Opening Day at ISPIM Connects Osaka: Unlocking the Future of Innovation

The first day of ISPIM Connects Osaka was packed with engaging keynotes, insightful discussions, and thought-provoking examples of how innovation is being redefined in an AI-driven, globally competitive world. From exploring aging as an economic driver to uncovering the role of collaborative ecosystems, the day underscored the importance of innovation as both a strategic tool and a force for societal good. Below are the highlights and takeaways, framed in a professional and approachable way for a broad audience.

Welcome Session: A Global Call to Action:

The opening remarks emphasized Osaka’s unique position in shaping global innovation. Iain Bitran , Executive Director of ISPIM, set the tone, highlighting Osaka as historic entrepreneurial and innovative area with a rich history in culture.

Key speakers like Osaka’s Deputy Mayor Toru Takahashi and President Noburu Konno shared insights into Japan’s innovation ecosystem. A recurring theme was the seamless blend of tradition and modernity, with collaboration across industries, government, and academia as the cornerstone for adapting to rapid technological change.

The session also introduced the IMS Innovation Management Systems Summit, laying a foundation for best practices in systematic innovation.

World Expo 2025: Designing Future Society for Our Lives:

With speakers Manatsu Ichinoki and Adam Fulford , this session offered a visionary look at Expo 2025, which aims to address global challenges spanning health, environmental sustainability, and societal resilience.

Highlights included:

? Osaka’s unique entrepreneurial history, exemplified by global brands like Panasonic and Nintendo.

? The region’s risk-taking culture, fostered by a comedic and creative spirit, which stands apart from other areas in Japan.

? Personal anecdotes from Manatsu Ichinoki, who shared how attending Expo 1970 shaped his view of international collaboration.

This session reinforced how large-scale events can act as powerful catalysts for systemic innovation.

Keynote: Aging Means Innovation:

Florian Kohlbacher Kohlbacher delivered a compelling talk on how aging populations are not a challenge but an untapped opportunity for innovation.

Key insights included:

? Four types of products driving innovation: personal care robots, senior-friendly devices, universally designed products, and transgenerational solutions like Nintendo Wii.

? Japan’s demographic trends as a global case study, with a shrinking population and a growing silver generation.

? The rise of gerontechnologies, addressing the diverse needs of older populations while fostering economic growth and workforce transformation.

The session posed a critical question: Is aging a threat or an opportunity? For regions like Florida and many others, with similar demographic shifts, the answer lies in seizing this opportunity.

Achieving Innovation Through Collective Knowledge:

Torsten Kanisch from AstraZeneca explored how collective knowledge and collaboration are vital for addressing challenges in healthcare and beyond.

Takeaways included:

? The healthcare industry’s role in decarbonizing, as it contributes 5% of global carbon emissions.

? AstraZeneca’s focus on integrating AI and systematic collaboration to drive impactful, sustainable innovation.

This session highlighted how knowledge-sharing and partnerships are key to thriving in today’s competitive landscape.

Purpose-Driven Innovation for a Better World:

Tomoko Kawakami emphasized the importance of aligning innovation strategies with societal impact.

Key themes included:

? The evolution of non-disruptive creation, inspired by the Blue Ocean Strategy, to unlock new markets and growth opportunities.

? Real-world examples like AXE Yamazaki, which transformed its sewing machine business to target diverse markets, including seniors and e-commerce users.

The session encouraged businesses to ask: What is innovation for? And how can it drive sustainable growth?

Lunch Break: We had Bento Boxes ??

Innovation Ecosystem: Accelerating Systematic Innovation“

Insights from Yoichi Oshima and Magnus Karlsson - Systematic Innovation Management , and Joanne Hyland , shed light on how organizations like Panasonic are leveraging AI and systematic frameworks to adapt and thrive.

Key points included:

? The introduction of ISO 56001, providing a standardized approach to innovation management.

? A framework for transforming organizational culture through systematic, collaborative innovation practices.

Innovation Management for the Well-Being of Society:

The day concluded with a session featuring Si?n Charles and Kenichi Ueda, exploring how innovation can transform healthcare and social care systems.

Highlights included:

? Redesigning health systems to meet the needs of aging societies.

? Collaborative approaches between governments, healthcare providers, and innovators to enhance societal well-being.

Osaka Izakaya Experience in Shinsekai:

The evening offered a chance to network in a relaxed setting at Kushikatsu Takayuki Ajino-daimaru, showcasing Osaka’s vibrant food culture. This unique experience combined cultural immersion with meaningful conversations, reinforcing the importance of personal connections in driving collaboration.

Why This Matters?:

The opening day of ISPIM Connects Osaka emphasized the diversity and depth of innovation strategies that can address global challenges. Whether through aging as an economic driver, AI-driven collaboration, or purpose-driven sustainability, the conference showcased how innovation can empower businesses and societies alike.

As we continue exploring these themes, the question remains: How will your organization, city, and county adapt and lead in this evolving landscape?

Steve Diasio is an innovation expert and influencer who supports aspiring leaders, innovators, and change-makers. His bootcamps, sprints, and training encourage individuals and organizations to critically examine their surroundings and envision a more innovative future. He is the founder of the School of Creativity and Innovation, where he crafts training on cutting-edge innovation methodologies, design thinking, and disruptive business models.

From the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the intellectual hubs of London, Steve’s global perspective has been shaped by his tenure as a researcher at impactful institutions like ESADE Business School and Imperial Business School. In 2022, he was recognized as one of the Top 50 Business Professors in the World by the esteemed Poets&Quants Business School Rankings?—?a testament to his profound impact on the academic world.

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