Innovate Wheel Fishburne

Scott Simon

2 min read

·

12-01-2025

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Angela Fishburne, a prominent figure in the innovation space, has developed a powerful and insightful framework known as the Innovate Wheel. This isn't just another brainstorming technique; it's a structured approach designed to foster creativity, challenge assumptions, and ultimately, drive impactful solutions. Fishburne's methodology emphasizes a holistic view of problem-solving, moving beyond simple linear thinking to encompass a broader spectrum of considerations.

Understanding the Innovate Wheel

At its core, the Innovate Wheel is a cyclical model that guides users through a series of crucial steps. It encourages a deep dive into the problem at hand, pushing individuals and teams to explore diverse perspectives and potential solutions. The cyclical nature emphasizes the iterative process inherent in innovation—a constant refinement and evolution of ideas.

Key Stages of the Innovate Wheel

The Innovate Wheel typically encompasses these key stages:

• Define: This crucial initial step involves clearly articulating the problem. Vagueness is the enemy of innovation. A precise definition ensures everyone is working towards the same objective. This involves thorough research and data gathering to fully understand the problem's scope and impact.

• Ideate: Once the problem is clearly defined, the focus shifts to generating potential solutions. This stage actively encourages brainstorming, leveraging techniques such as mind-mapping and lateral thinking to foster diverse perspectives. Quantity over quality is often emphasized here—the goal is to generate a wide range of ideas, even those initially deemed impractical.

• Evaluate: This critical stage involves critically assessing the viability and potential impact of each proposed solution. This typically involves evaluating factors such as feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and potential risks. Data analysis and rigorous testing are crucial for this stage.

• Refine: Rarely does the first iteration of a solution yield perfect results. The refine stage focuses on iteratively improving the chosen solution based on the evaluation stage. This often involves testing, tweaking, and refining based on feedback and data.

• Implement: Once the solution is refined, the focus shifts towards effective implementation. This involves planning, resource allocation, and execution. Clear communication and collaboration are critical for successful implementation.

• Learn: The Innovate Wheel emphasizes continuous improvement. The final stage involves reflecting on the entire process, analyzing the results, and extracting valuable lessons. This feedback loop informs future innovation efforts, constantly refining the process and improving outcomes.

Fishburne's Legacy

Fishburne's contribution extends beyond the methodology itself. She has actively championed the importance of inclusive innovation, recognizing that diverse perspectives are essential for truly impactful solutions. Her work continues to inspire leaders and organizations striving for a more innovative and creative approach to problem-solving. The Innovate Wheel, therefore, isn't just a tool; it's a philosophy that underlines the cyclical and iterative nature of successful innovation. Its adaptability makes it applicable across numerous industries and contexts. It remains a highly relevant and effective framework for fostering creativity and driving meaningful change.