Suggestion boxes, a pillar of participative innovation, promise motivation and creativity. The reality is very different.
The observation
No implementation, rapid demotivation, clogged processes, disappointed expectations. After a few months, idea generation dries up.
Why so many failures despite the resources deployed? Ideas pile up, nobody processes them, contributors get discouraged. The system promised to unleash creativity, it ends up stifling it.
The fundamental error
The fundamental error lies in systematically preferring solutions over problems.
Yet identifying a strategic problem is simpler than finding its solution, and doesn't require the same skills. An operator, a technician, a salesperson: each sees concrete problems every day. But they are asked for solutions, which is not their job.
Valuing only solutions creates a counterproductive system where complex problems are ignored for lack of an immediate solution. The best improvement opportunities remain hidden.
The solution: problem boxes
Problems are easier to evaluate than ideas. Their impact is measurable: cost, frequency, consequences. A well-formulated problem is already half solved.
Replacing suggestion boxes with problem boxes radically transforms participative innovation effectiveness. Collected problems can then be addressed with structured methods like ASIT, which generate inventive solutions systematically.
Want to transform your participative innovation approach? Discover our creativity training and our creativity and innovation workshops to structure problem-solving in your organization.
Stop asking for ideas. Ask for problems.
