I was once in a crowded food court in a busy office area. I was able to find one seat for myself at a table, which was already occupied by two youngsters.

I could not help but overhear what they were talking.

One said “ I am busy in the noon……have a presentation on innovation by my manager”

The second person replied “ Oh!!….Innovation….Cool man!!…..I have never attended any such presentations”

“ It is because, yours is a small company” was the reply.

They were still talking, but I was immersed in my own thoughts & could not enjoy the rest of the meal.

That young man sitting next to me was right, Why is innovation never spoken about in small companies and why do large companies go to the roof top and shout about innovation?

Small companies are nimble & change management is never an issue. If they do not innovate they will cease to exist.

Large companies would have grown from the ranks but would have lost its way in its “Systems” approach to everything. They have to cut through the bureaucracy & red tape to make change happen and bring back the risk taking ability among its senior leaders.

Small companies need not make a noise about Innovations, it will be in their DNA. They have to innovate everyday to survive.

It is like a saying which says, ‘Fish was the last living being that discovered water.”