Issue 11: Should we award wacky ideas if they result in innovation?

Does rewarding wacky ideas help create an environment for innovation in a company?

This week’s briefing report was prepared by Sandhya Chilpalkatti, editor and publisher of Spa Mantra magazine, a C&E Media publication. Her perspective, coming from India, on innovation and imagination has drawn our attention – “rewarding the wackiest, out-of-box ideas.”

Do you find this a practical way for businesses to become more innovative? Please share some examples.

Sandhya’s Briefing Report

1. What are the most significant global issues facing us today?

Instability is the biggest global issue today… financial, political, and spiritual. It is affecting people and nations in the ways they deal with each other, not very positively.

2. What do you see as the main innovations happening around the world, those which are game changing and/or disruptive?

Cloud Computing is by far the biggest game changer while also being disruptive.

3. What do you see as the main innovations in the spa/wellness industry (existing and future)?

All those which will take the ‘treatment’ to an ‘experience’… go beyond the ‘physical’ realm.

4. What do you see as the greatest opportunities/challenges for the global spa and wellness industry?

The increasing awareness and the very growth of the industry is an opportunity, which allows for creation of more products, treatments, spa destinations, etc.

The single biggest challenge is the dearth of trained manpower.

5. What are some practical ways for businesses to create a climate for creativity and innovation?

Offer the freedom to ideate and dream up all kinds of ideas without being judgmental.

Reward the wackiest out of box ideas and solutions!

What do you think about Sandhya’s thoughts? Let us know.

Plus, if you haven’t read Sylvia Sepielli’s report, do so here. Her ideas stirred up lots of thoughts last week.

In previous years, different questions were asked for the briefing reports submitted by Summit delegates, resulting in an array of different answers from around the world. Are you curious to see what the similarities are between various countries or regions? Take a look at past briefing reports.