PMcrunch

Innovation has become quite a buzzword in recent years. It is an important asset for organizations and teams that have it, and is something to be sought after by those who do not. Many think that the occurrence of innovation in an organization is directly proportional to the feeling of security in that organization. Let’s explore.

Security equals Innovation?

When I think of security, I think of a number of different ways that people can be secure.

1. If someone is afraid of being fired, they obviously will not feel secure. Therefore, the absence of fear of being fired would be the more secure situation.
2. In today’s world, many would say there really is no security. While this theory is not really true all the time, the definition of security surely has changed.
3. We make our own security. In the mobile work force, someone who has many options enjoys a strong sense of security.
4. In bureaucratic environments, security tends to be derived from the system, and rests with its continuity. The bureaucracy seeks to protect itself into the future, and anything that threatens it is not accepted.

It seems to me that security is a two edged sword. We as individuals all seek security, and yet in many ways it is inherently unattainable. It also has good and bad sides. Thus, it would be hard for me to say that the level of security within the organization is proportional to the level of innovation in the organization. If you disagree, think of a bloated government bureaucracy in which people feel very secure about their jobs, but demonstrate very little innovation – or motivation.

Where Security and Innovation meet

I think we can find the place where security and innovation meet, and I think it is where security comes from within. Perhaps this is another way of saying that secure individuals can be very innovative. Is that true? I have not done a study, but I have a hunch it is. The reason why is that secure individuals are less afraid to stick their necks out. They are less afraid to do something different, or to try something. They are not afraid to make mistakes. And that’s what innovation requires! Attracting secure people to your project team – and avoiding others – is the key.

Innovation sometimes equals Security

I am not a believer that job security and innovation are directly proportional. I think that is a blanket rule that goes way too far, and falsely rewards types of job security that I believe are actually damaging to innovation. Innovation is a result of secure confident people with lots of options, taking action with a low level of fear of repercussion.

____________________________

John Reiling, PMP

Project Management Training Online

Lean Six Sigma Training Online