Innovation in an Uncertain Economy

The article discusses the role of people, processes, and platforms in the success of a company. Companies need to foster a synergistic operational view that transcends the common fixation on simply acquiring the latest technology platforms and expecting greater productivity. It is a matter of three dimensions: people, processes, and platforms. A pragmatic approach that balances people, processes, and platforms will transcend generation after generation of equipment and, for that matter, people and processes. People must operate the technology platforms, and they must be motivated to redirect their skills toward new tools and technologies. Processes, too, must be regarded differently—as a means to leverage not only higher feeds and speeds, but also to integrate data sharing, communication, and documentation. Achieving the right balance among people, processes, and platforms is necessary to drive business success.