Innovation is the lifeblood of any organization. Therefore, it is important that we have a good definition of operational innovation. Innovation can be applied to many things. This is often the term for a new product, but it can also be used to describe new processes, methods, or inventions.

Here are four essential ingredients for a definition of innovation:

1. Something new

Everybody likes something new. How many ads have you seen that use the words “new and improved”? We all want the latest and greatest products and ways of doing things. The novelty, however, is only the beginning.

2. Better than there is

New for the simple fact of being new has little value. It also needs to be improved. A new and improved toothpaste should have a new That increases your perceived value. A new office procedure should do better than the old method.

3. Economically viable

Does it make or save money? If not, it should not be implemented. If the new and improved toothpaste generates more sales which in turn generates more profit, it is a profitable addition. If your new office procedure improves workplace efficiency and therefore saves labor costs, it makes the organization more profitable.

4. Generalized appeal

The first 3 elements are very important and are even related to it. However, there must be a basic appeal to the new innovation. If not, it will not be sold. If your new and improved toothpaste has a licorice flavor, it may have very limited appeal. It is new and improved. Licorice can be even a cheaper flavor to implement than any other. If nobody wants it, then it is not a true innovation.

The same would apply to your change of office. If it requires an action that no one in the office likes, then it is doomed from the start.