We are fast approaching the time when companies realize and are ready to accept the astonishing power of empowering people, and the remarkable changes that can result. Yes, people as a resource for ideas is at the core of a transformed work culture and incalculable financial benefits—as long as we are mindful of the traps.

Like the ideas themselves, there are land mines we can step on. For now, I target two of them. And while you may find my remarks applicable to all ideas, everyone, and any organizational level, here I focus on ideas from hourly employees, all visual thinkers in the making.

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