HBR On Leadership
How to Manage Breakthrough Innovation
Sep 11, 2024
Astro Teller, the Captain of Moonshots at X, Alphabet's R&D engine, discusses the art of managing breakthrough innovation. He shares his approach to decision-making in uncharted territories and offers insights on selecting impactful projects that also drive sustainable business. Teller emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset and humility in fostering creativity within teams. He also explores the transformative potential of generative AI, likening its advancements to the historical significance of electricity, and how it can address global challenges.
30:16
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Quick takeaways
- A structured approach to innovation allows teams to filter ideas effectively, assessing their potential for significant breakthroughs and business viability.
- Fostering a culture of fearlessness, humility, and teamwork in teams promotes creativity and enhances the chances of successful innovation.
Deep dives
The Innovation Process
A structured approach to innovation is essential for managing novel projects without an existing framework. A key method involves keeping a broad range of ideas in the initial phase and then rigorously filtering them to identify potentially groundbreaking technologies. This involves asking probing questions early on to assess if the idea could lead to a significant breakthrough beneficial for the world while also sustainable for the company. By maintaining this dual focus, teams can quickly identify whether an idea is promising or not, allowing them to pivot or halt projects in a timely manner.
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