The idea: The critical issue in the innovation process

OFTEN, when meeting with small groups of managers and senior engineers, I've been asked: How do innovators come up with ideas that are worth pursuing? Good question, but no definitive or simple answers. So, here are few points to consider. Keep in mind that Innovation involves invention plus commercialization or implementation; no commercialization or implementation, no innovation. Innovation requires invention (something new) and invention begins with the idea.