None of us would doubt that these are truly tough times for so many businesses. As well as functioning as best as possible – if that’s even an option – there is no doubt that different processes and procedures are likely to be in use. Yet, when circumstances do change, and a degree of normality begins to return, how many businesses might simply revert to ‘doing again what they did before’?

Research and Development

A business guru was hired by a company many years ago to chivvy up their management processes. During a seminar, he suggested that R&D departments basically weren’t worth the money spent on them! When a manager from that function took issue, a senior leader who was present asked a long-time employee of the company for key innovations he remembered coming through Research and Development.

Pause; and then: ‘Well I’ve only been here 35 years so I don’t remember any’. Laughter: an exaggeration of course (we hope) but the point being made is that ideas are not found in only one department.

Finding those germs of an idea

As working practices change dramatically, it’s vital to take time to find out how they might have improved the way a business functions. This might be where an R&D team, if one exists, does come into their own. By using this new situation, and the creative ideas that it raises, effective changes can be made to functions and processes for the future.

As to the ideas themselves, the current ways of operating might give employees time to think back to those germs of an idea they once had. Revisiting these, and actually having the time to think them through, can turn staff into differently productive entities.

Especially if they know each suggestion will be properly considered; none will be rejected out-of-hand. If they also understand that their ideas don’t have to be in a fully ready-to-function state. They can simply be something to be worked on; such a mindset also provides more confidence to make ‘How about…’ suggestions.

As Australia’s leading business advisory service, turning the possible into the tangible is something we regularly investigate with our clients. Talk to us about what this might bring to your business…