"I simply brought together what already existed, in a different way." - How many times have we heard this from someone who created something new?
If there's one thing that distinguishes creative individuals, it's their ability to associate seemingly unrelated things that others don't see and transform them into something new. Let's take a look.
Apple invented the iPhone by combining a series of existing technologies and solutions into a single device, including the touchscreen, the storage system of the iPod, and the intuitive interface of personal computers, completely transforming the way people interact with their phones. Cirque du Soleil reinvented the traditional circus concept by connecting elements from circus arts, theater, and other performing arts, creating a new type of show with a central theme and narrative. And in Portugal, Mateus Rosé wine captured consumers beyond borders with its rounded bottle, inspired by the shape of a soldier's canteen, which allowed it to stand out on the shelf and created a story that is still told worldwide.
Innovative ideas often result from the intersection of ideas from different areas of knowledge, industries, and/or geographies. Frans Johansson called it the "Medici Effect" and dedicated an entire book with this title to the intersection of various areas of knowledge and different cultures, inspired by the role of the Medici family in cultural and artistic evolution during the Renaissance.
Creativity doesn't arise out of nothing.
Creative individuals draw on the diversity of ideas, inspirations, information, experiences, and knowledge from unrelated areas, which they acquire through their own observation, curiosity, experimentation, and interactions with others.
We believe that this ability to find non-obvious connections to develop innovative ideas is not only within the reach of great visionaries, but also individuals, teams, and companies can cultivate it.
First and foremost, by proactively nurturing their curiosity and exposing themselves to very different contexts. This includes regular contact and exchange of ideas with creative individuals from other areas of knowledge, industries, geographies, or even different generations. If this is the first step, the second is to create the conditions for "cross-pollination" of ideas and for creative connections to emerge. It is essential to keep the mind and spirit open for this to happen.
That's why, at Mindtree, we like to gather open-minded and curious people from different specialties or backgrounds, different generations, origins, and contexts, with whom we seek inspiration and share ideas.
After all, our motto is Connecting the Dots.
Rute Sousa
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