Demystifying idea management

Idea management is still a young industry here in the UK and there is a certain air of mystery about what it is and how to use it. Here we hope to demystify it for those new to the sector.

In short, idea management is the process of finding great ideas and then making them happen.

Idea management puts a structure to the process of collecting and capturing ideas within an organisation or community. It provides a central place where ideas are stored and can then be evaluated and analysed. The best ones are then chosen to be developed further – and hopefully be implemented and become reality.

By using innovation software you can ensure that ideas don’t get lost and that the best ideas can be identified and developed. However, innovation software is only as good as your business processes and engagement with the tool. Make sure you implement processes to support the tool and set goals for what you want to achieve by using it. The overall goal should be to help foster a culture of open innovation, with all employees encouraged to contribute: where feedback is open and honest, good ideas are nurtured and talent recognised.