In the first of a three-part series, Nick Humphrey
considers innovation, what it is, why it is important and why he
believes lawyers have generally been such poor
innovators.
Innovation is crucial for modern law firms, but it is often
misunderstood. The concept involves finding a new way of doing
something. It is about:
- using fresh ideas to create more effective processes, more
dynamic products or better ways to deliver your current
services;
- 'thinking outside the box' and challenging the accepted
way of doing things; and
- lateral problem solving and maverick thinking.
Innovation means more than simply generating a new idea. It is
the ability of the organisation to convert the new idea into value
and ensure that the value is utilised throughout the different
parts or divisions of the organisation.