Innovation projects are essential for driving growth, but they must support the overall strategy to be truly effective. A data-driven approach ensures that the best projects are selected and prioritized within the broader innovation portfolio. During project execution, Agile/Scrum Backlog Prioritization proves highly effective. Originally from software development, this method allows teams to prioritize tasks based on business value and stakeholder input, enabling quick adaptations and efficient resource allocation. Tools like Jira or Trello, along with daily standups, keep diverse, cross-functional teams aligned, focused, and agile throughout the innovation process.

One of the most powerful tools I have used is a simple exercise at the kickoff or at an early work session. I give everyone a slip of paper and have them write down what a TABLE is. Immediately they try to guess whether I mean furniture, databases, discussion topics...Is there a trick? Is it an acronym they should know? When we read them out, everyone is conscious of how words (and acronyms) mean different things based on context. Then I ask for examples related to our work. This primes everyone to listen for, and ask about context. It helps start on the right foot, bridging between different disciplines, cultures, genders, and reduces the disconnects. It makes it safe to ask, "Can you clarify for me?"

Hay varias claves para conseguir involucrar a un equipo multidisciplinar, innovador y motivado. - La trayectoria del líder debe ser atractiva a los ojos del equipo. - La calidad humana del líder debe una de sus principales virtudes. - Si quieres un equipo verdaderamente innovador, el proyecto debe ser disruptivo, tiene que cambiar sustancialmente el estado del arte. - Atrae uno o dos referentes de sectores implicados y otros muchos talentos jóvenes querrán beber y formarse junto a ellos. - Hay que construir un entorno de trabajo que permita la fluidez de pensamiento e interacción, libera los entornos y el tiempo de trabajo. - Ah! Y consigue suficientes fondos para dar tranquilidad a los familiares de aquellos que atraigas....

Open dialogue conversation with the team. Listen to their voices, concerns and ideas. Create an environment of brain storming and idea generation. Be a collaboration bridge between your team and cross functional team to foster their collaboration and leverage workplace relationships.

Demonstrating respect and understanding. Developing a culture of no bad ideas or wrong answers. Celebrating differences and being inclusive. Encouraging positive views and feedback regardless of personal thought.