In today's episode, we unravel the intricacies of change management within the realm of digital transformations. We shine a light on the continuous need for adaptation in the digital landscape and the importance of embracing new technologies to maintain a competitive edge. Change management can be as daunting as it is necessary, especially when digital advancements happen at a breakneck pace.Ketan Jahagirdar shares his extensive experience as a specialist in program management and champion of complex multi-year transformation programs. Currently, he serves as one of the Directors of Product Management at Sopheon, and his history includes founding RoI Blueprints. With over two decades in the field, Ketan brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights on driving organizational change and harnessing digital innovation for business growth."Digital transformation... honestly, you can't stop evolving in your journey." - Ketan JahagirdarToday on Innovation Talks:•      Digital transformation is a continual journey, not a one-time event.•      Technology moves rapidly, turning state-of-the-art systems into antiques in a decade.•      Two types of digital transformation: business model flips and process rewiring to eliminate analog methods.•      Companies, especially in insurance and healthcare, still have significant opportunities for digital evolution.•      The most formidable challenge in transformation is overcoming entrenched belief systems with irrefutable facts and evidence.•      Leadership and having a strong core team are crucial for effectively addressing skepticism and orchestrating change.•      Having the people responsible sign off on the plan ensures commitment and belief in the project.•      For a digital transformation to be successful, organizations must present a compelling case with robust data and realistic scenarios that show the risks clearly.Resources Mentioned:- AI and RPA (Robotic Process Automation) technologies- Proofs of concept (PoCs) for validating changesGuest Contact Information:- Connect with Ketan Jahagirdar on LinkedIn- Reach out via Sopheon's corporate platformReady to Transform Your Innovation Strategy? If you're a product manager or innovator looking to streamline your processes and turn chaos into control, you won't want to miss this opportunity.  Dive into our exclusive, free eBook on Innovation Ops strategies designed just for you.  Learn the secrets to revolutionizing your approach and achieving success with clarity and precision.  Download your copy today.  Start your journey to becoming an innovation powerhouse now!  This Podcast is brought to you by Sopheon Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

Today's episode explores the critical intersection of talent management and innovation. We delve into how companies can nurture and sustain breakthrough innovation capabilities, particularly through effective talent management strategies. Professor Gina O'Connor unveils some surprising truths about the obstacles and opportunities within large, mature organizations striving to achieve a culture of continuous innovation. Gina O'Connor brings expertise in innovation management, strategic marketing, and corporate entrepreneurship. As a professor at Babson College, she has spearheaded a research program focused on enabling large, mature companies to engage in breakthrough innovation. O'Connor's role in developing new teaching cases, such as her work with W.L. Gore and her book "Radical: How Mature Firms Can Outsmart Upstarts," has profoundly influenced the field. Delving into how organizations can build ongoing capabilities in innovation, her insights are particularly valuable for those grappling with the responsibilities of managing innovation within established corporation contexts. "It's not just about the ideas; it's about the people who bring them to life that make innovation thrive." - Gina O'Connor This week on Innovation Talks:·     Talent management is critical in the seamless execution of innovation, particularly in the discovery, incubation, and acceleration stages.·     Proper innovation management can lead to an organization's sustained competitive advantage through disciplined and actionable insights.·     Managing organizational uncertainty is key in nurturing and leveraging talent effectively within the innovation process.·     Establishing roles within innovation processes, including opportunity people and domain leaders, contributes significantly to successful innovation outcomes.·     An innovation council can orchestrate the strategic innovation function, ensuring alignment across organizational competencies.·     Measuring productivity in innovation requires distinct metrics and evaluation criteria to assess individual and functional performance accurately.·     Ensuring career paths are available for innovators outside traditional management tracks can drive retention and nurture corporate influence.·     Organizations must commit to continuously improving their innovation capabilities and culture to avoid stagnant or regressive practices.  Connect with Gina O'Connor:·     LinkedIn  Resources Mentioned:- "Radical: How Mature Firms Can Outsmart Upstarts," Co-author by Gina O'Connor   This Podcast is brought to you by SopheonThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners like you. For additional information about new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter, where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

