What is a vision? Why is it important? How is it developed? These questions are answered within the context of innovation and the innovative era that we now live in.
A vision is a scenario that represents where an organisation aims to be in the future. It should be clear and concise, so that every member of staff can see where the organisation aims to be. It may be as simple as a one page diagram.
Traditionally a vision has been important because it provides a reference point that allows an organisation to set its strategic aims and objectives, and develop as required. Today a vision is still important for that reason but it also has a time critical factor. This is because every sector within society will see a rapidly increasing pace of change. Those organisations that fail to envisage that change will become ineffective, inefficient, and probably irrelevant. Those organisations that envisage, and implement, better solutions will survive and thrive.
The leaders in innovation have bold visions for their innovation attempts: radical innovations that aim to disrupt the way the world works.
Just over one hundred years ago all of the following achievements were thought to be very unlikely or "impossible", and in some cases not even envisioned, by the average person. Even some experts of the time thought that these things were impossible. Benefits: Fantastic Achievements of the Last 100 Years
Reflect on this: Which is best, best practice or innovation?
Today's "best practice" will not be the best solution tomorrow, because there will be a better solution arising from innovation. This solution will probably arise from an organisation that has a vision to deliver an innovative solution.
Despite the concise simplicity of a vision, its development requires careful consideration and comprehensive research.
The development of a vision should make you think about the organisation, its purpose, and its relevance in the future. Its future relevance should be contemplated within the context of science, technology, innovation, the environment, and society. For a business, the impact from innovative competitors and disruptive innovations should be critically evaluated.
Consider giving everyone in your organisation an opportunity to participate in the following tasks:
» Performing an organisational SWOT analysis
» Research into the future
» Contributing to the development of a vision, for the future of the organisation
The research should include future developments within your sector, and any other sector that might have a significant impact on your organisation. You will need to develop a robust vision of the future if disruptive innovation is your intention. This means the research should result in an accurate, and relevant, prediction of the future.
This knowledge will allow you to make well informed decisions, and to develop a valid vision for your organisation.
Leadership has a fundamental role to play in setting the vision. A leader has an ability to set a vision for the organisation, or at least contribute to one with the assistance of colleagues. They also have an ability to inspire people. This does not mean just making an inspirational speech or presentation; it means having a sustained commitment to, and a genuine belief in, the vision.
Finally, remember that your vision must be relevant in a future context!
For examples of potential future developments see the Innovation Future Gallery.
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Tue 6 Apr 19:24:37 BST 2021