Innovation Usually Dies of Delay, Not Cost

Innovation may sound expensive but most experiments don’t fail because they were too pricey, they fail because they took too long.

You spend months getting approval. Then more months building the perfect version. By the time it’s ready, the problem’s changed - or everyone’s moved on.

A £5k test this month is worth more than a £50k pilot next year. Not just because it’s cheaper but because it might still matter.

Take Action

If you’re a leader:

Remember to praise imperfection if it was fast. Your people are scared of showing you something imperfect, which is why they delay.

If you’re a team member:

What’s the amount you can spend without seeking further approval? Work out what you can prove for that amount.