In this week’s episode, we dive deep into the complexities of intellectual property and its pivotal role in fostering innovation and business strategy. We delve into what intellectual property entails, its significance in today's digital era, and the heavy process of managing and maximizing its value. Our insightful guest, Rupert Osborn, educates us on the intricate relationship between IP and corporate growth and the shift towards a more open and collaborative approach to innovation. Rupert Osborn is the managing director for Wellspring in the EMEA operation, boasting a substantial track record in consulting, corporate IP, and technology transfer. Kickstarting his career with a research role at ICI, Rupert transitioned into a business and licensing focus before establishing IP Pragmatics. His experience has rendered him an expert in navigating the dense forest of intellectual property, promoting its strategic importance at every innovation stage. "It's not just about protecting your ideas; it's about understanding the landscape, collaborating, and really harnessing the power of your intellectual assets." - Rupert Osborn  This week on Innovation Talks:·     Intellectual property encompasses a vast domain, including patents, trade secrets, and copyright, and is essential for protecting innovative concepts and products.·     Managing and accessing the enormous amount of IP and innovation information is a major challenge, necessitating efficient strategies for valuation and protection.·     The shift towards open innovation and the market pull model highlights the importance of collaboration and partnership in the IP context, especially between startups and established corporations.·     The increasing complexity of IP, especially with the rise of the open-source movement and AI tools, is transforming how companies approach patent searches and licensing.·     Industries have unique relationships with IP; some rely heavily on trade secrets, while others, like pharmaceuticals and electronics, face varying degrees of complexity and criticality in their IP strategy.·     The digital era generated more intricate copyright issues, but it also presents opportunities to leverage patents and copyrights for robust digital infrastructure protection.·     The role of governments in fostering IP education and crafting legislation is vital for maximizing the economic benefits of intellectual assets.·     The future of IP points towards continued evolution, with AI and growing complexity signaling both opportunities and legal challenges.  Connect with Rupert Osborn:·     LinkedIn·     Twitter·     Wellspring website: www.wellspring.com Resources Mentioned:·     OpenAI·     New York Times litigation on content usage, illustrating the broadening scope of IP.    This Podcast is brought to you by SopheonThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

In this week’s episode, we're diving deep into portfolio management. We're joined by Gerard Ryan, an expert in nurturing innovation within companies and masterfully balancing product development projects. Understanding how to prioritize, manage, and evolve product portfolios is critical for any business looking to drive growth and maintain competitive advantage. Gerard provides insights into the 10 key practices ensuring portfolio management success, reflecting on real-world challenges and strategic solutions. Gerard Ryan brings a wealth of experience in the innovation and product development sectors to the table. Having launched a successful company, Prodex, which Sopheon acquired, he is well-versed in the practicalities of bringing new ideas to market and the strategic management of product portfolios. His diverse background in architecture, industrial design, computer manufacturing, and consulting, coupled with his experience across different countries and business units, provides a unique global perspective on the art and science of innovation. "Portfolio management success doesn't happen by accident; it’s the result of deliberate practices, well-established governance, and a culture that fosters innovation." - Gerard Ryan This week on Innovation Talks:• Portfolio management frameworks like ABV and DVF are essential for aligning product development with strategic business objectives.• Cross-functional integration of perspectives is necessary for rounded decision-making in product development.• A strategic shift in the product portfolio should reflect the shifting market demands and sustainability concerns.• "Fewer, bigger, better" should be the focus to streamline and fortify innovation efforts within a business.• Balancing risk with innovation requires constant vigilance and flexibility in assessing and adjusting the portfolio lineup.• Visibility, data governance, and innovation maturity are building blocks for a vibrant, responsive portfolio.• Continuous lifecycle planning and prioritization using strategic frameworks allow dynamic resource allocation.• The creation of a culture that values innovation governance and systematic frameworks is key to securing long-term success. Connect with Gerard Ryan:·     LinkedIn   Resources Mentioned:• ABV Framework• Ideo's DVF Model   This Podcast is brought to you by SopheonThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

In this week’s episode, we delve into the exciting intersection of technology and manufacturing operations. Discussing the future of this rapidly evolving sector, we seize the opportunity to understand how advancements in AI and software are reshaping the landscape. With riveting insights into the challenges and potential of integrating technology into manufacturing processes, we look at the theoretical and practical elements that business leaders and industry professionals should anticipate in the coming years. Our guest, Renan Devillieres, brings a wealth of knowledge from his distinguished career-spanning work with the OECD, involvement in manufacturing, and a track record of founding successful startups. As the CEO of Oss Ventures, Renan leads an organization that's pioneering the fusion of technology with manufacturing, having founded 15 companies and implemented technology in 1,700 factories globally. His visit to Tesla's factory was a defining moment that propelled his passion for incorporating software into manufacturing, highlighting the future path for the industry.  “ Factory workers deserve good SaaS the way developers deserve good SaaS.” - Renan Devillieres This week on Innovation Talks:•              The role of AI and software is becoming central to the manufacturing industry's advancement.•              Hyper-personalization is driving a need for a new approach to economies of scale.•              Startups play four distinct roles in fostering innovation and shaking up traditional manufacturing models.•              Contrasting the idealized visions of Industry 4.0 with practical success stories like Tesla and BYD.•              Factory SaaS represents a shift toward more modern, efficient manufacturing IT systems.•              The potential impact of foundational startups in revolutionizing industries and creating billion-dollar companies alongside ERPs.•              Oss Ventures' mission is to act as a bridge between technology and manufacturing.•              Before facing legal and market challenges, startups like SpaceX and Tesla need to become substantial. Connect with Renan DevillieresLinkedInTwitter   Resources Mentioned:- OSS Ventures: A venture challenging the traditional manufacturing industry by introducing advanced technology solutions.  This Podcast is brought to you by SopheonThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

