Question

Razeghi (2008) states "In order to succeed at innovation, do not focus on being creative; rather focus on solving problems. Committing to innovation in the absence of a well-defined problem is like a surgeon committing to surgery in the absence of a diagnosis. Bloody failure is imminent" (p. 21). Discuss the role that problem-solving plays in relationship to innovation. Why does Razeghi (2008) believe that individuals should not focus on creativity? Do you agree or disagree with the author's assessment? Why or why not? Please provide examples.

Answer 1

The role that problem-solving plays in relationship to innovation is innovation provides solutions to solve a problem in a way that has not been already prevalent or existing. Innovation is creating solutions that are better than existing solutions and more effective in terms of performance, cost and utility for the target segment.

Razeghi (2008) believes that individuals should not focus on creativity as the innovations designed need to be practical and relevant to customer needs. Innovations that are extremely radical or developed for creative satisfaction than focusing on customer needs or problems have less chance to succeed.

I agree with the author's assessment as innovation that is done considering a particular situation or customer need has more value and significance as it is more beneficial since it solves problems in ways that are better than the existing solutions or solutions that are not feasible or applicable easily.

For example, innovation that are done for space travel are immensely creative and done with the goal of doing research, developing future capabilities and evolving technological skills. But the more successful innovations will be towards developing renewable energy solutions that have less environmental impact and are relevant in several aspects to more number of customers or individuals. It can provide benefits to larger number of communities , solutions to modern issues like rising costs, limited resources and using technology to reduce harmful impact on environment in a sustainable way.