Innovointiaan

Innovointiaan is a term that emerged from Finnish innovation discourse, particularly in discussions surrounding public sector innovation and organizational development. It can be understood as a portmanteau combining "innovointi" (innovation) and "intiaan" (an archaic or colloquial term that can imply a deep understanding, expertise, or even a certain "native" or intrinsic quality related to something).

Essentially, innovointiaan suggests a profound and inherent capacity for innovation within an organization, community, or system. It goes beyond simply implementing innovation processes; it points to a culture where innovative thinking and practices are deeply ingrained and naturally occur. This implies that individuals and the collective are not just acting innovatively but possess an innate understanding and capability for it.

The concept often arises in contexts where traditional approaches to fostering innovation have fallen short. It suggests that true innovation requires more than external stimulation or structured programs; it necessitates a fundamental shift in mindset, values, and organizational DNA. Innovointiaan emphasizes the organic development of innovative potential, where creativity and problem-solving are not exceptions but the norm, driven by a deep-seated understanding of what it takes to innovate effectively within a specific context.