Guerrilla Innovation — The Accelerated Radical Innovation Model Meets The Real World

The Accelerated Radical Innovation (ARI) methodology, an integrated approach to shepherding radical innovation from initial concept through commercialization, was compared to the approach used by an investor-funded seed-stage innovation incubation firm. Similarities include traversal of the same major stages of innovation, emphasis on front-end analysis before escalating commitments, and using an extended "probe-and-learn" process. Key differences were in emphasis. The ARI model relies on analysis and intelligence gleaned from external sources, while ConduIT views each innovation project as unique, requiring tailored responses that will not be found elsewhere. And while the ARI model relies on a structured process, ConduIT favors a more intuitive, people-centered approach. The message for ARI is to become more flexible and adaptable to each innovation's uniquenesses. For ConduIT the challenges are increasing portfolio turnover and scaling up, which will require a more repeatable, teachable, standardized process such as the ARI model.