A Systems Approach

If we all did the things we are capable of doing we would literally astound ourselves.
Thomas Edison

Michael Gelb has found a niche as a writer. A few posts ago, I wrote about his book, How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci (Dell). Today I would like to introduce you to another of his books, Innovate Like Edison (Dutton).

Thomas Edison was an amazing American inventor to whom we owe the incandescent light bulb. What is often not appreciated about Edison is that he not only produced the first practical working light bulb, he also devised a complete system for bringing it to the consumer. The system included means for funding, producing, distributing, monitoring, marketing and continuously improving his invention. He did the same with the phonograph and moving pictures, launching the modern entertainment industry.

Michael Gelb defines and explains five competencies for Edison’s method of innovation in his book:

1. Solution-centered Mindset – a means of organizing perceptions of the world to allow you to move forward with a well defined focus and engaging the enthusiasm of others in supporting you.
2. Kaleidoscopic Thinking – an ability to consider multiple projects and problems from many vantage points simultaneously, allowing you to make creative connections and discover patterns and relationships that led to solutions.
3. Full-spectrum Engagement – a method of balancing work and play that enhances the productivity of a team.
4. Master-mind Collaboration – the ability to create an environment where people come together ‘in an expanding framework of positive, creative energy.’
5. Super-value Creation – this is that pragmatic sensibility to hone creativity with practicality, that is, meeting the needs of consumers and assuring a market for inventions.

Reading through the chapters on each of these competencies, I was inspired to develop and apply each in my own life. I trust you will be too.

Judy Warner