Learning about innovation from Amy
Look at this picture – proof that the US is the mother of innovation culture. In Denmark we also have a tradition for caramel apples. Tradition with a big T, that is. It’s never changed and it is still only possible to get the red classic version that is superimposed bottom right. Randomly browsing I stumbled over this: http://www.amyscandykitchen.com, where the main picture is from.
It’s a perfect illustration of how important it is to look at something you like (the red caramel apple) and think: “that is really nice – how can I make it even better” (look at the that striped monster in the bottom corner of the tray). Thinking “We can do better…” is the heart of progress (a possible path to wealth). Thinking “…and then we can do better again, immediately!” is the heart of innovation (the safest path to survival)- always moving, changing, improving things. Look at this picture and learn a bit about what it means when innovation is a cultural business drive – not just a contemporary management book theme. In the States this drive to innovate somehow repeats itself in just about every business area you look at. Try to impose the feeling from these two pictures on your own field of business, and consider if you do as well as Amy. We can all learn from her:-)
[...] an interesting alternate perspective on their normally completely controlled environment. I found this link about candied apples very illuminating. The writer says: “Look at this picture – proof that [...]
Date: June 20th, 2008 at 13:42 Name: Overseas Perspective - DesignitGreat post: I like the clarity of the the thought and that the “image speaks a 1000 words” in this. Happy to see that despite our disasterous leadership and general state of affairs over here that we (americans) have something to contribute! even if it is highly caloric! I often wonder why innovation is a cultural phenomenon, when you would think it was the human condition: to find an alternate pathway and walk down it. Conformity is a curious business, but I suppose there is a lot of comfort in it. In any case, thanks for the great metaphor.
Date: June 20th, 2008 at 13:48 Name: Kevin SpragueSomeone once said: Reduced to the max. I think that is why we still eat the minimalistic red appel version :-)
Date: July 25th, 2008 at 14:23 Name: Michael