What the political conventions can teach us about innovation

The Republicans just finished their big shindig and now the Democrats have their blowout this week.   While watching part of the convention I had a moment when I realized there is so much to learn about innovation from this process.   

First, if you are running your company the way it was designed in 1832 it might be time to rethink your approach.  Just saying.

Second, if your company is making decisions by which faction yelled the loudest in a 'yea'' or 'nay' vote you might want reflect on that.

Third, if Scott Baio is your big name draw, at least do a skit of some type like 'Donald Loves Melania' or 'Donald in Charge.'  Those are so obvious.   Where was Trump's use of Chachi's  "wah wah wah' from Happy Days in his acceptance speech.   What a lost opportunity.

Finally, if helping drive change in your organization hinges on a speech by your company's leader at 10:15 pm on day 4 of very boring off-site when most folks are ready to go to bed, it might be prudent to evaluate if that is really a good idea.

I completely understand that these conventions are really about media, promotion, and having a big boondoggle.  With that said, what about your company?  What innovative approaches are you using for annual meetings, off-sites, and staff meetings?  Are you trying new and innovative approaches or is it more of the same old same old.

Take a lesson from the conventions - it is time to innovate.