Mixed customer feedback isn’t a setback; it’s a roadmap. The key is to shift from assumption-driven innovation to data-driven iteration. Leverage KPIs beyond revenue and time-to-market. Ask the right questions: How many experiments have we conducted? How many startups or third parties have we engaged for insights? Prioritize learning cycles over rigid strategies. Organize your innovation KPIs so they converge into a single, actionable vision. Treat every feedback point as a hypothesis to test, not just a problem to solve.

I believe that listening to customers is the foundation of any successful innovation strategy. Their feedback reveals real needs, pain points, and expectations, which should guide new ideas. However, it’s not just about responding to what they say—it’s also about anticipating what they might need before they realize it. I think the best approach is a balance between direct feedback and visionary thinking. By combining customer insights with creative problem-solving, businesses can develop solutions that are both relevant and forward-thinking. True innovation happens when we listen, adapt, and push boundaries at the same time.