.png)
'Where good ideas come from', Steven Johnson
Steven Johnson is an innovation thinker and writer. In this video, he outlines the main ideas from his book: 'Where do good ideas come from?' He shares recurring patterns he has noticed that are present in historical times of great creativity and innovation.
View resourceSummary
Steven investigates where good ideas come from, and what has led to unusual rates of creativity and innovation in the past. Through this investigation, he has noticed recurring patterns that are important in creating environments that are unusually innovative, including:
- Slow evolution of ideas: good ideas often start as "slow hunches". They need time to develop, sometimes over many years.
- Collaboration is key: breakthroughs happen when incomplete ideas connect with others, turning them into something greater.
- Importance of connectivity: historically, spaces like coffee houses provided the opportunity for people and ideas to mingle. Today, increased digital connectivity can facilitate this collaboration.
- Chance favours the connected mind: innovation thrives on interlinked ideas and minds. This fosters serendipitous discoveries and collaborations.
Related resources
Wellbeing Matters Guide
GuidesThe "Wellbeing Matters Guide" offers insights from social enterprise leaders, particularly in regional, rural, and remote areas. It provides resources to support leaders in enhancing their wellbeing and effectiveness by sharing real-life experiences.
Learn more'Stories to save the world', Futerra
ReportsThis resource explores the power of storytelling in addressing climate change - its underlying ideas can be applied to other areas of impact. It argues that while the science and technology for combating climate change exist, what's missing is the right story to motivate action.
Learn more