Innovation, exnovation and intelligent failure

Abstract

IMPACT: Innovation remains a crucial focus for practising managers in both the public and private sectors, yet the practice of innovation often misunderstood if not ignored. This article highlights an under-explored aspect of innovation—failure—and discusses how the conscious application of an intelligent failure approach can support more effective innovation. It discusses a particular form of innovation practice—exnovation—which involves the conscious pruning and cessation of innovation initiatives. By having a clearer understanding of the vital role of intelligent failure and exnovation in the innovation process, managers can better support the growth of innovation cultures and practices within their organizations.