In Built to Innovate Ben Bensaou has provided a thorough and engaging introduction to the innovating engine and the importance of involving everyone in the company in both executing and innovating. The examples used throughout are fascinating stories that help us see what these concepts look like in real organizations.
Most companies naturally focus on the execution engine, but unfortunately, overlook the need to constantly innovate. Through the book he teaches the what, who, and how of establishing a well functioning innovating engine. Specifically he identifies the three key processes involved in innovating, the three key roles, and a seven step process for creating innovative ideas.
The author emphasizes that many companies will seek to innovate in the midst of crisis. If your business is in a difficult place that will require new ideas for creating value for customers and/or the business, then certainly, Built to Innovate can provide a framework and process for changing how your company approaches innovation. But Bensaou emphasizes that the best time to build the innovating engine is before times get tough. Given the pace of change across all industries, every business should be exploring how to strengthen their innovation capabilities, and Built to Innovate is a great place to start.