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Organizational Innovation
About
Innovation Network
- O r g a n i z a t i o n a l _ I n n o v a t i o n -
Padi Selwyn
One of the key factors to fostering innovation in the work place is the creation of a learning environment. The better informed and trained employees are, the more valuable creative contributions they can make. Although many American businesses say "our employees are our greatest asset," it is surprising what a poor track record we hold in investing in those assets.
The majority of non-technical training in the US is focused on managers. Yet, in these times of continuous change, it is critical that each employee at every level be prepared to contribute creative ideas and work more independently. Only training can provide the foundation to keep American companies competitive and innovative.
Not surprisingly, training improves productivity. A study by James Rauch of the University of California at San Diego ranked several American cities by the average level of education of their work forces, then compared their productivity. He found that for every additional year of schooling, the productivity was 2.8% higher. Better educated workers perform better.
At 3M, employees are encouraged to continue their education with training offered at all levels. Training programs usually begin with executive level leaders and work through the organization, with many employees taking advantage of an extensive offering of internal classes as well as community and university level courses. Problem solving techniques and creativity training are regularly taught as part of 3M's team building classes.
At R.J. Reynolds Research and Development Group (winner of the first World Class Innovator award), they budget a minimum of 75 hours per year per employee for training with additional hours available on an as-needed basis. Their policy is that no employee will be refused training for lack of funds in any department within the group.
The creation of a learning environment stimulates creativity by keeping employees interested and motivated by their work. It enhances self-esteem because at the very heart of training is the tacit message communicated from management to the employees: "You are important. You are worth investing in. We believe in you." That is precisely the attitude needed to instill confidence, provide motivation and enrich life on the job -- all crucial to encouraging and enhancing creativity.
Despite studies by the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD), demonstrating that for every $1 spent on training, $3 in new economic activity is generated, the message is still not getting through to enough decision makers. Training is crucial to the health and success of every organization. It is de riguer for the *innovative* organization's future.
Padi Selwyn is a speaker, trainer and consultant in the area of innovation in business and creative problem solving. She is the co-author of "Living Your Life Out Loud" and can be reached at 707-829-2641.