In this week's episode, I had the privilege of diving into the world of innovation and product development with Alex Adamopoulos, CEO of Emergn. With a focus on improving the way people and companies work, Alex has extensive expertise in helping organizations navigate the complexities of transformation and innovation. Emergn has a 15-year history of successful case studies, making them a valuable resource for companies seeking to enhance their innovation processes. Alex Adamopoulos is a visionary leader and innovator, with a strong track record of helping companies accelerate their ability to execute and deliver successful products and services. With a global business perspective and a passion for removing the barriers to innovation, Alex's insights are invaluable for any organization striving to stay ahead in today's rapidly changing business landscape. "One of the key challenges in innovation is the disconnect between innovation management and product management." - Alex Adamopoulos Today on Innovation Talks:·     The common struggle of large corporations in managing and executing transformation programs, with a 70% to 75% failure rate·     The concept of the "dual mindset" and its impact on organizations, focusing on the disconnect between innovation management and product management.·     The challenge of uncertainty and the growing trend towards making organizations future-proof through an experimental portfolio of potential products and value propositions.·     The critical role of leadership in driving successful innovation, emphasizing the need to embrace risk and failure while maintaining operational discipline.·     Necessary operating models for successful innovation and the importance of evolving into a product-led organization. Connect with Alex Adamopoulos:·     LinkedIn·     Email·     Emergn website   This Podcast is brought to you by SopheonThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

In this week's episode, we have an engaging conversation with Jared Raszewski, the founder of DisSolves. Jared has an impressive journey in the realms of intellectual property, innovation, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and startups. He shares his insights on the product he created and its challenges during its development journey. From pioneering a groundbreaking packaging film to navigating the complexities of product development, Jared offers valuable perspectives on innovation in today's business world. Jared Raszewski is an inspirational figure in the world of entrepreneurship and innovation. He founded DisSolves, a company specializing in an all-natural packaging film that dissolves in water, revolutionizing how powdered products are packaged. Jared's dedication and commitment to overcoming challenges in product development have led to impactful solutions that are reshaping the industry. His expertise and experience continue to drive innovation and sustainability in packaging and product development. "Put whatever you can out there and get feedback as early as possible. The earlier you get it out there, the quicker you can get validation."- Jared RaszewskiToday on Innovation Talks:• DisSolves’ journey from concept to product: Jared Raszewski shares the compelling story of how DisSolves’ evolved from a groundbreaking idea to a tangible, innovative product.• Challenges in scaling up product manufacturing: Jared reflects on the obstacles faced in finding suitable manufacturers and scaling the production process for the innovative packaging film.• The acquisition by GFRP and future plans: Jared discusses the recent acquisition of DisSolves’ and provides insight into their plans for scaling up the commercial release.• Global interest and applications of the packaging film: Jared highlights the global interest in DisSolves’ all-natural packaging film and its potential applications in product packaging across different industries.• The importance of early validation and adaptability: Jared emphasizes the value of early feedback, validation, and iteration in refining and successfully launching innovative products. Connect with Jared Raszewski:·     LinkedIn Resources Mentioned:·     DisSolves·     Hunter IO·     Founder Institute·     Big Idea Ventures  This Podcast is brought to you by SopheonThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

John Mansour is a true leader in the world of product management. He founded Product Management University and has a wealth of experience. His main goal is to refine and define how companies manage and market their products. Leveraging his impressive background, John helps companies raise their product quality. Education is a big passion for him, which is evident in how he mentors professionals from diverse fields. His approach goes beyond the norm, aiming for a complete view of customers that breaks traditional boundaries.In this week’s episode, we're delving into the world of product management, uncovering the essentials behind crafting successful product stories from idea to market. I am joined by John Mansour, a true expert in the field, as we break down the crucial elements of an effective product management process. We get to the heart of customer feedback, market understanding, and the pivotal role of customer discovery in shaping products that genuinely add value.  “Start with value to the customer. If it's not valuable to the customer, nothing else matters.”-             John Mansour Today on Innovation Talks:·     Customer feedback is not just a box to check; the compass guides the entire product management process.·     A consistent and unbiased approach to customer discovery can uncover obstacles and opportunities that aren’t immediately apparent.·     Understanding market and customer needs should always take precedence, serving as the groundwork for product development.·     Even with the influx of technology, the human element of understanding and interpreting customer feedback remains irreplaceable.·     Product managers should continuously evolve their skills, notably in customer communication, to extract the most valuable insights possible.·     Documenting the product management process is one thing; ensuring that it's usable and understood by all stakeholders is another.·     The realms of product management, product marketing, and customer success should converge in perspective to better serve the customer.·     With the increasing complexity of the product management field, a thorough and adaptable educational foundation is more important than ever. Connect with John Mansour:LinkedIn Product Management University This Podcast is brought to you by SopheonThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners like you. For additional information about new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s monthly newsletter, where we share news and industry best practices! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

