Researching Research
Has anyone researched the effectiveness of research? Sounds funny, but is the true medicine for innovation looking at what has been or what is? Ok, I am not completely daft. I get that the more information we know the better we are prepared for societies projects, such as the boardroom of venture capitalists. However, at what point does knowledge become an hindrance rather than a catalyst for fresh ideas? Afterall, aren’t good ideas researched, great ideas talked about and brilliant ideas just done on the spur of the moment?
Take the iPod dial for example. They call this the genius design. No testing, no what ifs, no evolution…just a solid intuitive round dial. Revolutionary!
I will make the projection that I am more willing to hire someone else to check my innovative ideas before I let it bog me down in the creative process. I want to mnd map beyond the boxed lines!
I know we have researched research; I know we have to research our ideas. However, do you get the point?
-Shanna
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3 Comments, Comment or Ping
Jeremy
I agree in concept – we shouldn’t let our research be so stiflingly formal that it impedes our ability to rapidly innovate. We should, however, be able (and willing) to speed up the research cycle and process drastically. When I think back on the proposals I’ve made in my career, there has been some research created, but it wasn’t done in the academic vacuum or format that our formal education has preached.
May 15th, 2008
Adriana
I get it and like it! I Here at the Berkman conference Zittrain cited some examples (e.g. the Internet) of major innovations without research (I think he meant without consumer research). I think what’s fascinating about the Internet is that the cost to build and try out something new is so low that it undermines a bit the need to research.
Perhaps it’s just about managing so that your research doesn’t completely take over your idea, just like planning or project management should take over, but facilitate it for which you need to really know it.
Adri
May 15th, 2008
Rebekah Peterson
I like this question, thanks for posting. Perhaps the most successful companies are those that are able to balance between conducting enough research to be successful and not too much that they become immobilized.
I wouldn’t say all research is a hindrance though. Researching failed products or projects can give your team the chance to investigate why other products failed and what could be done to reduce the risk of failure in your current project. Also, knowing what other professionals in your field or related field are thinking can be a launching pad for innovation and can spark creativity instead of squash it.
May 15th, 2008
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