Innovation often goes unnoticed, even when it’s transforming the world. Major breakthroughs, like the electric dynamo, took decades to impact productivity levels. This ‘implementation lag’ is due to the time it takes to understand, distribute, and adapt to new ideas. It’s common for people to underestimate the effect of innovations because they’re not immediately obvious.
Furthermore, the most profound changes often appear boring. They’re not headline-grabbing, but they’re quietly revolutionising industries. The shipping container, for instance, seems mundane but has drastically reduced transport costs and boosted global trade.
Not all innovations need to be radical; incremental improvements can also bring about significant change. The Wright brothers didn’t invent flight; they improved the control system.
Lastly, there’s a misconception that successful inventors are wealthy. However, many innovators don’t reap financial rewards. Their inventions often become platforms for others to build upon and profit from.
In short, the impact of innovation is often slow, subtle, and overlooked. Yet, it’s these quiet revolutions that are truly changing the world.
Go to source article: http://www.collaborativefund.com/blog/when-you-change-the-world-and-no-one-notices/