In this week's episode, we explore the world of innovation excellence in production. Our guest, Huub Rutten, has been at the forefront of innovation in production, working with numerous companies to advance their production methodologies. As companies navigate the increasing complexities of manufacturing and production, Huub Rutten provides valuable insights into the challenges, advancements, and opportunities in this often-overlooked aspect of innovation. Huub Rutten is the co-founder and Vice President of Product Research and Design at Sopheon. With over 20 years of experience in language management and a Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics from Radboud University in the Netherlands, Huub is at the forefront of developing Sopheon’s linguistics and knowledge management technologies. He’s been leading the charge into solutions for innovation and has even created a deep dive course on innovation portfolio management. "You need a strategy; you need a standard way of managing your initiatives. And the programs of initiatives should have a discipline to produce data in a certain way." - Huub Rutten Today on Innovation Talks:·     The link between portfolio management and innovation in production is critical for the overall success of a company's product portfolio.·     Geopolitical changes drive the urgency for modernization and innovation in production processes, making sustainability and independence from external factors more essential than ever.·     The implementation of professional innovation management is urgently required to address the challenges and complexities of production innovation.·     The need for business management principles in manufacturing innovation to effectively drive production process improvements.·     Transparency and collaboration between the product and production sides are crucial to driving innovations that serve the business as a whole.·     Successful production innovation requires a strategic roadmap and disciplined portfolio management to steer initiatives in the right direction.·     The intersection of Industry 4.0 and production processes opens up opportunities for automation, digitization, and smarter manufacturing practices.·     The growing urgency for independence from geopolitical factors is accelerating the need for modernization and innovation in production processes. Connect with Huub Rutten:●     Huub Rutten on LinkedIn   This Podcast is brought to you by SopheonThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

April Dunford is the founder of Ambient Strategy, a consulting firm that helps technology companies grow. She has led marketing, product, and sales teams at companies like IBM, Siebel, and Sybase. April's work is focused on early and growth-stage startups—recognizing that weak positioning can be the difference between success and failure. She also works with large global companies, helping them develop deeper positioning expertise in their product and marketing teams. April's best-selling book, Obviously Awesome, captures her ideas about positioning and provides a methodology that any startup can follow. Today, April is focused on giving back as much as she can. She mentors and advises dozens of startups and is an enthusiastic board member at a handful of startups. April resides in Toronto, Canada, where she enjoys spending time with her kids and small dog in a cabin in the woods. Today, April joins me to discuss positioning for B2B tech companies. She explains how to position a product to the current market, rather than the company’s vision of the future. She discusses what product managers need to understand about their vision and the current market to craft a successful position. She explains why product positioning is most important in B2B and why positioning is different from messaging. We discuss the importance of positioning to improve marketing and sales performance and why you need to continually refine and evolve positioning over time. April also suggests the best way to develop a positioning thesis and calculate the value it will deliver to the customer. “The best way to test positioning if you're B2B and you have a sales team is to take that positioning and translate it into a sales pitch, then test it out on qualified prospects in a sales call.” - April Dunford This week on Innovation Talks: ●     How to explore the best positioning strategy for your company ●     How B2B tech companies can position themselves for their specific market ●     Why weak positioning makes your sales process harder ●     April’s five components of positioning ●     April’s methodology for positioning that any company can follow●     How to test your positioning ●     The benefits of structured sales pitches  Connect with April Dunford: ●     April Dunford’s Website●     Book: Obviously Awesome: How to Nail Product Positioning so Customers Get It, Buy It, Love It by April Dunford●     April Dunford on LinkedIn●     April Dunford on Twitter This Podcast is brought to you by Sopheon Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

