It’s extremely important for leaders and other members of healthcare organizations to understand what innovation is—and what it isn’t. The goal of innovation is to methodically identify and implement a few new processes that make a big difference, not to generate hundreds of ideas that have little to no impact.
One way to do this is to learn from other industries that have already addressed issues we’re facing. If you’ve never tried to learn from or partner with another organization, particularly one outside of your industry, you might be unsure where to begin.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Start with your vendors. Is there a particular supplier nearby you can tour and learn more about? Consider the size and scale of the partner and whether or not they’re already invested in your patient base, systems, and/or reputation. You want them to be invested in your organization and not get side tracked.
- Consider working with smaller organizations or startups near universities. They can offer great opportunities.
- Look for a technology partner that can deliver an entire platform versus just one product or project.
- Understand that not every relationship will develop into a partnership.
An “inno-visit” is another great way to learn from other industries. Learn more about building the foundation for a partnership with an “inno-visit” in this May/June column Committing to Innovation to Survive.
David Entwistle is president/CEO, Stanford (Calif.) Health Care (dentwistle@stanfordhealthcare.org). Philip A. Newbold, FACHE, is CEO, Newbold Visionaries, South Bend, Ind. (newbold.visionaries@gmail.com) and CEO emeritus, Memorial Health System, South Bend, Ind.