Asked... “Avoid duplicate work”

Yurda Burghardt, Managing Director of Kerkhoff Experts, on optimal innovation culture.

Kerkhoff Experts boss Yurda Burghardt: “Innovation does not come from individual geniuses, but mostly from the combination of existing ideas and skills.”

Ms. Burghardt, what forms of feedback do organizations use to gain momentum?

Yurda Burghardt: People (and therefore employees) have a strong need for individualization. They want to get involved and network. An essential prerequisite

A corporate culture that allows and encourages this is essential. The best communication channels and tools are of no use if employees are not involved in decisions and feedback opportunities and information is not transparent. Sharing knowledge is an essential aspect of becoming flexible and agile as an organization - this "leading knowledge" will determine the economy of tomorrow. I can also observe with our customers: Those who create incentive structures for the transfer of knowledge have an advantage. Studies show that employees today spend more than half of their time searching for information and internal coordination - and thus "only" do their actual tasks in the remaining time. In my opinion, speed is achieved when communication is channeled, duplication of work is avoided and work is carried out closely and across departments.

Keyword innovation culture: Where do we need to lend a hand in the age of networking?

Developing an innovative culture is perhaps the most difficult challenge a company can face. At the same time, it is also the most important task for growing and achieving long-term success in the modern business world. Innovation is not the result of individual geniuses; it is usually the result of combining existing ideas and skills to create something new. That is why all employees are important for this process. Resources such as time, employees and financial means must be available in the company. And you need tools for systematically planning and managing innovations. Defined processes make it possible to turn concepts into marketable products. The most important basis, however, is visionary leadership that recognizes the benefits and value of innovation and actively supports it. This creates an environment in which people can work creatively and awaken a spirit of development.

Thank you for the interview!

Industry Magazine 06/2019