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In this week's episode, we delve into the strategic mindset that sets apart the most successful companies from their competitors. Joining us is business leader Dan Adams, who discusses the concept of the "builder mentality," which is essential for long-term competitiveness and growth. We examine how these principles, laid out in Dan's new book and his research-backed survey, impact leadership styles, succession planning, and the understanding of leaders' roles in shaping companies for future success.Dan Adams is a visionary in the field of business growth and leadership, serving as president of the AIM Institute. With extensive experience guiding companies toward innovation and market-driven strategies, Dan has authored the groundbreaking book "Business Builders." Dan's commitment to fostering a builder mentality in leaders has significantly impacted the business landscape, encouraging a new wave of transformative leadership." Our belief is the duty of a senior leader is to leave their business stronger than they found it.” - Dan Adams This Week on Innovation Talks:• A builder mentality drives company growth: Dan Adams highlights that leadership focused on delivering customer value and expanding the company is most effective at driving growth.• Different leaders impact organizations in unique ways: Builders, decorators, remodelers, and realtors—each leadership style has a distinct approach, with builders being the most growth-oriented.• Understanding one's leadership style is key: Adams encourages leaders to use the self-assessment tool on his website to measure their belief system and adopt a builder mentality.• Balancing leadership styles for sustainable growth: While different leaders have varied priorities, a balance of strategies is crucial for organic growth.• CEOs must evolve with their companies: As companies grow, the need for a builder mentality remains critical, making succession planning pivotal.  Connect with Dan Adams:LinkedIn Resources Mentioned:- Book: "Business Builders" by Dan Adams - AIM Institute- Builder Mentality Self-Assessment Tool This Podcast is brought to you by SopheonThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

In today's episode, we're peeling back the layers of organizational innovation with expert Chris Beswick, who introduces a transformative approach to measuring innovation maturity. We're delving into the advanced methodologies that assess where a company stands on the innovation curve and provide actionable steps for progression. With a non-linear and sentiment-based assessment tool called AIM, Chris guides us through the pillars of a comprehensive innovation system and how companies can diagnose their innovation health.Chris Beswick is a pioneer in innovation strategy and a dedicated advocate for changing how organizations approach innovation maturity. As a seasoned thought leader, Chris has implemented his unique assessment model in companies ranging from modest start-ups to global giants, proving that size does not dictate the necessity for innovation introspection. With a keen eye for the interconnectedness of culture, strategy, and leadership, he empowers companies to comprehensively assess and evolve their practices. His passion for data-driven decision-making and the democratization of innovation insights makes him a vanguard in the field."We need to replace traditional assessment answers with statements of truth to reflect where an organization stands in terms of innovation genuinely." - Chris BeswickToday on Innovation Talks:·     Innovation maturity should encompass culture and leadership, not just processes and tools. It's about shifting the focus to address the overarching innovation ecosystem within the organization.·     AIM as a pre-investment analysis tool: Revealing how AIM can be used to assess portfolio companies' potential for driving growth through innovation.·     The five pillars of the innovation system are strategy, processes, governance/management, and culture/leadership, and each has its importance in the innovation journey of a company.·     The necessity of a data-driven approach: Beswick emphasizes relying on hard data rather than subjective opinions to make significant innovation decisions.·     Capturing sentiments of the whole organization: The importance of gaining a holistic view of the company instead of limiting the survey to a select group is vital for an accurate measure of innovation maturity.·     The impact of hidden deltas and polarization: Beswick outlines how the AIM tool can uncover hidden issues affecting a company's innovation.·     Building a self-sustaining framework: Developing a next-step approach that enables companies to address specific innovation maturity barriers independently.·     The scalability of innovation assessments: Beswick's model's adaptability to varying-size organizations highlights its broad applicability.  Contact Chris Beswick:·     LinkedIn·     Contact directly for innovation maturity discussions: Chris Beswick, Outcome Co.Resources Mentioned:AIM (Assessment of Innovation Maturity): A tool described by Chris Beswick for measuring innovation maturity across different organizational pillars.Remember, understanding your company’s innovation maturity is pivotal, and taking the steps to improve it can set you on a path toward sustainable progress and competitive advantage. This Podcast is brought to you by Sopheon Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners like you. For additional information about new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s monthly newsletter, where we share news and industry best practices! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

Greetings, innovation enthusiasts! Today, Paul is joined by Innovation Talks producer Emma Hughes. Together, they reflect on a stellar year of insightful conversations and forward-thinking guests whose stories have left indelible marks on our understanding of the innovation landscape. Emma Hughes is not only the producer extraordinaire with an uncanny knack for identifying transformative narratives but also a voracious learner whose grasp of innovation and its nuances has deepened with every episode produced—Emma's perspective in each considered conversation that makes the podcast a treasure trove of industry knowledge. Our affable and knowledgeable host, Paul Heller, illustrates the quintessential curiosity that drives our conversations at Sopheon. With an impressive lineup of guests throughout 2023, Paul has enriched our podcast with profound and practical discussions, demonstrating a persistent pursuit of what it truly means to lead and innovate in today's dynamic environment. "Innovation is not just about breakthrough technologies; it's the human side of things that can sometimes transform the workplace even more profoundly." - Emma Hughes This week on Innovation Talks: ·     Reflecting on a year of empowering and motivational content from thought leaders like Carla Johnson, Aisha Armstrong, and William Mulholland.·     The personal and professional growth Emma and Paul have undergone through their interactions with podcast guests.·     A look at cultural shifts in the workplace, emphasizing the human element post-coronavirus.·     Paul's insights into the evolving role of product managers and the maturing of business innovation.·     The appropriate approach to integrating AI in products while maintaining a human touch in content.·     Emma and Paul's favorite podcast episodes of 2023 that sparked discussion and innovation in sustainability, strategy, and leadership.· The hosts' conversational approach to interviews creates an atmosphere for natural and insightful dialogues.·     An invitation to listeners to influence the podcast's future direction with feedback and participation.  Resources Mentioned: How to Make Innovative Thinking Your Competitive Advantage with Carla JohnsonFearless Transformation: Revolutionizing B2B Services for Profitable Productization with Eisha ArmstrongInsights from an AI Product Manager with William Mulholland This podcast is powered by Sopheon, leading the charge in enterprise innovation management solutions. Our mission is to help businesses achieve exceptional long-term growth and profitability through sustained innovation. Discover more about Sopheon This Podcast is brought to you by Sopheon Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners like you. For additional information about new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter, where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

