Reflecting on the recent Change Management Institute Event, we explore how small, consistent improvements lead to substantial outcomes. Through iterative progress, organisations can innovate sustainably, addressing complex challenges incrementally. Real-world examples highlight enhanced customer service, product development, and compliance adaptation. Embracing the Six ITs™ framework, particularly ITer-IT!, fosters dynamic, collaborative, and satisficing solutions.
Reflecting on the recent Change Management Institute Event on Landing Innovation, it’s clear that innovation is not a singular event but a continuous journey. The concept of iterative progress, where small, consistent improvements can lead to substantial outcomes, aligns perfectly with the principles outlined in YourBigPic’s Six ITs™ framework.
Iterative Progress and Innovation
Innovation often appears daunting, especially when viewed as a monumental shift or groundbreaking invention. However, true innovation thrives in environments that encourage iterative progress—small, manageable changes that collectively bring about significant transformation. This approach not only makes innovation more accessible but also more sustainable.
ITer-IT!, one of the Six ITs™, emphasises the importance of iterative progress. By regularly evaluating, resetting, and reinvigorating our efforts, we can ensure that our innovative processes remain dynamic and responsive to changing needs.
Real Stories of Iterative Innovation
Revolutionising Customer Service: A medium-sized tech company improved its customer service through incremental changes. They started with small tweaks—enhancing their FAQ section, providing additional training for support staff, and slowly integrating AI chatbots for common queries. Over time, these small improvements led to a significant increase in customer satisfaction and a reduction in support costs;
Enhancing Product Development: A leading Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) company faced challenges with a new product launch. By iterating on their product formulation based on continuous feedback, they managed to address key issues such as product odor during cooking, as mentioned in the whitepaper. This iterative approach ensured the product met customer expectations and was well-received in the market; and
Adapting to Market Changes: A financial services firm used an iterative approach to adapt to regulatory changes. Instead of overhauling their compliance processes all at once, they made gradual adjustments, allowing them to stay compliant while minimising disruption to their operations. This strategy not only kept them ahead of regulatory requirements but also enhanced their operational efficiency.
The Power of Iteration Resolving Wicked Challenges
The whitepaper, “Your Organisation’s Wicked Challenge Resolved in ‘Six ITs’” highlights the complexity of today’s business challenges, which refer to as Wicked Challenges. These are problems that resist traditional problem-solving techniques due to their dynamic and multifaceted nature. An iterative approach can be particularly effective here:
Dynamic Complexity: As organisations grow, they face increasingly complex systems of changing problems. By embracing iteration, companies can tackle these challenges more effectively. Each iteration provides new insights, leading to more informed and refined strategies;
Satisficing Outcomes: Herbert Simon’s concept of satisficing—aiming for solutions that are good enough rather than perfect—aligns with iterative progress. Each iteration moves the organization closer to an optimal solution without the paralysis of seeking perfection; and
Collaborative Engagement: Iterative processes foster collaboration. As outlined in Collabor-IT, bringing diverse stakeholders together through iterative cycles ensures that multiple perspectives are considered, leading to more robust and comprehensive solutions.
Conclusion
Innovation is not a destination but a journey. By adopting an iterative approach, organisations can make continuous improvements that lead to substantial and transformative outcomes. This mindset not only makes innovation more manageable but also ensures that it is sustainable and aligned with the dynamic complexities of modern business environments.
At YourBigPic, we believe in the power of iterative progress to resolve Wicked Challenges™ and drive meaningful change. Let’s embrace this journey of continuous improvement and see how small, consistent efforts can transform the way we approach growth and development, 📈