You're pushing for unconventional research in R&D. How do you win over skeptical stakeholders?
Pushing for unconventional research in R&D can be challenging, especially when stakeholders are skeptical. To win them over, you'll need a strategic approach:
What strategies have worked for you when convincing stakeholders about new ideas?
You're pushing for unconventional research in R&D. How do you win over skeptical stakeholders?
Pushing for unconventional research in R&D can be challenging, especially when stakeholders are skeptical. To win them over, you'll need a strategic approach:
What strategies have worked for you when convincing stakeholders about new ideas?
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To persuade skeptical stakeholders for unconventional R&D, focus on clear communication, data-driven evidence, risk mitigation, phased approach, collaboration, highlighting potential disruption, and long-term vision.
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To win over skeptical stakeholders for unconventional R&D, present a clear business case linking the research to company goals, emphasizing market differentiation and potential ROI. Use data, case studies, and market trends to highlight its relevance. Engage stakeholders early to address concerns and build ownership. Propose small pilot studies to minimize risks and deliver quick results. Leverage your credibility and expertise to inspire confidence. Frame the project as a competitive advantage and address risks with detailed contingency plans. Ensure alignment with regulations to ease compliance concerns. This structured approach helps demonstrate value and gradually builds stakeholder trust and support.
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Suggest starting with small, low-risk experiments or pilot projects to test the idea in action. This way, stakeholders can see real-world results without committing too many resources upfront, making the approach feel safer and more practical.
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I make more attractive what they already know: thus, I highlight and emphasize the advantages and high points they already know then I add at least three or five more points to make the proposal inresistable
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To win over skeptical stakeholders for unconventional R&D research, I focus on building trust through evidence and alignment. I present a well-researched case showing how the innovation addresses unmet needs or opens new opportunities, supported by data, trends, or pilot results. Clear risk assessment and mitigation strategies demonstrate preparedness. Framing the research within the organization’s goals ensures alignment, while involving stakeholders in early discussions fosters buy-in. By highlighting potential ROI and competitive advantages, I turn skepticism into support. #InnovationLeadership #StakeholderEngagement #RDStrategy
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To gain the support of skeptical stakeholders for unconventional R&D, it's crucial to present a well-supported case backed by clear, persuasive evidence. Emphasize the long-term potential and how this approach could drive groundbreaking innovations or offer a competitive edge. If possible, reference data from similar successful initiatives to mitigate perceived risks. Engage stakeholders by addressing their concerns, aligning the research with broader objectives, and outlining effective risk management strategies. A clear execution plan, coupled with regular progress updates, will help build trust and encourage buy-in for the innovative approach.
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Begin by succinctly articulating the possible benefits and long-term value of your concepts to stakeholders who are in opposition to unconventional R&D approaches. Use data and case studies to substantiate your claims. Foster a sense of ownership by seeking their input and addressing their concerns, thereby involving them in the process. Establish a collaborative atmosphere by inviting stakeholders to participate in brainstorming sessions or workshops, and demonstrate the efficacy of your approach through small-scale pilot projects that yield quick wins. Finally, ensure that the innovative endeavours are perceived as consistent with their objectives by maintaining open lines for interaction to keep them informed and engaged.
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A few things I have found helpful - A phased approach with evaluations after each phase with specific measurable actionable realistic timelines - Calculating the return of investment of the PV module gain be it in performance, reliability of durability - showing alternatives and letting the party that needs convincing make their own conclusions (people are most convinced by things they discover themselves) - Clear communication of the progress and milestones - noting the risks of doing and not doing it (loosing technology advantage vs gain, market positioning and so forth) - Showing how the market is asking for a, b or c to be integrated into the product
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Skeptical stake holders like Marketing colleagues don't understand importance of unconventional R&D requirements. They simply stick to timelines and dont support and give time for R&D to Mature to implementable technology. They need just instant noodle type R&D,which they need to prepare at home. We need to adapt to changing times and 1.)need to depend on strong data 2.)Understand competitive advantage of doing R&D .)Transparent risks addressing. Every unconventional product needs to be addressed separately and need not approach them in a hire and fire startegy.Patience and kindness with R&D is must for proper product development startegies.Particularly Marketing professionals should be kept away from running core R&D divisions.
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Winning over skeptical stakeholders requires empathy, data, and clear communication. I start by understanding their concerns and objectives through active listening. Then, I provide evidence-based insights, practical solutions, and demonstrate the value of the proposed approach. Building trust through transparency, consistency, and delivering small wins helps shift skepticism to support.”
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