Innovation doesn't have to be complex – sometimes it's as simple as combining two things in a new way.

Yakkay, a Danish company, exemplifies this idea by revolutionising the bicycle helmet market.

They saw a problem: the traditional helmet design looked "daggy" and unattractive.

Yakkay approached the issue with a constructive mindset and asked themselves, "What could we combine with the helmet to make it more fashionable?"

Their answer was to combine the helmet with a hat, a solution that proved to be simple yet brilliant.

To make their idea a reality, Yakkay had to apply some "fix it" thinking. They reduced the size of the straps around the ears and modified the helmet shape to make it stylish without compromising safety. Their innovative solution has been a massive success and their helmets are now selling like hot cakes around the world.

• Spotify: Spotify combined the concept of streaming music with social media, allowing users to share their favorite music and playlists with friends.
• Uber: Uber combined the convenience of ride-sharing with the ease of mobile app technology, revolutionising the taxi industry.
• GoPro: GoPro combined the functionality of a camera with the durability and portability of an action sports accessory, creating a new market for extreme sports enthusiasts.
• Nike: Nike combined athletic footwear with technology, creating a line of smart shoes that can track fitness data and offer personalised coaching.
• Airbnb: Airbnb combined the sharing economy with travel accommodations, allowing individuals to rent out their homes and connect with travellers in a unique and personal way.

Sometimes, when it comes to innovating all it takes is a simple and creative approach to an existing problem to make a massive impact. So, start thinking outside the box and discover the possibilities that await.

One more thing that I want to share that I know can really help to accelerate your innovative business growth results is to work out what type of innovator you are.

I've got a FREE 3-minute quiz that will work out your innovation code and create a customised Innovation Playbook full of proven innovation hacks for your stage of innovation. You can do the quiz at innovationquiz.com. And the link is in the notes.

Thanks so much for reading and go and make your next brainstorming session prolific!

Cheers,
Nils

Founder, Innovation Keynote Speaker, Author


PS: Whether you’re looking for an innovation agency to improve your product with innovation, create an innovation disruption, or hack your business growth, we’re here to help.

Nils Vesk is a Four-Time Author and International Keynote Speaker. Nils has worked globally with over 200 bluechip companies including 3M, American Express, Canon, Caltex, Microsoft, Nestle´, IBM, Fuji Xerox, PWC, HP and Pfizer.