O QUE É UMA BOA INOVAÇÃO? APRENDA AQUI! - ALEXANDRE UEHARA | Cortes do Athena Podcast

Summary

In this engaging discussion, the speaker reflects on their 15-year journey in corporate innovation, emphasizing that innovation is not limited to technology but must be woven into the company culture. They share insights from their experience, highlighting how innovation can be driven through creativity and execution. By offering real-world examples, such as simple yet effective solutions in product manufacturing and business models, the speaker underscores that innovation is about creating value, whether through operational improvements or customer satisfaction. The importance of involving HR in fostering a culture of innovation is also discussed, challenging conventional views of innovation being solely a technological endeavor.

Takeaways

• 😀 Innovation is not just about technology, it's about creating a culture of change within an organization.
• 😀 An innovative mindset requires being a provocateur and challenging traditional methods to achieve business results.
• 😀 The success of innovation in a company depends on integrating it into the company’s culture, not just a specific department.
• 😀 Innovation needs to generate real results, whether it’s new revenue, profit, or user satisfaction.
• 😀 In the early stages, innovation often doesn't deliver immediate results, as it requires time to become a deeply ingrained cultural shift.
• 😀 The role of Human Resources (HR) in driving innovation is crucial because HR deals with the people who shape the company culture.
• 😀 Innovation can occur without advanced technology, focusing on simple, low-cost solutions that add value, like improving convenience for customers.
• 😀 Small, simple innovations (such as pre-cut fruits or vegetables) can create new business models and increase customer satisfaction.
• 😀 Innovation isn't always high-tech; it can be about adjusting the business model or customer service approach to meet new needs.
• 😀 A key to successful innovation is solving real problems for both individuals and businesses, ensuring that solutions are grounded in practicality and real-world needs.

Q & A

What is the speaker's experience with innovation?

The speaker has over 15 years of experience in innovation, having worked with innovation in large companies, including the finance sector. They also have a background in technology and have helped establish innovation departments in organizations.

How does the speaker define innovation?

Innovation is not just about ideas; it must be executed. The speaker emphasizes that innovation requires a process that generates results, whether through new revenue, profit, or improved user satisfaction.

Why does the speaker believe innovation should be part of company culture?

The speaker argues that innovation should not be limited to a single department. Instead, it must be integrated into the company's culture, involving all departments like HR, legal, and business, to ensure it becomes a widespread practice.

What is the role of HR in fostering innovation?

The speaker suggests that HR could play a pivotal role in fostering innovation. Since HR is already focused on people and company culture, it is in a prime position to drive innovation across the organization, not just in technology.

How does the speaker challenge the common association between innovation and technology?

The speaker points out that innovation is often wrongly associated with technology alone. While technology can support innovation, true innovation can also occur through non-technological solutions, such as rethinking business models.

Can you provide an example of non-technological innovation mentioned in the transcript?

One example is the case of a toothpaste manufacturer facing a production issue where toothpaste tubes were missing. The solution came from a simple, low-cost fix: using a fan to blow away empty boxes, ensuring the toothpaste was always included.

What does the speaker say about the relationship between innovation and business results?

Innovation should directly generate business results, whether through new business models, revenue streams, or customer satisfaction. It’s not just about creating new ideas but ensuring they add value and tangible results.

What was the speaker's perspective on the short-term expectations of innovation in companies?

The speaker cautions against expecting immediate results from innovation. Companies often make the mistake of thinking innovation will produce quick results, but it’s a long-term process that requires cultural change and patience.

What does the speaker believe is the main obstacle when implementing innovation?

One key obstacle is that many companies fail to understand that innovation is a cultural shift, not just a technological or departmental change. The process involves shifting mindsets and practices across the organization.

How does the speaker describe the innovation behind pre-cut vegetables and fruits in supermarkets?

The speaker uses the example of pre-cut vegetables and fruits being sold at a higher price. This is seen as a simple yet effective innovation, where the value is in convenience and time-saving, highlighting that innovation can meet practical customer needs.