John Kao takes us through the history of innovation

John Kao from Institute for Large Scale Innovation speaks during second and the last day of MindRush 2013. Kao takes the audience through the history of innovation.

Kao says that innovation is realization of a desired future. "Innovation is about technology, talent, processes, perceptions, business models, emerging opportunities."

Kao says during a recession, people in the US start companies in the garage. There are less jobs, starting up companies seem to be a good option. "Countries that are smaller tend to be good in innovation. India and China are complicated."

Kao says the role of a CEO is that of a chief innovation officer. He talks about the 'Suggestion box problem.' "Organizations invites ideas and there are 300 ideas that are submitted. They are never looked into. And employees become less motivated."

Deliberating on  technology, Kao asks, "Is technology synonymous with innovation?"
"There are many businesses that have cropped up that do not have disruptive technology or engineering. Innovation is what people want. Innovation is a capability, not a wish," added Kao. "Innovation leads to value."

Kao holds an activity workshop. The audience is seen deliberating on the activity worksheet.

Kao is cutting his birthday cake at the MindRush 2013. 

Kao says all companies are in incremental innovation as well as in the disruptive innovation business. Jazz musicians have found the middle ground between incremental and disruptive innovation.

Kao plays birthday tune on the piano. Later, Kao said the piano notes he just played were all from his mind. He seeks to demonstrate the different ways piano can be played depending on the musician and the genre.