To those of us who have focused our professional careers on driving foresight and enabling innovation in business it’s no surprise to see research that confirms the connection between corporate culture and innovation. I’ve often made the case that corporate culture is one of the most important (if not indeed THE most important) factor in how an organization functions.
Some may argue that in these tough economic times the higher levels of Maslow’s Hierarchy are less relevant than simple employment and survival. Certainly most managers align their behavior and incentives towards basic survival. Innovative companies, even those that undertake layoffs and scale back investment, will likely maintain the aspects of their corporate culture that drive innovation to be prepared to take advantage of the market upswing when it does come.
Process innovations that save money in the near term are likely to be very welcome during this downturn. Companies that can foster both kinds of innovation will be more likely to survive the downturn and take advantage of the upswing.
Corporate Culture Is Most Important Factor In Driving Innovation.
