Change Signal

Change Lessons from Jugaad Innovation. Simone Ahuja

30 snips
Jan 21, 2026
Simone Ahuja, an innovation strategist and CEO of Blood Orange, champions jugaad, the art of frugal innovation. In an engaging conversation, she highlights how constraints can spark creativity and why many change initiatives stall due to misidentified problems. Simone advocates for smaller, more adaptable experiments that democratize problem-solving within organizations. By shifting focus from resources to mindset, she provides practical tools for leaders aiming to ignite real transformation.
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INSIGHT

Innovation Through Resourceful Constraints

  • Jugaad innovation solves problems using existing resources, making solutions inclusive and scalable.
  • It shifts innovation from elite R&D to many people solving accessible problems.
ANECDOTE

Desert Steadicam Saves The Shoot

  • Dr. Simone Ahuja tells how a makeshift steadicam of pillows, PVC pipe and twine saved a desert shoot in Rana Kutch.
  • The improvised solution let the team finish on time, on budget, and without danger.
ADVICE

Prioritize Frugality For High Value

  • Do prioritize frugality: aim for highest value with the fewest resources rather than cutting quality.
  • Start believing you can create meaningful outcomes without big budgets.
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