In a startup’s early days, innovation is the name of the game. But once companies gain size and recognition, they go into maintenance mode, unwilling to let new approaches take hold. When the CEOs of these larger corporations do seek innovation or change, they expect a seamless execution.

Here’s the problem: There is no such thing as flawless execution of innovation. Change and disruption, by their very nature, are messy endeavors. If an idea makes perfect sense, someone’s already done it.

With the right team, space, and methodology, even massive corporations can create something truly unique. But how are these essential elements acquired?

Thinking outside the boxes

Vijay Govindarajan, former chief innovation consultant at General Electric, looks at innovation as a series of three boxes: one for managing right now, one for forgetting yesterday, and one for creating tomorrow. Large companies get trapped in the first box, unable to realize that they have the resources to drive the second and third. All they need is a nimble mindset.

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