Observational skills: eye-openers for innovation

Abstract

Purpose

Observational tools offer the means to introduce new techniques into an organization, to skill individuals in new and different ways of seeing innovation possibilities.

Design/methodology/approach

The Six Looking Glasses method is a tool designed to improve observational skills, using a distinct set of “lenses.” The tool offers a set of perspectives for making insights about the operating environment, which employed repeatedly can enhance observational skills.

Findings

A key lesson to be learned from these three pivotal points in Starbucks’ history is: recognize that observation is the fountainhead from which any and all innovation takes place.

Practical implications

Much talk of innovation, with too little skilled observation, usually remains just talk.””

Originality/value

All strategy and leadership depends on seeing the world as it truly is and imagining its most opportune possibilities and its serious risks. To innovate in this operating environment – its broader culture, its immediate business circumstances and those within its own company – requires the very best observational skills. The Six Looking Glasses provide a good start toward fulfilling that need.

Citation

Gilmore, J. (2017), "Observational skills: eye-openers for innovation", Strategy & Leadership, Vol. 45 No. 1, pp. 20-26. https://doi.org/10.1108/SL-01-2017-0001