| FROM: NOV-DEC 2008 ISSUE | |
BY ANTHONY ARIGANELLO, CPA (DELAWARE), FCGA, PRESIDENT AND CEO, CGA-CANADA |
The route to innovation and business success is not always an easy one to chart or to replicate. A brilliant idea could make it to the front pages of the business press, or end up in the dustbin of history. It all depends on many competing and sometimes mysterious factors.
But experts advise that most breakthrough ideas that make it into the market are driven forward by hard work and a healthy dose of inspiration and passion. Take the Ballard hydrogen fuel cell concept as a case in point. The recent passing of company founder and visionary Geoffrey Ballard reminds us that even brilliant ideas can take many years to see the light of day.
The Burnaby-based company that Geoffrey Ballard founded in 1983 led the way in the development of hydrogen fuel cell systems for cars and buses. But despite rising gas prices and concerns about global CO2 emissions, the fuel cell concept is still far from being in the market mainstream. Geoffrey Ballard knew his idea could take decades to mature, but he had the commitment to stick with it, and today Ballard Power continues to press on with its development of innovative technology.
For companies and entrepreneurs looking to stimulate creativity and “breakthrough thinking” in their enterprises, here are some tips from the experts. First, make time for innovative thinking and brainstorming by formally setting aside time for creativity. When people are so busy they are consumed by meeting everyday demands it is almost impossible to think “outside the box.”
Next, build diverse thinking and diverse approaches into your organizational culture. Don’t always look for more of the same when making hiring decisions or developing business strategies. Diversity by its very nature encourages new paths of thought and new approaches to old problems.
Always be persistent. If good ideas strike but seem too complex or time-consuming to bring to fruition, don’t lose heart. Sometimes the best ideas take the most time to mature. And sometimes the timing just isn’t right.
And finally, always believe in yourself and in your vision. Remember that inspiration and perseverance – both in good measure – can pave the path to success.
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