entails risk, and that requires leadership to deal with.
The myth of unlimited capacity
Humanity has proved to be incredibly innovative in adjusting our living conditions to our advantage. It seems as if our collective ingenuity was absolutely superior and capable of mastering any kind of problem. But is this really true??
understanding innovation 