Part 2 of 5
In this five-part series, I'll share my perspective on what drives innovation in today's organizations. From asking better questions and embracing human-centered thinking to thoughtfully leveraging AI, we'll explore how leaders can unlock the creativity and ingenuity that already exists within their teams.
Make sure you read Part 1: Discovering the Innovator in Us
One of the most powerful catalysts for innovation is also one of the simplest: How might we?
These three words shift us from defending the status quo to exploring possibilities.
Instead of focusing on constraints, we look for opportunities. Instead of rushing to solutions, we become curious about the problem. Instead of assuming someone else owns the challenge, we invite everyone into the conversation. Questions like these can transform how teams think:
- How might we eliminate friction for our customers and partners?
- How might we improve the employee experience?
- How might we better align business and technology around our strategic priorities?
- How might we create more value through emerging technologies?
The beauty of "How might we?" is that it doesn't seek a single right answer. It creates space for exploration, and exploration is where innovation thrives.
From Curiosity to Action
The power of "How might we?" isn't theoretical. I've seen organizations use this simple question to redesign customer experiences, streamline processes, strengthen collaboration between business and technology teams, and identify practical applications for emerging technologies.
The question itself is simple, but the outcomes can be transformational when leaders create the time and space to explore it.
What makes the approach so effective is that it shifts people from defending the way things are to imagining what could be. It encourages diverse perspectives, surfaces ideas that might otherwise go unheard, and creates momentum toward meaningful change.
Today’s Challenge: ask yourself, “how might we think and collaborate differently to advance our most important priorities?”
Join the conversation and add your thoughts on the LinkedIn article.
See you back here for part 3 in our series.
