Novel, Means Novel

Merriam-Webster defines the adjective novel as: “not resembling something formerly known, identified or used” and “original or striking especially in conception or style.”

In my view, novel is an overused descriptor and often erroneously applied. For example, an overhaul to company branding, such as new taglines or logos does not mean the actual program, service or product has changed. Rather, it pertains to a change in marketing or sales strategy. Likewise, small additions or changes to the content, deliverables, approach or modality of delivery of a service or program does not qualify as novel. With respect to consulting services and programs, novel means it is an original creation that has not been replicated by other consulting companies.

During a meeting with a senior leader, I learned that their Corporation only contracts with large consulting firms. Here is my reply:

“Cinder to Flame offers novel services that are not available through large consulting firms. The services position the health and well-being of people at the centre of corporate culture change. This increases engagement and the energy required to participate in corporate initiatives. Cinder to Flame has a unique approach that simultaneously builds inventive thinking and performance skills to generate more innovative solutions to complex challenges."  

Our discussion progressed to the next question: “Has your program been tested and implemented with another Corporation?” Respectfully, the blunt answer is: “Novel, means novel and when the first client is approached, the program has never been implemented.”

How can a novel program be a proven concept if it has not been implemented? The Cinder to Flame program is grounded in research and a diverse knowledge base. Proven concepts have been extracted from a strong foundation of research (several, high quality studies) that enable the creation of novel strategies and services. Researchers are credited with building this knowledge base. My role was to summarize the research findings and assemble key concepts into tangible deliverables.

Acceptance of something novel is the next challenge. The Diffusion of Innovation Theory emerged through the work of several researchers and was popularized by Everett Rogers who mapped the process toward a critical mass for acceptance of a novel program, service or product. The five categories resemble a normal bell curve, with estimated percentages of innovators at the extreme left (2.5%), followed by early adopters (13.5%), the early majority (34%), the late majority (34%) and laggards (16%). These categories apply to both initiators and recipients of an innovation.

Early adopters are eager to trial an innovation because of their desire to be ahead of their peers, setting trends and serving as role models. They are attracted by initiatives that appear to be higher risk and hold promise of high rewards. This contrasts with the early majority who wait for proof of concept and references from colleagues (or competitors) who were early adopters. The late majority require even more proof and may eventually cave to external peer pressure.

Many Corporations are positioned as (or aspire to be) leaders in innovation. However, their culture may not match that of an early adopter. Is this a missed opportunity to be the first to reap the benefits from a novel program, service or product?

Reliance on large consulting firms may appear to be a safe option but reports suggest there is a possible downside. Due to structural factors and mass production, large consulting firms may offer a fixed program design (a standard approach); may have less room for creative programming; and, be less responsive to environmental factors that require flexibility for revision and customization of services.

Cinder to Flame helps Corporations solve complex challenges with strategic services that energize people, fuel a healthy corporate culture and ignite major innovation.

Transformational leaders possess the mindset of innovators and early adopters who are ready to seize novel ideas, unusual opportunities, and innovative solutions.

Explore Cinder to Flame's novel services, tailored to your corporate sector: https://www.cindertoflame.ca/services

Read about the characteristics of transformational leaders: https://www.cindertoflame.ca/post/are-you-a-transformational-leader

© Deborah (Ellen) Wildish, Cinder to Flame 2022-Present. All Rights Reserved.

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