The Right Team for Innovation: Ensuring Success Through Effective Composition and Development, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

The HCL Review Podcast

Abstract: The article explores the research behind designing effective innovation teams and provides practical guidance for leaders to leverage team composition and continuous learning to maximize the success of organizational change initiatives. It highlights key factors such as diversity of perspectives, complementary skill sets, psychological safety, autonomy, strategic alignment, and champion support as crucial characteristics of high-performing innovation teams. The paper then outlines specific approaches for structuring innovation teams, including conducting skills inventories, fostering cross-functional integration, balancing experience and fresh perspectives, and empowering teams with autonomy. Additionally, the article discusses the importance of developing a culture of continuous learning through experiential opportunities, challenging established mindsets, facilitating knowledge sharing, and promoting adaptive leadership skills. The principles are applied across various industry contexts to illustrate their nuanced implications. Overall, the article underscores the deliberate focus required to assemble and sustain innovation-oriented teams that can thrive against a dynamic business landscape.