Beyond the blueprint: creative engineering and strategic IP management
In the ever-evolving landscape of innovation, there's a simple yet potent key to unlocking creativity — constantly question the status quo. Ask yourself: Is the current solution truly the best, or can it be elevated in some way? Let's dive into this mindset shift that has the potential to revolutionize your approach to problem-solving.
Rethinking Existing IP Strategy: The Limitations of Conventional Engineering Solutions
Imagine embarking on a new project, let's call it Project X. Like any project, it comes with its own set of subproblems — A, B, C, and D — that demand solutions. Now, the non-creative engineer might take a shortcut, thinking, ‘Ah, A, B, and D are basically recycled from the old Project Y; I'll just focus on subproblem C.’
Sure, it seems like a convenient solution, saving time and making everyone involved happy. The project manager's timelines are met, the sales department is delighted with the early completion, and the CFO revels in the positive cash flow. So, why not stick with the tried and tested?
Here's the catch: What if solutions A, B, and D originated from a five-year-old blueprint? In the fast-paced world of technological evolution, this could mean your final product is trailing behind competitors. It might be a short-term win but a long-term setback for the company.
Defining Creative Engineering: Beyond Standard Problem-Solving
Enter the creative engineer — the visionary who recognizes the efficiency of the shortcut but also understands the risks. They invest time in reevaluating A, B, and D. Is this truly the optimal solution for today's technological landscape? This involves challenging oneself to think outside the familiar boundaries, leveraging knowledge of technical evolution to explore alternative approaches.
If the creative engineer discovers a novel, superior solution that brings technical advantages over the old one, it's a golden opportunity. Share this insight with the company, assess its business value, and, if worthwhile, get a patent on your idea. Even if the current solution remains strategically sound for the project, the company gains a future-proof perspective for upcoming product enhancements.
Moreover, the act of exploring alternative solutions, even if not immediately more advantageous, exercises the creative muscle. It hones the ability to think outside the box, ensuring a reservoir of inventive solutions for future challenges. The more you practice creative thinking, the more adept you become.
So, the major takeaways:
always challenge the status quo to transcend your business' traditional IP management boundaries;
regularly ask yourself if the current solution is genuinely the best way to tackle this problem;
exercise the creative engineering mindset to become a visionary in your company and to enhance your company's IP strategy;
embark on a journey toward continuous improvement and future-proofing your endeavors.
