Unlocking the Power of Innovation

The goal of this article is to provide a practical guide to unlocking the power of innovation within the nursing community. First the three intersecting components of the innovation process (the innovation itself, creativity, and the environment) are explored. Next conceptual perspectives, drawn from the work of both von Hippel and Christensen, are reviewed. This is followed by a description of innovation methods with particular emphasis on IDEO’s innovative processes and the Transforming Care at the Bedside initiative. Finally, specific examples of organizational structures to support innovation within healthcare institutions and across healthcare communities are highlighted. Throughout the article examples of healthcare innovation will be highlighted to illustrate the principles described in the article.