Innovation management is not a one size fits all, it is a tailored coat. A line manager has a different approach to innovation challenges than the director of the company. What are the differences? The Leading Effectively website has prepared a brief overview defining specific approaches to innovation in terms of different levels of management.
The Self-Leader - Creator
At this level, the leader may not have direct reports, but rather he is an example for members of the project team. His approach to innovation is often based on generating creative ideas and on his ability to efficiently utilize the diverse personalities of the project team members. The basic trick is to find sources of inspiration and shaping new approaches. By using good practices from other sectors you may find the most suitable solutions to engage customers and other stakeholders. Try to explore many databases.
The Leader of the group - Facilitator
Line managers and team leaders need different skills. They need to know such innovation processes as Design Thinking, Creative Problem Solving, and more. But even this is not enough. They need to be more than just capable project managers or team leaders. The position also requires skills that help them to successfully walk their teams through processes. In order for innovation to take root and spread further in the organization they also must have access to resources outside the department.
The Leader of Management - Advocate
When one leads others who are themselves leaders, his key role is to promote and protect the team from disturbing influences and threats that could hamper innovation. At the same time he has to ensure constructive cooperation with other challenges and projects in the company.
The Head Position - Director
Just below the top of the organizational structure of the company the leader has to effectively direct innovation at the same time addressing conflicts in the allocation of resources. At this level, the leader initiates strategic and structural changes that bridge the existing processes. His goal is to set the tone for the organization that supports an innovative environment by role modeling behavior and encouraging innovative communication.
The leader of the Organization - Master
At the very top of the organization is the leader in the master role, whose key role is to keep the company on target. Above all he has to promote a culture of innovation in which it is feasible to encourage innovative designs over and over again. He must keep in mind the most important essence of the company - its vision.
So where do you belong? What are your daily duties to keep innovation in the company flowing and not disrupting its development?
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