There has been discussion on the Productivity Futures LinkedIn group this week discussing whether productivity and innovation are natural enemies or bedfellows.

Of course I chimed in – well, I can’t resist – and my view is that real productivity development – revolutionary rather than evolutionary – is unlikely without innovation.  Innovation can transform productivity.

Tor Dahl reminded the group that productivity is about doing the right things in the right way 100% of the time.  Innovation can change what we do – and how we do it.  Systematic approaches to improvement – and the standardisation that goes with them – ensure we do the right things ALL the time.

Any of you who want to try to run your organisations without innovation please inform me – I want to stay clear of investing in you.