Innovation should be distinguished from invention, and from creativity. Both are relevant to software innovation, but whereas creativity is the state of mind which leads to innovative thinking, and invention could describe a new algorithm or program (or software development technique), innovation implies that the creative act and invention are carried into wider use, leading to substantial kinds of change; thus the successful exploitation of new ideas.

CSM’s solutions may seem entirely spontaneous and, at times, a little magical to the customer, because of the underlying innovation. In truth, however, there is a method to the madness. The outcome is what the customer sees; the method is the secret behind the outcome and allows the outcome to occur.

What would you call a person who can take something with a known use and employ it in an entirely new way? How about someone who recognizes a need and designs an effective solution? Most would say “inventor,” “originator,” “innovator,” or “creator.” But how about “improviser?” The skills that make software applications self-sustainable and successful are the same ones that innovators rely on.

One of the most valuable fields of experience and one that creativity and innovation leaders should engage in, especially leaders - is improvisation. It starts with learning to think and visualize out of the box, beyond the thought processes.

Skilled improvisations create order out of chaos, reason out of nonsense, and harmony out of discord. It takes practice and a system to create something from nothing. In CSM, the framework that defines the system actually expands possibilities rather than constricting them. This is accomplished by allowing the people to focus on the outcome rather than the process. Process leads to stereotyped outcomes, well defined and time tested. But that isn’t improvisation. The latter comes from thinking how the customer will envisage the outcome; this leads to improvisation of the time-tested outcome or solution.

4 foundational behaviors have led to the improvisations that CSM reflects:

Resisting the urge to plan ahead, evaluate, or anticipate what others will do, our improvisers work at the problem in hand. They are definitely reflective in their approach as they perceive the outcome; however they let it evolve rather than molding it. This not only addresses the current requirement but also brings in the extra advantage out of the purview of the customer.

Creativity in isolation is innovation. Though creative, the innovative solution is just a solution. The ‘wow’ factor arises when productive co-creation is fueled by sharing responsibility, being comfortable in taking risks, and having unconditional acceptance of all ideas. This aspect gives birth to the basic rule of “yes…and.” The “yes” connotes acceptance; the “and” allows the way ahead. It does not suggest agreement with everything offered, but it does imply willingness to accept it.

Innovations, rather an improvisation in innovations doesn’t happen after requirement is arranged in a platter. It is generally built upon. When initiated, we take that small step which though insignificant, provides the cutting edge, which others missed. Rather than try to force an outcome, CSM’s improvisers let go of preconceived ideas and thereby gain momentum toward the creation of something that is brand new.

Once an idea moves forward, let the outcome go. Improvisers at CSM realize that it is futile to try to control the outcome of an process structure. They contribute what and when they can. They have high involvement in the process but low attachment to the outcome. This method of innovation, like improvisation, often has a significant end result without being able to point to who did what. The whole is much greater than the sum of the parts.