Editor | On 24, Feb 2009

Michael S. Slocum

More and more the economic pressures will increase the need for proficiency unilaterally. One way for us to respond to this challenge would be to optimize those things that we currently do. This means of course that we need to get better- and we may already be very good. So although this sounds logical that doesn’t mean it is easy to do. In fact, it can be very difficult. Especially as financial resources cause us to reduce headcounts and streamline other expenses. That compounds the issue adding the complexity of having to do more with less. And the more has to be more efficient than it was before. This forces the less into a higher state of expectation. So it is quite a conundrum. Clearly we cannot proceed with a business as usual mindset. Things have to change.

You can’t expect things to change just because you need them to. The type of change needs to be intentioned. Also, capability must be provided to those expected to deliver the needed change. This makes these difficult times an ideal opportunity to provide training. As more is expected with less, it seems natural that the innovative ability of all needs to be increased. Therefore, intentional and structured innovative techniques are found to be more important than ever before.

The impetus for change is here. Take advantage of that and get the capability of your staff increased. Let innovation guide us through the storm. It has before and it can again.