Innovation and Unnovation

Abstract

What is innovation? There is much confusion. Consider the following:

• Oxford International: (1) the action or process of innovating — crucial to the continuing success of any organization, or (2) a new method, idea, product, and so on.

• Wikipedia: something original, new, and important in whatever field that breaks in to, or obtains a foothold in a market or society.

• Free Dictionary: (1) the act of introducing something new, or (2) something newly introduced.

• Merriam-Webster: (1) the introduction of something new, or (2) a new idea, method, or device.

• Dictionary.com: (1) something newly introduced, such as a new method or device, or (2) the act of innovating.

• BusinessDictionary.com: the process of translating an idea or invention into a good or service that creates value or for which customers will pay.

“Our wretched species is so made that those who walk on the well-trodden path always throw stones at those who are showing a new road.”

Voltaire (1764)