Taking the team of a large utility company in the GCC through a 12 weeks exploration journey using the forth innovation methodology. The systematic approach to innovation, as well as the playfull approach allowed to break organizational silos, increase collaboration and creativity.

The approach followed the Forth Innovation Method. FORTH is an acronym found in the first letter of each of the 5 steps of the method: Full Steam Ahead, Observe & Learn, Raise Ideas, Test Ideas and Homecoming. The methodology is using a combination of Design Thinking and Business Excellence.

Similar to other methodologies we started by defining a focus for the innovation journey and agreed on our model of engagement. The journey started with uncovering user needs and pain points in the selected focus areas, as well as gathering more insights about the problem area and solution alternatives. Design thinking helped us here develop a better understanding of the end-user. We used then different techniques to come up with original and disruptive ideas. Focus groups and other forms of validation helped us strengthen ideas and turn the strongest once into fully fledged business concepts. Continuous validation helped us refine both our understanding of the problem, solution and business model. High level business cases where then developed and the top ideas where pitched to management.

During the journey about 400 ideas where generated, validated through customer focus groups. Ultimately 6 concepts were selected and supporting business cases were developed and validated by the leadership team. Shortly after one of the ideas was already taken into production.