While in a Graduate School of Banking class on Effective Use of Technology, I discussed the future of technology, such as the Apple Watch. Along with the future C-Suite leaders that were in attendance, I talked about the fact that there was still no “killer” watch app for banking. Other than notifications that come to […]
Category Archives: Innovation
Small Innovations Matter… Even in the Bathroom
We’ve all seen it–a wall-mounted, liquid soap dispenser, dripping onto the counter of a public restroom. Regardless of the preventative efforts of engineers, the dispenser leaks. At least, there always seem to be drips (or even puddles) of unused soap on the counters. I figured, if it were possible to prevent this additional soap from […]
The Intersection of Security and Innovative Problem Solving
I have new insurance. It’s not always fun changing insurance companies, but when you take a new job, it’s often part of the drill. One of the manual issues involved with changing your insurance is dealing with prescriptions. You may have two refills left with your current insurer, but the new insurance company wants their […]
Green Means Go … Except When It Doesn’t
I love to experience innovative things. Recently, I parked my car at the William P. Hobby Airport in Houston, and was pleased to see they had installed indicator lights for each parking space. Their goal for the indicator lights is to enable drivers to look down a row of parking spaces and just watch […]
When Innovation is Not Needed …
I pride myself on being an innovative thinker, looking for innovation in every situation. But recently, I learned the hard way that there are times when innovation is not needed or warranted. Let me explain. I recently replaced a double oven in my primary residence. After removing the old oven, I carefully measured the opening […]
How to Innovate From Below …
I talk a lot about innovation and the need for enterprise-wide innovation. As I talk with business leaders, though, I find it interesting that many C-Suite executives don’t consider organization-wide innovation to be a priority. And this is not just an “old school” mentality: I recently spoke with a Gen X executive who stated flat […]
Innovation Fail – Bank Account Opening Fail
I recently moved to a suburb of Houston and decided I would open up a local bank account. I debated whether I needed one; the fact is, having a “local” bank isn’t really as necessary as it once was. But, I figured there would be advantages to having access to local ATMs and in-branch support […]
SockGiving? Creating a Blueprint for Others to Follow
One of the most exciting things I get to do is assist startups. From time to time, I get to talk with energetic young people who have ideas for a new company. If they approach me in the right way, I will make time for them and impart whatever wisdom is appropriate. But sometimes, the […]
How Many Bad Ideas Are You Generating?
“There are no bad ideas.” As a strategic planning facilitator, I say something similar to this at every brainstorming session. Every facilitator does—even though we all know that there are in fact bad ideas. But that label “bad idea” is a misnomer. For example, an idea may not be “bad” per se, just not right […]
How to Use the Special Silver Pen
Last fall, I was facilitating strategic planning for an Atlanta-area nonprofit, and, as usual, there were hotel-provided pens and scratch paper at each seat. I didn’t pay much attention to them, though, as I was busy with my own preparation. About halfway through the first session, however, I needed to write a note, and I […]