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AIROI - Artificial Intelligence Return on Invest: The AI strategy for decision-makers and managers

3 September 2024

Mastering idea scaling: How step 7 works company-wide

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Scaling ideas is often a decisive milestone on the path from a flash of inspiration to sustainable corporate success. Many teams start out full of vigour, but the real trick is not only to develop an idea, but to anchor it throughout the company and allow it to grow. But how does this step 7 really succeed? And how does transruptions coaching help companies to master the scaling of their ideas?

Idea scaling: From the individual idea to the corporate strategy

Most organisations have already gained experience with creativity workshops, but the real challenge begins afterwards: scaling the idea. Scaling ideas means expanding good approaches in such a way that they enrich the entire organisation without increasing fixed costs or effort to the same extent[5][7]. A scalable model can grow without sacrificing efficiency or quality[3].

This shows that idea scaling is more than just an invention - it is a targeted growth process that requires structured methods. Many clients report that they get stuck at precisely this point. There is often a lack of clear processes for turning a good idea into a company-wide endeavour.

Important principles for scaling ideas

In order for idea scaling to succeed, companies should create a few basic requirements. These include standardised processes, modern technologies and an open feedback culture. Scalable solutions are usually digital, can be automated and benefit from economies of scale because the costs per unit decrease while the output increases[1][5].

A common example from the industry: a company develops a new software tool for internal processes. Initially, it is only used by one team, but after a pilot phase and targeted optimisations, the software is rolled out company-wide. Neither support nor development costs increase proportionally because automation and cloud infrastructure enable scaling.

BEST PRACTICE with a customer (name hidden due to NDA contract): A medium-sized company that initially introduced an internal communication platform for employees achieved successful scaling. After six months of pilot operation, the platform was expanded to include additional functions and rolled out to all locations. Integration with existing systems and a clear onboarding strategy for new users were key success factors. This enabled the company to noticeably improve internal collaboration and increase satisfaction - while keeping operating costs constant.

Another example is the introduction of agile methods in product management. Initially, Scrum or Kanban are trialled as a pilot project in one department. After initial successes, the methods are gradually established throughout the company, supported by coaching and digital tools. Scaling is possible because the processes are clearly documented and can be transferred to other teams.

It has also been shown that open innovation processes, such as ideas competitions or collaborative platforms, facilitate the company-wide dissemination of ideas[6]. This allows decentralised teams to participate in further development and drive innovation.

Methods for successful idea scaling

Practice shows that successful idea scaling requires more than just a „good idea“. It requires a structured process, from brainstorming and evaluation to implementation and dissemination[4].

The SCAMPERR method helps teams to systematically develop existing products or processes and adapt them to changing requirements[2]. By asking specific questions, new perspectives and creative solutions can emerge that can then be scaled throughout the company.

A look at the industry: A manufacturer of specialised machinery uses the 6-3-5 brainwriting method to generate innovative product ideas. The best approaches are evaluated in an internal innovation competition and the winning project receives budget for scaling. In this way, development is not ticked off as a one-off workshop, but anchored in the corporate culture as a continuous process[8].

BEST PRACTICE with a customer (name hidden due to NDA contract): A manufacturing company is supported by transruptions-Coaching in the introduction of an idea management system. Initially, managers and employees worked together to collect suggestions for process optimisation. The most promising ideas were piloted, measurable successes were documented and the measures were finally implemented at all sites. The decisive factor was the involvement of employees in all phases and clear communication of the objectives - making scaling a success factor for the entire company.

Another example is the development of e-learning courses for internal training programmes. While traditional classroom training quickly reaches its limits, digital courses can be rolled out to many employees without much additional effort[5]. Scaling is successful because the core product - the course content - is created once and can be used by many.

Practical tips for company-wide scaling

Experience shows: The more transparent and simpler the path from idea to scaling, the greater the acceptance and success. Here are some concrete ideas:

  • Create clear contact persons and responsibilities for scaling.
  • Use digital tools to collect and evaluate ideas and track the progress of their implementation.
  • Rely on pilot projects before rolling out ideas company-wide and learn from mistakes.
  • Involve employees at an early stage to minimise resistance and strengthen commitment.
  • Document processes and successes to facilitate scaling for further projects.

A real-life example: A company in the service sector uses regular surveys to gather suggestions for improvement from employees. The best ideas are tested in regional pilot projects before being introduced as the new standard for all branches. In this way, innovation becomes routine and idea scaling becomes a driver for continuous improvement.

The role of transruption coaching in idea scaling

transruptions coaching offers companies professional support on the path to sustainable idea scaling. The joint process not only teaches methods, but also identifies individual framework conditions and blockages. The aim is to establish scaling as an integral part of the corporate culture.

Typical issues that clients come to coaching with are the search for suitable methods for scaling ideas, overcoming resistance in the team or developing a clear strategy for company-wide implementation. transruptions coaching helps to clearly structure the path from the initial idea to successful scaling and to involve all those involved.

BEST PRACTICE with a customer (name hidden due to NDA contract): A company in the healthcare sector wanted to introduce a new digital patient communication system. Initially, there was uncertainty among the employees because the changeover was perceived as complex. In the accompanying coaching, step-by-step plans were developed together, progress was made measurable and successes were celebrated. As a result, confidence in the new solution grew and scaling went much more smoothly than would have been the case without external impetus.

My analysis

Scaling ideas is not a game of chance, but the result of targeted planning, open communication and a learning organisation. Companies that systematically scale their ideas benefit in the long term from increased efficiency, innovative strength and a stronger market position. The support provided by experienced coaches is a valuable source of inspiration for realising potential and recognising obstacles in good time.

Scalability is not a sure-fire success. It requires the courage to change, the will to continuously improve and the openness to break new ground. Those who understand the scaling of ideas as a strategic process and accompany it accordingly lay the foundation for sustainable growth and future-proof corporate development.

Further links from the text above:

Scalable business models: definition, advantages, 6 tips [1]

4 effective methods of idea generation [2]

Scaling: What does this mean for start-ups and entrepreneurs? [3]

Idea development: From a flash of inspiration to a top idea [4]

Scaling: definition, example + 7 tips [5]

10 effective methods for brainstorming to promote innovation [6]

Scalability in the company made easy [7]

8 tried-and-tested brainstorming methods [8]

For more information and if you have any questions, please contact Contact us or read more blog posts on the topic Artificial intelligence here.

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#compliance #Ethical guidelines #IdeasScaling 1TP5Culture of innovation #Sustainability #Scalability #TransruptionsCoaching 1TP5Corporate culture #Corporate growth #Chains of responsibility

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