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Writer's pictureMike Cobb

Innovation - Y...LOOK FEEL SOUND



Innovation is the process of taking a new idea, or improving an old one, then building and testing it, but most importantly implementing it.

Innovation is different from creativity or invention, as these focus purely on the generation of new ideas. Creativity and invention are important parts of innovation, but only one step in the process and quite frankly, the easiest step.

A team’s ability to innovate is a direct result of the environment and culture they have created. The environment is a physical feature that encompasses the surroundings, physical systems and resources. On the other hand, Culture is comprised of the human features of the processes (habits), values and shared expectations that is utilizes. That is why it is essential to be intentional about fostering a productive environment and culture.

Over the coming weeks, I will dive into 10 thoughts I believe are key in planting, nurturing, and harvesting an Innovation Environment and Culture. I will brainstorm the ways an innovative environment and culture are realized and experienced using the Y-Chart (taught to me by Kelsey Vrooman.). This three-part graphic organizer arranges brainstorming of a topic around three dimensions: What Does It Look Like? What Does It Feel Like? What Does It Sound Like?

Here are the 10 thought areas I will dive into (in no particular order):
·Ask Questions
·The Physical Space is important (3rd Teacher)
·Risk Taking
·Yes, And Environment
·GPS (Grace, Positivity and Support)
· Agile
· Faces in Spaces
·Trust
·Essential
·Bias To Action

I hope you will follow along and share your feedback on my ideas for innovation.


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4 Comments


joel.backon
Dec 29, 2022

Your theme of innovation reminds me of Peter Senge's "learning organizations" back in 1990 (The Fifth Discipline). Later, Senge wrote a field book called Schools That Learn to shift the focus from business to education. Many of your thought areas are consistent with Senge's focus. I look forward to your next posts.

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Mike Cobb
Mike Cobb
Dec 30, 2022
Replying to

Joel Backon, Thanks for your comment. I have not read Senge's work (90s were college days) but I will have to check this out. This series is based on my 30+ years in education, countless innovative collaborations, many great books and some incredible colleagues I have been fortunate enough to work with over the years.

Thanks again. - Mike

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jgulla
Dec 29, 2022

Innovation is a term frequently used and infrequently practiced. I had a few things to say about this some years ago. https://www.nais.org/magazine/independent-school/spring-2017/the-search-for-true-innovation/

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Mike Cobb
Mike Cobb
Dec 30, 2022
Replying to

John, I remember the article well, It is a great read and still as timely today.

Thanks for sharing. - Mike

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