We still seem to love the idea of the lone, possibly eccentric, mythical genius who drives innovation from their lab, their garage, or an exotic mountain top, but innovation almost always has social origins. Innovation often emerges from the intersection of different things, different world views, different industries or professions, different ways of thinking. If we are as serious about innovation as we claim to be, then we must be better at mixing diverse things together in inclusive containers.
Thanks to the research of Scott Page, Ron Burt and others, we know that there are very direct lines between cognitive diversity (diversity of thought) and superior decision-making and problem solving.
Having greater diversity of thought involved in a conversation also can make it more difficult, so knowing how to do it well becomes a pretty big opportunity for advantage.
Key takeaways:
• Introduce the concept of cognitive diversity, what it is, and why it matters.
• Review research and examples of how cognitive diversity makes a difference.
• Consider individual and group practices for more effectively leveraging diversity of thought toward greater innovation, improved decision-making and problem-solving.