How to Invent - Thriving in a Time of Rapid and Chaotic Change

In today's world, where rapid and chaotic change has become the norm, innovation is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. The pace at which industries are evolving, driven by technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviors, and global challenges, demands that organizations not only keep up but lead the way. The ability to invent, to create something new and valuable, is the differentiator that separates the leaders from the followers.

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However, invention in this era is not about random flashes of brilliance or relying on outdated methods. It's about a strategic approach that ensures your innovation is not just novel but impactful. Here’s a four-step guide to effective invention in today's dynamic landscape.

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1. Get Far Better Insights - Move Beyond Outdated VOC Methods and Surveys

Traditional methods like VOC (Voice of the Customer) insights and surveys have their place, but they often fall short in today's complex environment. They tend to focus on surface-level data and fail to capture the deep, nuanced understanding required for groundbreaking innovation. A study by McKinsey found that companies that use advanced customer analytics are 23 times more likely to outperform their competitors in acquiring new customers and 19 times more likely to be profitable. By utilizing advanced analytics, AI-driven trend analysis, and real-time customer feedback loops, companies can gain insights that are not just informative but transformative, guiding your invention process toward creating something that truly resonates with the market.

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2. Develop Dynamic and Layered Value - Make It 10 Times Better

In a crowded market, incremental improvements won't cut it. To stand out, your innovation needs to be exponentially better than what's currently available. Research from Deloitte indicates that 71% of executives say their companies’ innovation strategies are primarily focused on incremental improvements, yet those that focus on disruptive innovation are more likely to achieve market leadership. This means developing dynamic and layered value within your product, technology, or service. By aiming for a tenfold improvement, you ensure that your invention isn't just a step forward—it's a leap.

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3. Build a Comprehensive Pre-Launch Strategy

Even the most brilliant invention can falter without a thoughtful and thorough pre-launch strategy. According to Harvard Business Review, 80% of new products fail to reach their revenue goals because of poor planning and execution during the pre-launch phase . It's essential to consider every aspect of the market and competitive landscape, customer segmentation, and positioning. Focus on creating anticipation and demand before your product even hits the market. This preparation phase is about building a strong foundation so that when you do launch, you're not just entering the market—you’re dominating it from day one.

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4. Launch with a Big Splash - Leveraging Omni-Channel Marketing

The launch of your innovation is your moment to make a big impact. In today’s digital age, a successful launch strategy must be omnichannel, utilizing every available platform and method to build momentum quickly. Research shows that companies using omnichannel marketing strategies retain 89% of their customers, compared to 33% for companies with weak omnichannel strategies. This means combining traditional marketing approaches like PR and advertising with modern tactics such as influencer partnerships, social media campaigns, and digital content marketing. A well-orchestrated launch not only grabs attention but also builds lasting brand loyalty and market share.

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Conclusion

Invention today is about more than just creating something new; it’s about creating something that matters. By following these four steps—gathering superior insights, developing layered value, crafting a comprehensive pre-launch strategy, and executing a powerful launch—you can ensure that your innovation doesn’t just survive in a time of rapid change, but thrives. The world is waiting for your next big idea—make sure it's one that leaves a lasting impact.

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Sources:

1. McKinsey & Company, "Advanced Analytics: The Key to Unlocking Customer Value," 2022.
2. Deloitte, "Global Innovation Survey: The Role of Disruption," 2021.
3. Harvard Business Review, "Why Most Product Launches Fail," 2011.
4. Invesp, "Omnichannel Marketing Statistics and Trends," 2023.