A dynamic thinking framework for innovation
Each thing is of like form from everlasting and comes round again in its cycle. –Marcus Aurelius
Summer turns into Fall, green leafed trees change to beautiful colors, and warm air turns cool.. Eventually, Winter’s snow and ice covers landscapes, and by Spring melt away, giving life to the next generation… This seasonal cycle repeats over and over……
Cycles are fundamental structures — not only Nature, but in all of life. Cycles, like systems, make up the world in which we live. There are patterns and recurring cycles operating all the time. If we are aware of these repetitions of change and their particular phases, we can make more effective choices and plans.
The zipCycle provides a framework for thinking. It outlines a sequence of activities that maximizes the probability of success in any endeavor.. It can be used on virtually any project, adding structure and discipline to the intuitive innovation process.
The zipCycle employs inductive logic, first “seeing” an optimum future and then building a bridge back from the future to the present. The Wright Brothers began their remarkable adventure by first acknowledging (against all past precedents) that “man CAN fly.” Then, they visualized and designed, step-by-step, the apparatus to accomplish their vision.
The zipCycle consists of five separate, but interdependent Phases, that will quicken the innovation process, plus enhancing results and conserving resources. Who doesn’t want this?
Phase 1: Visualize Purpose and Ideal Future©
Purpose and Ideal Future State define the start and end points of where you want to go and what your results will look like once you get there. They are developed deliberately and collectively (what does “collectively” mean?). Together, they provide clarity of direction, motivation and commitment, plus help align key stakeholders, thus saving time, money and energy.
Phase 2: Measure Gaps©
Gaps exist between your current state and where you want to go. These gaps may be quantitative (hard data measures are preferable) or qualitative. The primary benefits of measurement include: clearer priorities, enhanced accountability and better decision-making.
Phase 3: Strategize Approaches©
Strategies are developed to minimize and eventually eliminate gaps. We call strategies the “big How”. Key benefits are: greater control of resources, more effective communication, and empowered relationships.
Phase 4: Projectize Details©
Projects are vehicles to bring strategies into reality. They detail necessary activities, resource requirements and timelines. The chief benefits are: improved quality, greater efficiency, plus less conflict and stress.
Phase 5: Orchestrate Results©
Project activities for the innovation are implemented, while at the same time fulfilling other commitments.
If we Visualize Purpose and Ideal Future – we avoid going in the wrong direction.
If we Measure Gaps – we know where our starting point and how much we need to achieve.
If we Strategize Approaches – we will have a clear direction for achieving Purpose and Ideal Future.
If we Projectize Details – we avoid overlooking important specifics that will impact the quality of our results.
If we Orchestrate Results – we fulfill today’s responsibilities as we create a more desired future.