Today, on Innovation Talks, Paul Heller and Greg Coticchia, the CEO of Sopheon, bring a wealth of experience in product management. In this episode, they delve into the challenges and opportunities faced by product managers, highlighting their crucial role in driving innovation and business success. Greg emphasizes the importance of leadership, collaboration, and strategic thinking for product managers to excel in their roles. He stresses the need for product managers to gain the trust and support of their executive team and the development and sales teams. Greg and Paul discuss the evolving nature of the product manager role, noting how it has changed over the years. They highlight the shift from product managers being solely focused on feature prioritization to becoming business owners responsible for their products' overall health and success. They emphasize the need for product managers to go beyond just being a proxy for the customer and actively engage with customers, salespeople, marketing, and development teams to gain a holistic understanding of the market and drive product success. The conversation also touches on the importance of executive support and understanding of product management. Greg emphasizes that executives need to recognize the value and impact of product management on the company's growth and profitability. He encourages executives to educate themselves on the role of product management and how they can support and empower product managers to make strategic decisions. Throughout the episode, Greg and Paul stress the need for product managers to learn and develop their skills continuously. They recommend taking sales and marketing courses better to understand the customer journey and the sales process. They also highlight the importance of staying updated on digital marketing strategies and tools to market and sell products in the digital age effectively. "If you're an executive and you don't know a lot about product management, you should. You should understand it as a profession. You should understand its role. You should understand how it helps you and your business." ~ Greg Coticchia  Greg Coticchia is the CEO of Sopheon and a seasoned expert in product management. With a wealth of experience in the industry, Greg has witnessed the transformation of product companies over the years and deeply understands the challenges faced by product managers and the evolving expectations placed upon them. Instrumental in reshaping the role of product managers, Greg lobbies for their involvement in strategic decision-making and their ability to drive business growth. He strongly advocates for product managers to develop leadership skills and build trust with key stakeholders, including developers, sales teams, and executives. Greg's insights and expertise make him a valuable resource for anyone navigating the complex world of product management.   This Week on Innovation Talks:Product managers should not fear or avoid working with sales organizations but rather find ways to collaborate and support them.Building relationships and trust with developers, sales teams, and executives is crucial for product managers to succeed.Education in strategy, business leadership, and sales can enhance the skills and effectiveness of product managers.Leadership is a key aspect of the product manager role, and they should strive to demonstrate leadership qualities in their work.Building relationships with sales teams is important for product managers to understand customer needs and effectively sell the product.Education in sales methodologies and digital marketing is essential for product managers to understand the customer journey and effectively support sales efforts.Understanding the role of product management and its impact on the organization is important for executives to provide the necessary support and resources.Product managers should not just focus on technical aspects but also understand their products' business and financial aspects. Resources Mentioned:SopheonAgile Manifesto- The Agile Manifesto that changed the role of product managers.HubSpotSalesforce This Podcast is brought to you by SopheonThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeartBe sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners like you.For additional information about new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s monthly newsletter, where we share news and industry best practices! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

