In many workplaces, you’ll often hear comments like, “She’s the idea person,” or “He’s all about the details.” Intuitively, we understand that solving problems or bringing new products to life involves a range of tasks, and that different people naturally gravitate toward different parts of the process.

But intuition alone isn’t enough when it comes to building high-performing, innovative teams.

For more than 40 years, we’ve learned that understanding the distinct stages of innovation is key to unlocking a team’s full potential. More importantly, recognizing which individuals thrive in each stage helps ensure that every part of the process is covered.

Here’s how the four styles break down:

  • Generators thrive on exploring new possibilities. They’re skilled at identifying problems and spotting opportunities others might miss.
  • Conceptualizers excel at making sense of complex issues. They define problems clearly and develop strong, innovative ideas.
  • Optimizers bring critical thinking to the table. They analyze and refine ideas, identifying the best paths forward.
  • Implementers are the doers. They focus on execution, translating plans into results with attention to detail and follow-through.

Problems arise when teams are stacked too heavily in one area. A group full of generators or conceptualizers may produce an abundance of ideas but struggle to move them into action. On the other hand, a team dominated by implementers might leap into execution too quickly, skipping vital stages of idea development and refinement.

There’s no one-size-fits-all formula—the optimal mix of thinking and problem-solving styles depends on the team’s purpose, project scope, and even the broader economic climate. In times of uncertainty, innovation becomes essential. However, even in stable conditions, understanding and leveraging the different ways people think and work can lead to better outcomes.

When individuals understand their own preferences and learn how to collaborate with teammates who think differently, they contribute to more dynamic, productive, and adaptable teams. That’s the power of applied innovation.

At Basadur Applied Innovation, we specialize in helping leaders and organizations develop the adaptability and creativity required to succeed in today’s unpredictable business world. Our proven methodologies empower teams to generate innovative solutions, conceptualize transformative ideas, and implement impactful changes.

Drive innovation and adaptability in your organization. CONTACT Basadur Applied Innovation to discover how we can help you build a future-proof strategy for sustained success.