In chapter 5 we mention the Fidelity innovation center in Boston which we visited when doing research for the book. It’s a dedicated, high specification suite through which senior mangers, customers and stakeholders pass regularly, to see and experience the latest technology ideas the Insurer is working with. I recently had the privilege to visit a similar facility in Madrid operated by a large Spanish bank and I have also spent a little time with the staff from the DHL Innovation Center .
These companies are investing in innovation seriously. The buildings are working ‘laboratories’ for adoptive innovation and display showcases for that work. They are testament to the fact that evangelism (the second E in STREET) really matters – our innovation ideas must be thoroughly and professionally socialized amongst decision makers if they are to take hold.
What does your innovation center look like? Some are back room operations – only for internal use only while others are front-of-house, designed for customer experience. Let us know about it – better still, send us pictures to post here (but please ensure you can give us permission to show them)