The Innovation Game

In 1968 Dr Spence Silver was asked to create extremely strong quick drying glue for the manufacturing company 3M. Unfortunately, his product has the exact opposite effect; a weak adhesive that never seemed to dry. Several years later his colleague Dr Art Fry was trying to find a way to stop his bookmarks from falling out. By applying the weak glue to a slip of paper never lost his place again and in turn created the world famous post it note.

The growth of mobile has accelerated the pace of innovation. In the last 30 days we have seen major players within our industry use existing features in creative ways:

Fashion Start-Up Everlane
Everlane in an on-line shopping service focused on high end fashion at affordable prices. Last month the launched a new mobile app that included additional features to stand out from the competition. There in built weather app makes suggestions on what to wear (and buy) taking into account your local conditions. The company also offers ‘early access’ product launches, and a mobile only waiting list for new items.

Mapping Service Mapstr
Mapstr is an app designed to help you bookmark/ plot your favourite places onto a map. It makes it easier to find the opening hours and contact information that’s important to you. When they launched the latest version they also included the ability to look at your friends maps; allowing the users to share their favourite places.

Transport Network Uber
Uber is an app designed to connect drivers and passengers directly; helping users book a taxi without the need for a centralised booking service. The app also picks up your location automatically through GPS, and allows you to pay through the app. In the last month Uber began testing a new feature “Suggested Pick-up Points”, which advises customers if there is a nearby place they could walk to in order to significantly reduce the total journey time.

“Never innovate to compete, innovate to change the rules of the game”. -David O. Adeife

Clothing stores, maps, and taxis have been around for some time, and the technology mentioned above is not new. The solutions however are extremely innovative, and the come from companies who have seen huge growth.

We’re recognised in the industry for our app building platform that requires no technical experience. Our real innovation however isn’t driven by us centrally, but by our network members who merge technology with the needs of local businesses. If you’re feeling creative, then we would love to hear from you.