In this week's episode, we dive into the fascinating world of product development and innovation. We explore the evolution of the StageGate methodology, which has been a cornerstone of successful product launches for decades. Our guest, Dr. Robert Cooper, is a renowned innovation thought leader who has spent over 40 years studying the practices and pitfalls of new product projects. With his extensive knowledge and expertise, Dr. Cooper shares valuable insights on how companies can refine and improve their innovation processes to stay ahead in today's rapidly changing business landscape. Dr. Robert Cooper is one of the most influential innovation thought leaders in the business world today. With a career spanning over four decades, he has dedicated his research to studying the practices and pitfalls of thousands of new product projects across various industries. As a prolific author and recipient of numerous awards, Dr. Cooper's expertise in innovation and product development is highly regarded. He is currently a Professor Emeritus of Marketing and Technology Management at the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University and a Distinguished Fellow at Penn State Institute. With his wealth of knowledge and experience, Dr. Cooper continues to shape the field of innovation and help companies navigate the ever-changing landscape of product development. "Artificial intelligence has just overtaken marketing... the other thing that it's taken over is things like pricing, dynamic pricing. Some of you may be familiar with Uber and how they do their pricing. The price goes up when the demand goes up. That's AI-based."  - Dr. Robert Cooper Today on Innovation Talks: StageGate methodology has stood the test of time: Dr. Robert Cooper, the creator of StageGate, highlights that the basic principles of StageGate have remained relevant and effective over the years.Lean processes are crucial for efficiency: Many companies struggle with bloated processes and excessive documentation in their product development.Agile and StageGate can be combined: Dr. Cooper acknowledges the growing interest in Agile methodologies and their application in product development.Portfolio management is crucial for resource allocation: Many companies struggle with managing a large number of projects simultaneously.Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming product development: AI is playing an increasingly significant role in various stages of product development. Resources Mentioned:· StageGate: A methodology for product success introduced by Dr. Robert Cooper in 1986.· Agile: A project management methodology that can be combined with StageGate for more efficient product development.· Lean Six Sigma: A set of methodologies used to streamline processes and eliminate waste, which can be applied to the new product development process.· Digital Twins: Virtual replicas of physical products or processes that can be used for simulation, testing, and optimization.Resources:·     Dr. Robert Cooper’s Books  This Podcast is brought to you by Sopheon Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

In today's episode, I dive into governing digital products using an agile development approach. I discuss the challenges of transitioning from physical products to digital products and how the traditional phase gate model can be adapted to suit the unique needs of digital product development. I outline a four-gate process model that includes decision points such as funding development, MVP review and reconfirmation, decision to launch, product review, and strategic adjustment. I emphasize the importance of cross-functional alignment and understanding throughout the development process and highlight the need for regular review meetings to ensure the product's success in the market. Join me as I explore the intricacies of governing agile development and provide insights into how companies can effectively manage their digital product development. "So much failure happens here because the product is ready and the company is not."~Paul Heller Today on Innovation Talks: The success of launching a digital product relies on the readiness of the entire company, not just the product itself.PhaseGate principles, which are used to manage and reduce risk in product development, can be applied to digital products as well.The four primary gates: decision to fund development, MVP review and reconfirmation, decision to launch, and product review and strategic adjustment.The MVP review and reconfirmation gate is crucial for understanding and adapting to changes in the product, market, and competitive landscape.The decision to launch gate focuses on assessing the readiness of the company as a whole.  This Podcast is brought to you by Sopheon Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

You might have heard the term Stage-Gate when discussing product development processes, from Idea to Product Launch. The name comes from one, Dr. Robert Cooper, one of the most influential innovation thought-leaders in the industry. He trademarked the term Stage-Gate and its methodology, which was implemented by almost 80% of North American companies. In his framework, a product's genesis will go through discreet stages until it hits the market with expected high success rate results. In today's episode, I want to take some time to explain the Stage-Gate methodology in layman's terms and what Robert Coopers' research delivered after observing why some companies are very successful at bringing products to market while others are less so. I discuss the stages of Concept Development and the deliverable 'Gate-Meetings' each product would go through. I discuss the benefits of early concept development and how this is a form of quality control. I also discuss how Stage-Gating will maximize your chances of bringing winning products to market. "By and large the concept of Stages and Gates is always there. It's just the deliverables, the gatekeepers, the way the decisions are made; they become unique to each company." – Paul Heller"You can think of it almost as a risk management methodology. It's a lot like what a venture capitalist would do. If they were going to invest in a firm, they don't just give the big check right up front, right?" – Paul Heller"That methodology took a lot of risk out of these products and would identify the products early on that were less likely to succeed in order to make it really work well." – Paul Heller"Your gatekeepers are a critical role. They need to be people who from the cross-functional parts of your company are going to try to make the business decision to go to the next stage. And they're going to base that on intuition. They're going to base that on experience." – Paul Heller"You're not just bringing products to market, but you're filtering and bringing the winning products to market. And that's what the stage-gate system was all about." – Paul Heller This week on Innovative Talks:Breaking down the meaning of Stage-Gate in industryHow a successful company breaks down initial concept developmentThe Five-Stage model for product developmentHow Stage-Gating is a form of quality controlWhy Gatekeepers are critical to the success of a productWhat the Money-Gate means for serious investmentResources Mentioned: Book: Winning at New Products by Robert G. Cooper Connect with Paul Heller:·      Paul Heller on LinkedIn This Podcast is brought to you by Sopheon Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate Innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

