innovation

Our approach to innovation and transformation
· Innovation should happen all over the organization · We cherish our entrepreneurial/intrapreneurial culture [but does everyone know that?] · Success should be communicated, acknowledged and rewarded · We are the innovation leader amongst SA libraries · Small innovations can produce big results · ICT is the principal driver of innovation but not a necessity for change · Ongoing experimentation is needed – perpetual beta is the modern style · We are open minded and constantly on the lookout for trends and opportunities · Good project management is a prerequisite for implementation · Innovation is rewarded via the performance management system · Informal motivation such as conference attendance and other opportunities · Innovation should lead to transformation · Our approach resonates with the UP position: //Being innovative is a state of mind that allows one to see opportunities that have not yet been noticed by others. Innovation may occur in any sphere and is therefore, like quality, a cross-cutting characteristic that will be encouraged throughout the University.//  __The following concerns need our attention __  · <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Some people think innovation is the task of the e-unit only and some wait for them to do it · <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">The Systems and e-units combined should have regular discussions with front line units to determine their needs for which a digital solution is the answer and help them resolve it for a bottom-up approach · <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Some people are scared and reluctant, e.g. scared to intrude on others’ territory (could that also be because the others are territorial?) · <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Resistance to change is still too prevalent · <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Comfort zones [your comfort zone should include the internet, a computer and change] · <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">We should plan more carefully in advance in order to know the consequences (particularly as they apply to colleagues who are part of the solution) · <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Blaming: poor planning resulting in poor early buy-in is sometimes viewed as resistance to change · <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">It is not necessary for everyone to be involved in the first stages but once a decision has been made implementing innovative practices/products cannot be the choice of the individual or small group · <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Focus in stead of grasshopper style