How to Keep Innovation on Track

Many companies face unexpected growth slowdowns. Everything seems fine—until revenue stops growing. Gartner says 85% of these slowdowns are avoidable, and poor innovation management is a major cause.

When innovation is poorly managed, investments in new products and services don’t pay off. This can wipe out up to 68% of a company’s value.

Here are 4 ways to avoid it:

1. Assess your R&D portfolio
   Compare current projects with past performance to spot weaknesses and reduce risk.

2. Find the gaps
   Make sure your current projects align with long-term goals—not just short-term needs.

3. Link innovation to results
   Show clearly how changes in your portfolio impact overall business growth.

4. Watch for lack of focus
   Frequent strategy changes or lack of commitment to key projects are red flags.

Growth slowdowns aren’t caused by fate—they come from weak strategy or poor innovation design. Stay focused and manage innovation well to keep your business growing.

📌 Based on the article by Jackie Wiles for Gartner: “How and Why to Keep Innovation Management on Track” (January 16, 2020). Available at gartner.com