Innovation Cheat Sheet

[IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a brief preparatory reference for the convenience of my podcast guests, so the reader may find the tone to be somewhat directive. I am making it available publicly should it be useful to others, but please keep this context in mind when reading]

Navigating Innovation: A Guide for unNatural Selection Guests

Welcome to unNatural Selection. In our conversation, we explore how companies adapt, compete, and thrive in fast-evolving environments—just like organisms in nature. To anchor our discussion, here’s a quick overview of the innovation strategy frameworks we draw on. These ideas offer a shared vocabulary to help us explore how innovation really works in your world.

1. Innovation Strategy Types

By Henderson & Clark / HBS

We use this model to understand how your innovations challenge or build upon existing technologies and business models.

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Type

What It Means

B

T

Example

Routine

Builds on existing technology and business model.

ø

ø

Upgrades to a smartphone’s camera.

Disruptive

Uses new business models to reach overlooked markets, often with simpler tech.

✓

ø

Netflix disrupting Blockbuster.

Radical

Introduces entirely new technologies but within an existing business model.

ø

✓

mRNA vaccines by pharma companies.

Architectural

Reconfigures existing tech into a new system or platform, changing relationships.

✓

✓

Apple's iPhone merging phone, camera, and apps.

* B = Requires New Business Model. T = Requires New Technical Capabilities.

We’ll explore which of these types best describes your innovations—and what survival strategies they demand.

2. Ten Types of Innovation

By Doblin Group Framework

This framework zooms out to show where innovation can happen across your organization. It’s not just about products—it’s about strategy, systems, and experiences.

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Three Broad Categories:

• Configuration (How you work)

  • Profit Model – How you make money

  • Network – Partnerships and alliances

  • Structure – Talent and assets

  • Process – Signature ways of doing things

• Offering (What you offer)

  • Product Performance – Features and functionality

  • Product System – Bundles and ecosystems

• Experience (How customers interact)

  • Service – Enhancements to support value

  • Channel – How offerings reach users

  • Brand – Perception and reputation

  • Customer Engagement – Meaningful interactions and relationships

We’ll ask: where in this map does your innovation live? And where might it still be unlocked?

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Eg. Disruptive innovations in Uber’s original offering and business model.

Why This Matters

Evolution favors not just the strongest, but the most adaptable. Whether you're a restaurateur, biotech CEO, or founder in fintech, your innovation strategy defines your survival traits.

Let’s explore how you outmaneuver competitors, adapt to shifting environments, and evolve your edge.

Read more at: Systematized Innovation - Part 3