Operating Principle

2–4 min read

Innovation Happens One Step Beyond Current Capability

Innovation Happens One Step Beyond Current Capability

Innovation Happens One Step Beyond Current Capability

Breakthroughs usually emerge one adjacent step beyond current capability.

Breakthroughs usually emerge one adjacent step beyond current capability.

Breakthroughs usually emerge one adjacent step beyond current capability.

The adjacent possible defines what tools and knowledge make reachable now.

The adjacent possible defines what tools and knowledge make reachable now.

The adjacent possible defines what tools and knowledge make reachable now.

The adjacent possible defines what tools and knowledge make reachable now.

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Operating Question

What assumption, incentive, capability, or handoff is determining whether this innovation can progress?

What assumption, incentive, capability, or handoff is determining whether this innovation can progress?

What assumption, incentive, capability, or handoff is determining whether this innovation can progress?

Why It Matters

The adjacent possible defines what tools and knowledge make reachable now.

Supporting Evidence

Stuart Kauffman; Steven Johnson.

Research Notes

Match the innovation approach to uncertainty, capital intensity, and the stage of commercialization.

Practical Actions

Find newly possible steps; test ecosystem readiness; avoid leapfrogging prerequisites.

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