Process and systems innovations are responsible for some of the highest return on investment. Many of these are innovative enabling systems for employees.

I must confess, I love shopping for shoes though with my specific needs, I am very particular. After searching the vast selection, I am always thrilled to find the perfect style. Now the sales person who has been hovering disappears into the back anxious to connect me with my new acquaintances. Only to reappear 5 minutes later regretful and empty handed.

Think about the cost of that sales person searching for shoes and not selling to more customers. Not to mention the frustration of my valuable time wasted.

The last time I shopped for shoes, the store had touch-screen inventory checks that saved the sales person from having to run to the back each time a customer wanted to try on a pair of shoes. Voila! An innovative enabling system to streamline the sales process.

Anywhere there is a process or system, there is an innovation waiting to happen. Your front line workers are best equipped to find innovative solutions. So reach out to the ones who know the system or process. Ask them what works and what doesn’t. Let them provide the insights for your next innovation. Create a culture of innovation that empowers all your resources to safe time and money in the process of your business.

What adaptation or innovation would make your systems run smoother, faster or more efficient? Where have you seen an innovation that enables people to do their job better or with more added-value?