As business paradigms have shifted in the 21st century to become more global, organizations themselves are also becoming leaner and more streamlined. Somewhat paradoxically, these smaller companies are, in many instances, actually operating in larger markets than the bigger businesses of last generation. To keep up, organizations have had to become more efficient. This is a process that relies on one resource – innovation.
Today, executives chase innovation like a white whale. However, its status as a corporate buzzword has made it difficult to pin down exactly what innovation means, much less how companies can find it or train for it. The good news is that it's possible to create online courses and modify your company's training regimen to maximize employee innovation – and it starts with your management.