I recently had the honor of addressing the Ideas Arabia subgroup, which functions under the Dubai Quality Group (DQG) and Dubai Municipality. This recent seminar focused on the importance of innovation in the Middle East, and the most effective ways to generate innovative ideas that will benefit both public and private organizations. I was pleased to share my knowledge of modern idea generation tools with this esteemed group.

It is important to remember, though, that idea generation is only one step in the process of successful innovation.

The first step in the innovation process is often overlooked, and that is to define the problem for which you need innovative solutions. Often, organizations start with a mandate to “be more innovative” or “develop an innovative product or service offering.” Such vague directives may result in a burst of short-term creativity, but ultimately, innovation that does not solve a problem (either internally or for customers) is not true innovation.

Fortunately, in Dubai and througout the Arab world, business and government leaders are intent on using innovation — and idea generation — for a real advantage (as opposed to those who would simply talk about innovation and not actually achieve anything). I have no doubt my colleages in the Middle East are open to a process for innovation that will yield the greatest results.