Research Will Sometimes Tell You It’s a Just a Bad Idea

Organizations often research to fill in key data around what they feel is sure to be a winning idea. Usually, that’s what happens. However, sometimes, what feels like a winning idea is just one that won’t fly or isn’t pragmatic from a business perspective. Don’t be afraid to give it up if it is.

Other things to keep in mind:

Often, data that shows an idea is not feasible will illuminate a possibility elsewhere.
“Bad” might mean “bad at this time or circumstance,” not forever.
Don’t be afraid to stand up for the research. An idea is often someone’s baby, but you are not doing them favours if you reinforce their beliefs when the data doesn’t.
This outcome isn’t a failure of research; it’s a benefit. You’ve potentially saved the company a tremendous amount of money.

Scott Plewes

Chief Strategy Officer

Over the past twenty-five years, Scott has worked in the areas of business strategy, product design and development in the high tech sector with a specialization in experience design. He has extensive cross-sector expertise and experience working with clients in complex regulated industries such as aviation, telecom, health, and finance. His primary area of focus over the last several years has been in product and service strategy and the integration of multi-disciplinary teams and methods. Scott has a master's degree in Theoretical Physics from Queen's University.