Committing to Innovation [Topic: Committing to Innovation.] HOST: Innovation doesn't just happen - it's the result of a commitment by the organization. It has to be a stated priority - and when it is, it excites and inspires people. Here's what Dominic Barton thinks. [A video of Dominic Barton plays.] DOMINIC: I think you can motivate people by inspiring people, which really means having them reach beyond where they think they might go. I think people get energy and excited when they sort of see something, a potential they never thought about before. It's a push. It's a stretch. I actually think people get excited by that. And kind of we're going to raise ambition. Some people have that art, and I think it's around. It's just telling the truth. It's not judgmental, it's "this is what it is." And there are people who are able to do that. [The host is seated with Megan, Larry, and Lynn.] HOST: Megan, just stating that innovation is important doesn't get people excited does it? MEGAN: Not on its own, but because you say it out loud... explicitly, it shows that it's an important part of the culture. LARRY: It says to people "Hey, if you have a good idea, we'll run with it." That's inspiring. LYNN: It's empowering. I mean, for me, it's all about - how much do you care about what you do? When you care, you want to make it better. You look for new ways of doing things. New ways of delighting customers or helping people. That's what fires innovative ideas. HOST: Because you care about your work? LYNN: Sure. It's very important. Like Dominic said, it generates creative energy right across the organization. HOST: All sounds like it gets quite emotional! MEGAN: Well, it should in a way. I mean, when you work with people and you see something that will make the way they work easier...make them more effective, then there is an emotional side to that. LARRY: As a leader you want to make their lives better. You want to develop your company. That's emotional. It shows you're involved with what they do. LYNN: Innovation is very INVOLVING. It takes up a lot of energy. That's why you need to passionate about it. HOST: I'm sure it is. But how does it link back to the idea of a stated priority? LARRY: The organization puts innovation front of mind. It's there. It's important. MEGAN: Which gets people thinking, "Maybe I can share an idea I just had." LYNN: And because they know that their leaders are excited about innovation then they're more likely to share it and get something done. LARRY: It's exciting. And it shows that you, the leader, have confidence in the work everyone is doing. LYNN: Yeah, but you've got to communicate that confidence. Like I said, say it out loud. Get excited. Get energized. HOST: It sounds dynamic. I'd like to work there! OK, so state that innovation is a priority and then back that up with commitment, excitement, care, and emotional involvement in projects. It's a great formula. Answer the following questions: What is needed to build a culture of innovation? How do you attract and motivate innovators? Knowing not every idea will lead to success, how do you select the idea to implement? How do you handle risks associated with building innovation