What is Innovation? The Engine of Progress

Creating new value and driving forward motion.

Innovation is the process of creating something new or significantly improving what already exists—whether it’s a product, service, process, or even a way of thinking. It’s not just about invention; it’s about applying creativity and problem-solving to deliver value, spark change, or meet a need in a fresh way. For me, innovation feels personal—it’s that moment when an idea clicks, and you can’t wait to see it come to life. In a broader sense, it’s the engine that keeps businesses, industries, and societies moving forward.

In a large enterprise, innovation can look like launching a game-changing product, streamlining operations with new tech, or rethinking how teams collaborate. It’s about staying relevant and competitive, even when you’re a big player with lots of moving parts.

How to Drive Innovation in a Large Enterprise

Driving innovation in a massive organization can feel like turning a cruise ship—it’s doable, but it takes strategy, patience, and buy-in from the right people. Here are some practical ways to make it happen:

Foster a Curious Culture

Encourage employees at all levels to ask questions and challenge the status quo. I’ve seen how a simple “Why do we do it this way?” can spark big ideas.
Set up safe spaces—like brainstorming sessions or “idea labs”—where people can experiment without fear of failure.

Break Down Silos

In big companies, departments can get territorial. Get teams talking to each other—marketing with tech, sales with R&D. Cross-pollination of ideas is where magic happens.
I’d try hosting casual mixers or cross-functional projects to get those conversations flowing.

Empower Your People

Give employees time and resources to tinker. Google’s old “20% time” policy—where staff could spend a chunk of their week on passion projects—is a classic example.
Recognize and reward risk-takers, even if their ideas don’t always pan out. A personal pat on the back can go a long way.

Leverage Data and Tech

Big enterprises have tons of data—use it! Spot trends, predict customer needs, and test concepts fast with AI or analytics.
Bring in tools like automation or collaboration platforms to free up brain space for creative thinking.

Connecting with the outside world and leading with a clear mission.

Listen to the Outside World

Customers, partners, even competitors—they’re goldmines for inspiration. I’d set up feedback loops or watch X posts to see what people are buzzing about.
Partner with startups or innovators outside the company to inject fresh perspectives.

Lead with Purpose

Tie innovation to a mission people care about—sustainability, customer joy, whatever lights up your enterprise’s heart. When I’ve worked on stuff that matters to me, the ideas flow easier.
Get leadership on board to model this vibe and back it with budget and time.

Start Small, Scale Fast

Don’t boil the ocean. Pilot a small project—say, a new process in one department—then roll it out when it works. I’ve learned small wins build momentum.
Keep iterating based on what sticks.

A Personal Take

For me, driving innovation is about staying restless in a good way—always looking for that next tweak or breakthrough. In a large enterprise, it’s trickier because of scale, but the payoff’s huge when you get it right. It’s like planting seeds: some won’t sprout, but the ones that do can grow into something massive.