3 traps that stop elegant innovation cold

Matthew May said "Mention innovation and people immediately think technology. The truth is that business innovation is about value, not gadgetry. But the pace of technological progress sweeps us off our feet and we get all caught up in the gizmo, losing sight of the why behind the what. People don’t want products and services. They want solutions to problems."

When searching for a solution, Matthew advises us to watch out for these 3 traps that "stop elegant innovation cold:"

1. Swinging for fences. This is the “homerun or bust” trap, which invariably destroys a strong batting average over time. It carries with it huge risk, usually accompanied by high cost.
2. Getting too clever. This is the “bells and whistles” trap, which can easily get out of control in an effort to outdo competitors. It carries with it the danger of complexity and customer alienation.
3. Solving problems frivolously. This is the “brainstorm” trap, which is misguided creativity far afield from company direction. It’s a symptom of poorly defined work, and fraught with waste. There’s a reason we call it an organization.