Returning to work after the start of the new year can feel like a reality check post-celebrations. However, this can also present an exciting opportunity for new refreshing ideas and planning for a year ahead for your team.
Let’s delve into what an Innovation Sprint entails, its practical aspects, and the growing trend among organisations to invest resources in such endeavours.
An Innovation Sprint involves dedicating a specific timeframe, ranging from days to weeks, to explore technologies or ideas. Unlike traditional approaches, there's no rigid blueprint, and the focus isn't necessarily on producing a prototype. The primary goal is to expand the company's knowledge and add value. The structure and end goal can vary, but it often involves:
For those familiar with Agile or SCRUM, the parallels are evident— an Innovation Sprint progresses much like a development sprint. The process includes selecting the ideas and joining diverse teams with mentor leaders. Daily check-ins, addressing challenges, and adapting goals ensure a rapid project lifecycle. The cross-functional nature of teams fosters communication and collaboration, providing a unique opportunity for knowledge transfer and team-building.
To enhance the experience, you will want to add workshops that help accelerate and direct the project to its final goal of the sprint – whether it's launching a new startup or ideas.
You might think this isn’t the best way to maximise billable hours for your team for a company, and the concept of an Innovation Sprint might seem foreign. Yet, these sprints offer several key benefits:
The substantial outcomes of an Innovation Sprint are evident in the projects developed during the event. However, the intangible benefits contribute significantly to a company's success:
Contrary to the question posed, there's a positive spin — Innovation Sprints provide invaluable information, even if projects don't meet predefined goals. These insights can uncover issues related to the product, communication, time constraints, or skill gaps, enabling continuous improvement.
This is why we’re inviting anyone who wants to accelerate the next move to join the HEX Innovation Sprint — an intensive five-day event akin to a hackathon in Melbourne. The aim is to push the limits of your company's knowledge.
Join the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit group of people ready to sprint their ideas into reality and put their ideas in front of visionary leaders. Break free from creative hibernation and make 2024 the year of action.
Two cohorts in 2024 are:
Learn more about the program and apply for your spot here.
Embracing Innovation Sprints empowers and enthuses employees by offering a space for experimentation. Investing in these events not only strengthens the connection between employees and the company but also aligns them with the organisation's direction. Igniting passion and curiosity during Innovation Sprints pays dividends in future projects and contributes to maintaining a happy and motivated team.
A monthly snapshot of the latest HEX news, articles, and resources.