What an excellent series. This is actually an older series (2008) but the processes and theories are key to all business models; managing, engaging and motivating employees in a way that grabs their hearts and drives innovative leadership. It starts with creating a culture of innovation not only within the company and it's employees, but outside as well with rewarding positive behaviors and encouraging feedback.
The Business of Innovation: The Human Element
This is a 5 part series that has great tips on breeding innovation within your organization using examples from proven corporations.
Does this apply to small business, in many ways it most certainly does. We have a local pizza shop that takes the messages this video series has to heart and applies them to their organization daily. Cam's NY Pizzeria (Camillus, NY) promotes a community and team oriented culture from the floor up. You see it colorfully painted on the walls when you walk in, signs that illuminate the values of a strong team environment. There are dozens of plaques adorning the walls, all indicating Cam's community support. The employees are always happy (really I know this because I am addicted to their pizza) helpful and a real pleasure to do business with. Their employees help create new products based on their interactions and feedback from customers. This organization is a picture perfect example of a corporate-driven culture of innovation that has been drilled down into small business terms.
The knowledge expressed in this series is applicable to all businesses, big or small. Through creative and ingenious ways, your small business can create a culture of innovation that not only grows your organization but has fun while doing so.
OPIC has hosted Expanding Horizons around the country for the past six years. More than 1,300 small businesses from 39 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have attended. Last years workshops in Orange County, Calif. and Miami drew record attendance.
