How do you create a compelling vision for your innovation?

1 Define your purpose

Your vision should start with your purpose, or why you are innovating in the first place. What problem are you solving, what need are you fulfilling, or what opportunity are you seizing? Your purpose should be aligned with your core values and mission, and reflect your passion and motivation. Your purpose should also be relevant and meaningful to your target audience, and address their pain points or aspirations.

2 Describe your outcome

Your vision should also describe your outcome, or what you are aiming to achieve with your innovation. What value are you creating, what impact are you making, or what change are you driving? Your outcome should be specific and measurable, and show how your innovation is different from the existing alternatives. Your outcome should also be ambitious and realistic, and challenge you and your team to stretch your capabilities and resources.

3 Use storytelling techniques

Your vision should not be a dry statement of facts, but a vivid story that engages your audience emotionally and intellectually. Use storytelling techniques to make your vision more memorable and persuasive. For example, you can use metaphors, analogies, or examples to illustrate your point, or use contrast, comparison, or questions to create curiosity and interest. You can also use sensory language, imagery, or sounds to appeal to your audience's senses and imagination.

4 Test and refine your vision

Your vision should not be a static document, but a dynamic and evolving expression of your innovation journey. Test and refine your vision regularly, based on feedback from your stakeholders, customers, and partners. Ask them how they perceive your vision, what resonates with them, and what questions or concerns they have. Use their input to improve your clarity, relevance, and appeal. You can also use tools like surveys, interviews, or workshops to collect and analyze data on your vision.

5 Share your vision

Your vision should not be a secret, but a shared and collaborative endeavor. Share your vision widely and frequently, with your internal and external audiences. Use different channels and formats to suit your purpose and context, such as presentations, videos, blogs, or social media. Use your vision to inspire, inform, and influence your audience, and invite them to join you in making your vision a reality. You can also use your vision to align your actions, decisions, and priorities with your innovation goals.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?