Change and Challenge 197to bypass inadequate formal processes do not lead to re-
newal but to cover up and confusion. They only hide the
problem. The informal connections have to be open and
recognized as valuable. Does the business culture encourage
this?
Secondly, the innovation gains ground because it is useful,
seen as a possible answer to a problem in another part of the
company. It may get a sponsor.
Lastly, the new idea becomes more solid, people work on
it and it may be made into a procedure or a product that is
marketed internally or externally.
When this three-part cycle is allowed to happen it keeps
the company healthy. Ninety per cent of these new ideas may
come to nothing, but one of the other 10 per cent could be-
come the core product or service in five years’ time. It is
important to explore avenues even when they do not seem
very promising at first glance.
What is the leader’s role in this process? Maybe as the in-
novator of the idea. Perhaps as the sponsor. Certainly as a
force in creating a culture where innovation and difference
can flower.
The whole process is like evolution in the biological
world. Nature continually innovates, creating both different
forms and variations of the same form. No two animals are
alike in the same species. The differences may be slight, but
if they give an advantage in the environment over time, they
will survive and be transmitted and eventually give rise to a
whole new species or genus. This organic metaphor appeals
to me more than a machine metaphor like re-engineering. I
also think it is more accurate. The word ‘organization’ has
the same root as ‘organic’, and ‘organism’, meaning a whole
living system. The root of the word ‘corporation’ is the Latin
word corporis, meaning a living body. Leaders keep an orga-
nization alive and healthy.
We cannot predict the future, but innovation is the way to
adapt in advance. Continual innovation primes a company
for many possible futures. Any company that rests on its
laurels will have them stolen. A business is either on the way