Deltatre | What does it take to build an Innovation Lab?

Generate values upon your identity

It’s important for an Innovation Lab to deeply understand their industry, business, and people. Of course, there’s always room for learnings from other companies and industry experts, as well as an openness to seek advice from outside sources. But remember and keep hold of what makes your company great, the philosophy that it has been built around, and trust those around you.

Here at Deltatre, my colleagues and I underwent a full branding exercise in coordination with the Brand and Communications team, resulting in the Lab’s own visual style and logo. The benefit is that now there is something the company can organize around when talking about our innovation.

Create the right work environment

There should be significant emphasis placed on creating a space where ideas can flourish, where workers are encouraged to investigate solutions, and where they are supported in their work. A sense of openness and sharing is vital. Ideally, anyone working with the Innovation Lab should have the freedom to explore any new, exciting ideas which they think will lead to progress for the company.

It’s also important to realize when someone needs space to work alone, while recognizing when it’s best to collaborate with peers on a project. It is also worth mentioning that at Deltatre, every single employee is welcome and encouraged to work with the Lab on projects.

Build the right team

Above all, there should be a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and recruiting people with different stories to tell. Only by bringing on people with varying expertise will you be able to approach complex technological challenges from different angles, while also promoting internal learning.