We have come to live in an increasingly connected world. Technology binds everything today, and the previous year has only led to the rapid acceleration of technological trends. The world today is moving faster – in terms of technological developments – than it was ever before. What was once considered the staple of science fiction has become a reality in today’s technological landscape: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), the Internet of Things (IoT), Automated Vehicles, Blockchain, and 3D printing.
Sometimes, the old must be torn asunder to make way for the new. Which is why innovation in the long-run for organizations has become more complex. To be successful at innovation, business leaders ought to leverage their diverse knowledge and skills. It is here that books can accelerate your learning as a business leader. So, let’s take a quick at some new books on innovation, based on insights.
Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull
The biggest pre-conceived notion when it comes to creativity is that rules and processes tend to stifle creativity. Catmull, in his book, beautifully depicts how processes can liberate creativity and not stifle them. He offers many real-life examples of companies that have fostered creativity through a process of discipline. Catmull shares the principles that he believes have helped companies achieve a culture of innovation and creativity with a disciplined and scientific approach.
His book has many real life examples that illustrate the efficacy of these principles at work. There are many companies like Pixar that do not rely on ‘a few creative geniuses’ and have instead successful created a culture of innovation and creativity over decades. What is je ne sai quoi of their creative success? That is precisely what Catmull delves into.
Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
As the title suggests, the book focuses on extreme ownership which is a polarizing idea in the business world. In essence, the book highlights the harsh truth that business leaders are responsible for what happens to an organization, irrespective of whether or not someone else is at fault for a specific adverse outcome. The book depicts a process for bringing a style of military-like leadership in the corporate world, which is by itself a controversial idea. Lessons are taken from real-life war events and they serve to inspire leaders who are committed to building an organization that is focussed on business excellence. This books reminds leaders of how important the right mindset is for long-term success, and the principles of success are simple and yet difficult to execute.
The author pens this book by collating his insights from the research conducted of a plethora of companies who have successfully transformed themselves from being just good to great. He has highlighted 6 key elements that have enabled these companies to achieve a successful transformation. While the author gives you the ingredients to create a company that fosters excellence, you have to carve your own path.
The book offers tremendous insight on key facets like strategy, management, culture, and leadership in a practical manner with real-life examples to illustrate the author’s points with conviction. Once again, the elements described in the book may seem simple enough at an initial glance but are difficult to put into action.
We are living in an age where innovation comes first. While more products are being created today, many fail to meet market expectations, and companies often spend a lot of time and resources to create the wrong product. Can this process of constant failure be avoided?
The book sheds light on how companies can inculcate certain processes and principles that will increase their chances of success in a highly competitive and cut-throat market.
