I found Dr. Saquet’s comments to be very insightful.  His delineation between incremental innovation and transformational innovation was particularly relevant.  Innovation is a much kicked-about term that while popular and hip, is unfortunately largely not understood.  The idea of qualifying it is excellent in my opinion and it speaks to a larger strategic view of activity.  Dr. Saquet also seemed to suggest that innovation is something that can be studied and to some degree taught, but in practice can’t really be controlled or “bottled.”  His descriptions of “strange people” operating in the boundaries of an organization were both amusing and, I feel, accurate.  There are some things in life that can be encouraged, sought after, and to some degree nurtured or cultivated, but ultimately are wild things that must be allowed to run by instinct.  They can be chased, but not leashed.  Innovation may be one of those things…

From his comments, I feel that the best way to achieve innovated practices is not to try to innovate, but to create an environment in which innovation can occur…and then let it run.  And on the “kindler, gentler business” theme, if you look at the few number of companies who make it priority 1 to operate ethically and be good citizens, you’ll notice they tend to have strong balance sheets.  Those two things aren’t disconnected.  Much like innovation, I think the best way to succeed is not to try to succeed, but to be the best people you can and do the best work you can...and success follows.