Benji Coetzee is the Chief Strategy Officer at KPN, a Dutch communications company. With a background in psychology and a passion for understanding human behavior, Benji brings a unique perspective to her role. She has led numerous digital transformation projects and is known for her ability to inspire and motivate teams. Benji is also the author of the book "Daddy Says No," which explores the psychology behind decision-making and offers practical advice for personal and professional growth. With her expertise in change management and commitment to creating a positive and inclusive work environment, Benji is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the industry. In this episode, I enjoyed speaking with Benji Coetzee, the Chief Strategy Officer at KPN. Benji is a dynamic leader with a passion for driving transformation and growth. With her extensive experience in change management and deep understanding of human behavior, Benji shares valuable insights on navigating the challenges of leading a transformation project. Her book, "Daddy Says No," delves into the psychology behind decision-making and offers practical advice for personal and professional growth. Join us as we explore the importance of understanding people, embracing change, and creating a culture of trust and collaboration. "If you want to really grow, you really need to be open to change." ~ Benji Coetzee This Week on Innovation Talks:·     Building trust and autonomy: Benji emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for the success or failure of a project, giving people autonomy, and being willing to take the heat if something goes wrong. ·     The power of in-person interactions: Benji highlights the value of being physically present with teams, as it allows for better communication, understanding, and collaboration compared to virtual interactions. ·     Starting with why: Benji stresses the significance of clearly communicating the purpose and rationale behind a change or transformation project to get everyone aligned and motivated. ·     Understanding people's emotions: Benji suggests taking the time to understand the fears, ambitions, and emotions of the team members involved in the project. This understanding can help in crafting a compelling story and keeping the team motivated. ·     Self-reflection and vulnerability: Benji encourages leaders to reflect on their own insecurities and behaviors, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes and has room for growth. Being vulnerable and open about one's own humanity can create a more approachable and authentic leadership style. ·     Change as a catalyst for growth: Benji believes that change is necessary for growth, and that significant growth often comes from embracing uncomfortable changes and challenging oneself to adapt and improve. ·     The importance of understanding biases and triggers: Benji discusses the significance of recognizing decision-making biases and emotional triggers that can influence behavior. By understanding these biases, individuals can make better decisions and achieve greater satisfaction. ·     Taking the time to understand the team: Benji advises leaders to invest time in understanding the people they work with, their ambitions, fears, and motivations. This understanding can help in building a strong team and creating a supportive and collaborative environment. Connect with Benji Coetzee:"Daddy Says No" by Benji Coetzee Instagram LinkedInThis Podcast is brought to you by Sopheon Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.

Jim Fava is a leading pioneer in sustainability who has made significant contributions to sustainability and environmentalism for over 40 years. Regarded as the “father of modern-day life cycle assessment,” Jim has spent his career guiding businesses and governments through risks and opportunities, enabling them to hold environmentally responsible and sustainable operations. He is the co-founder of the Forum for Sustainability through Life Cycle Innovation, a multi-stakeholder and membership-based community organization for everyone interested in Life Cycle approaches to enhance the sustainability of economic activities. He is the former Executive Director of the Anthesis Group, an organization that supports businesses and governments in understanding and navigating risks and opportunities. Today, Jim and Neil D’Souza co-host Five Lifes to Fifty, a podcast that explores the intersection between society, business, environment, and technology, and negotiating the path to sustainable products.Jim joins me today to offer insight on how product managers can lead sustainable innovation. He outlines four strategies for navigating sustainable innovation in the context of organizational position and goals. He discusses the role of a product manager in mapping a product’s sustainability, stakeholder engagement, and regional considerations. Jim also highlights why collaborating with internal and external functions within an organization is crucial for product managers and underscores the value of being proactive. “Product managers are critical to the compliance strategy, and they need to reach out to two functions: first, the marketing team, to get a better handle of the market, and two, the government affairs group.” - Jim Fava This week on Innovation Talks:●     The sustainability roundtable and the life cycle assessment tool●     Golden Rule #7: Meeting them where they are●     Various perspectives on sustainability in organizations●     The “Shaping the Future” strategy of sustainable innovation●     Product managers collaborating with other functions in the company●     The shift toward proactive sustainability strategies●     The “compliance” strategy of sustainable innovation●     Being prepared for change in the sustainability landscape●     Why product managers need to establish connections and proactively address challenges●     The “market-driven” strategy in sustainable innovation●     Continuous learning in sustainability Resources Mentioned:●     International Organization for Standardization●     Forum for Sustainability through Life Cycle Innovation●     American Center for LCA●     Book: The Power of Life Cycle Assessment: Data Driven Decision Making for Environmental Sustainability by American Center for Life Cycle Assessment (ACLCA) Connect with Jim Fava:●     Podcast: Five Lifes to Fifty●     Jim Fava on LinkedIn This Podcast is brought to you by Sopheon Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart | Amazon Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners, like you. For additional information around new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s newsletter where we share news and industry best practices monthly! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.