The Real Key to Breakthroughs
How Does Your Organization Harness a Culture of Innovation? We often talk about innovation—brainstorms, ideas, processes, and technology—but the reality is that real innovation only happens when it’s embedded deeply in an organization’s culture. Tools and processes are helpful, but they’re not the drivers of innovation. It’s the people that make the difference.
In my 20 years of experience in product development and growing manufacturing companies, I’ve come to a mature understanding: It’s not the tools or processes that truly matter. It’s the culture—the people who make up that culture.
Creating an innovative culture starts with embracing the people in your organization. How do you engage them, make them feel part of the journey, and fulfill their potential? This is no easy task. Innovation is not about cutting costs or implementing tools; it’s about developing a culture where people are encouraged to contribute, engage, and grow.
Innovation Is About People, Not Tools
I’ve had the opportunity to learn from some of the greatest leaders in the industry and read several books on lean manufacturing, innovation, and the Toyota Way. Many of these sources focus on the tools and processes used to drive efficiency—whether it’s eliminating waste, refining operations, or streamlining communication. But these are surface-level improvements.
They don’t get to the heart of what truly drives innovation within an organization.
The most powerful insights come from subtle comments in these resources, where they mention how the real value of these tools is in listening to people, saying “yes” to their ideas, and involving them in the conversation. Tools and processes should serve the development of people, not just the company.
Why People Are the Key to Innovation
Bob Chapman’s book Everybody Matters emphasizes this reality: people are the key differentiator. Businesses should take care of their people, and in turn, they will drive innovation and growth. Similarly, Jim Collins’ book Good to Great outlines that the key to building a successful organization lies in “Stage 5 Leadership”—getting the right people on the bus, and instilling disciplined behavior across the team. This, again, speaks to the importance of a strong cultural foundation.
When it comes down to it, how we engage and develop people is what makes the difference in driving true innovation. Whether your organization is focused on developing new products, delivering services, or growing the business, the one factor that differentiates successful organizations from the rest is people.
The Culture of Innovation Starts with Listening
At Big Rocks Engineering, we strive to create a culture that listens, engages, and develops people to foster breakthrough innovations. By focusing on the people behind the products, we aim to empower organizations to unlock their true potential and drive real, lasting change.
Is your organization ready to embrace a culture of innovation?
Contact us today to discover how we can support your success.
About the Author
Mike Hill is the founder of Big Rocks Engineering, with over 20 years of experience in product development and manufacturing. His leadership is rooted in the belief that true innovation comes from fostering a culture that values and engages people. With a background in physics and aerospace defense, Mike brings a unique perspective to helping organizations create breakthrough products and drive growth. Connect with him on Linkedln.
