In the return of Vicsport’s Forward Thinking Series, participants unpacked what innovation really means, the different kinds of innovation, the risks of not innovating, and how organisations can begin to implement innovative practices in their operations.
Facilitated by Doing Something Good, ‘Culture of Innovation’ started participants on their journey to becoming more innovative. This interactive session allowed attendees to gain a greater understanding of innovation, what it truly means and how it could look within their organisation. A key component of the session was identifying the risks of not innovating. Innovation allows us to stay ahead of the game as opposed to reacting to trends and being behind the 8-ball. Failing to innovate can result in organisations losing participants to organisations who are innovating, which may include for-profit organisations coming in and filling a gap that sports are not able to fill.
Attendees were encouraged to break the exisitng mould and start to look at what the industry needs and wants. Just like the rest of the world, the sport industry is always evolving, sport needs to evolve with it. By questioning and challenging common wisdom and observing and scrutinising the behaviour of customers, competitors and suppliers we can identify new ways of doing things. Asking ourselves how can we do something differently and better that will serve the needs and wants of our target market will ensure the engagement and retention and retention of customers, suppliers, funding partners etc.
Of course in sport there are many stakeholders that have an influence on decision making. It is important to listen to these stakeholders. What challenges are they having and how can you assist them in overcoming these challenges? Assisting others will increase the likelihood of reciprocation for a challenge you are having. Anytime we are asking a person or organisation for something, whether it is to participate or provide funding or facilities, they want to know what is in it for them. What do they get out of the arrangement? Participants are able to enjoy a fun social activity that will improve their health. A government body who allows the use of a facility is getting more residents active. An organisation giving funding wants to be achieving their agenda items.
Another aspect of engaging customers is removing any potential barriers there may be for them to participate - make it as easy as possible for people to participate in your activity!
If you missed out on session 1: Culture of Innovation, make sure you are registered for session 2: Insights to Drive Innovation on Thursday 16 February, 2017. Registrations are filling quickly!
For more information and to register visit: vicsport.com.au.
To see images from the session, click here.
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