Unveiling the IGNITE Innovation Model - simplifying innovation for impact

Introduction: rediscovering innovation

Good innovation models should be simple, effective, and easy to use. They should clearly describe each step leading to innovation.

I thought about this back in the days while I was conducting research for my master's thesis.

I was delving deeper and comparing various theoretical approaches to the innovation process. Many different approaches, and even more different perspectives.

They were brilliant and left me in awe.

I admired the minds that created these solutions. It felt like touring a beautiful city, knowing the names of the creators of each of these beautiful structures.

However, I still felt there was something more. Some undiscovered layer calling out to me. A treasure hidden in mysterious undergrounds?

But deadlines were also calling me, and I set aside this thought for several years. After all, the incubation phase is also an important part of the creative process.

Until recently, when I decided to return to my notes.

Resurgence of exploration

The hidden treasures called me again. To take another look, to analyze once more. To search for entrances to the hidden undergrounds - but how?

I started to supplement my knowledge with new topics and broaden my horizons with new directions.

Today, it's much easier than it was back then.

We've got powerful tools in our hands, namely AI tools, especially LLMs. With their help, I tried to uncover clues hidden on old and new maps.

Distilling complexity into simplicity

I revisited topics like:

• TRIZ,
• Lean Startup,
• Design Thinking,
• 5, 7, and 10-step innovation processes,
• Stage-Gate.

I looked for common features.

I started creating an averaged version.

I focused on specific steps rather than their names.

I began to notice certain patterns, and these patterns started to connect.

I began to see the outline of an old path on the map.

Identifying key patterns of innovation models

Most methods shared actions such as:

• Discovery and Problem Definition
• Ideation and Concept Development
• Evaluation and Validation
• Implementation Planning and Execution
• Monitoring and Iteration

I believe simple tools can't have many steps, that is why I limited them.

If they are too long, they are not intuitive and are hard to remember.

Seeking deeper clarity

The operating principles should be simple and clearly communicate what is done at each step. A longer and precise step-by-step instruction will be a supplement to the method.

However, averaging still didn't satisfy me.

I lacked greater focus on needs.

I missed references to building a culture of innovation, the foundation for future innovations.

In some methods, I felt stakeholder participation should be greater; we rarely create solely for ourselves.

Finally, we don't always start with a problem; sometimes, we start with an unmet need or a new application.

Key objectives of the method

It got serious, so I resorted to the tools of a little explorer: paper and pen.

Goal:

• An effective and simple method,
• Combining the best features of other models,
• Eliminating the weaknesses of each,
• Comprehensive yet easy to use,
• Agile enough to generate solutions easily and quickly...
• But also promoting the long-term building of an Innovation Culture.

Moreover, I decided a good name, an acronym, was necessary.

No one said it would be easy.

Fortunately, easily accessible AI tools supplement these shortcomings.

Seriously if you have to re-frame something they are spot on.

Defining actions and finding synonyms

Each action needs a definition.

Definitions need synonyms so that from many variations, so a word is formed that makes sense. At the same time, each letter corresponds to subsequent actions.

I won't overwhelm you with the multitude of solutions that emerged, but...

From all of them one shined especially bright

I present the concept of IGNITE innovation model:

• Identify

Identify opportunities and clearly define the challenge based on the problem or need of stakeholders.

• Generate

Generate ideas and potential solutions that provide value.

• Navigate

Assess feasibility, uniqueness, and market potential.

• Implement

Plan and implement the solution that best matches the challenge and provides value that customers are willing to pay for.

• Track

Monitor performance and iterate based on feedback.

• Evolve

Continuously improve and adapt the innovation based on feedback and testing.

Looking Forward - IGNITE's potential pathways

Each step will have corresponding tools (existing or not-yet) but now I am researching their effectiveness, ease of use, and potential.

Also, they have to meet the original goal of the IGNITE method.

Precise step-by-step instructions will emerge after picking the right tools for the job.

I will be sharing results here, so if you don't want to miss it, it is good time to follow.

The Journey Ahead - embracing possibilities

This article is already longer than it should be, so thank you for reading this far.

Maybe this method will gain recognition, and you can proudly say you knew it as one of firsts.

Maybe it will end up in the trash bin of history, and then I'll only have the pride of having tried. Experimentation is the foundation of innovation.

Maybe it will be somewhere in between, but if it helps even a few people create innovations - I will be fulfilled.

In all scenarios, thank you for being here.

Please let me know what you think about this innovation model - feedback is crucial for me.

But before you go, one last thing I need to explain...

Why I am fueled by IGNITE name?

I am drawn to the IGNITE method name for several reasons.

Firstly, just as discovering how to tame fire distinguished humanity by accelerating our evolution and opening new horizons, IGNITE has the potential to catalyze innovation. Of course on a much smaller scale. I'm no Prometheus, but if this method sparks your creativity and leads to something good, I will consider it a success.

Secondly, much like fire transforms fuel into heat and light, IGNITE symbolizes unlocking the latent potential of ideas and creativity, by illuminating new pathways.

Lastly, reflecting on my engineering studies where I pursued a patent related to internal combustion engines, I understand the pivotal role of ignition in converting fuel energy into forward motion - a concept that resonates deeply with IGNITE's essence of driving innovation and pushing progress forward.

What do you think about it?

I greatly value your feedback, as it is crucial for refining and advancing this method further. Please share your thoughts in the comments or send them via message, they are more than welcome.

Let's create something great!

Let's IGNITE innovation and blaze new trails together! ??