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The Bias Against “Pure Physics”: Understanding the Overlook of Simple and Effective Solutions

In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, simple and effective solutions are often overlooked in favor of more complex or high-tech alternatives. This bias against pure physics solutions is prevalent across various industries, hindering innovation and efficiency. By understanding who rejects these solutions and why, we can better promote the value of simplicity. Who Tends to […]

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Recognizing the “Hammer” Approach in Industrial R&D Leadership

Leadership is crucial in industrial research and development (R&D), driving innovation and efficiency. However, a common challenge impeding progress is the “hammer” approach, where leaders rely too heavily on familiar methods and solutions. This tendency can stifle creativity and hinder the adoption of new ideas, ultimately affecting the overall success of R&D initiatives. Recognizing and

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Psychological Inertia and Its Impact on the Efficiency of Industrial R&D

Introduction Industrial research and development (R&D) is the cornerstone of innovation, driving progress and competitiveness in various sectors. However, one often overlooked factor influencing the efficiency of industrial R&D is psychological inertia. This phenomenon, rooted in cognitive psychology, refers to the tendency of individuals or groups to stick with familiar approaches and resist change. This

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Breaking the ‘Smartest in the Room’ Syndrome: How Dominant R&D Leaders Stifle Innovation

In industrial research and development (R&D), leadership dynamics are crucial for fostering innovation and efficiency. However, when an R&D leader strives to be the smartest person in the room, it can harm the team’s performance and organizational success. It’s important to distinguish this behaviour from the “hammer” approach. While “hammer” leaders rely heavily on familiar

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Navigating the R&D Horizon: From Technical Mastery to Strategic Brilliance

Introduction In research and development (R&D), technical skills have traditionally been the cornerstone of effective leadership. However, as the innovation landscape evolves, R&D leaders must pivot from being mere technical experts to becoming strategic visionaries. This shift is crucial for fostering an environment that encourages creativity, collaboration, and sustainable innovation. The Changing Role of R&D

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From Chaos to Clarity: How Cannabis Companies Can Innovate Smarter?

The cannabis industry faces unique challenges, particularly in an oversaturated market. Many companies continue to struggle by clinging to two common misconceptions: 🔗 The Entourage Effect Hoping that synergistic medical benefits alone will secure success is risky. While the science could be compelling, markets demand more than theoretical advantages. Even fluoride toothpaste, with its proven

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Post 20. Mere Exposure Effect – Breaking Free from Familiarity in R&D

Introduction The mere exposure effect is a cognitive bias where individuals tend to favor things simply because they are familiar. In R&D, this bias can lead to an over-reliance on familiar ideas, technologies, or processes, even when newer solutions might offer better outcomes. In this newsletter, we’ll examine the impact of mere exposure on R&D

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Post 8. Overcoming Status Quo Bias in R&D – Balancing Stability and Innovation

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, clinging to established practices in R&D is more than just a comfort zone—it’s a potential liability. Status quo bias, the tendency to favor existing methods over change, can stifle innovation, accumulate unseen risks, and allow competitors to surge ahead. However, overcoming this bias doesn’t mean pursuing change for its

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Post 18. Action Bias – Avoiding Premature Decisions in R&D

Introduction In R&D, teams often feel pressure to act quickly. But moving fast isn’t always moving smart. A McKinsey study found that 30% of R&D costs stem from premature decisions—rushed pivots, incomplete testing, and scrapped innovations. The real challenge isn’t just avoiding action bias; it’s balancing strategic patience with timely execution. Consider two biotech companies:

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Post 19. Stereotyping Bias – Challenging Preconceived Notions in R&D

For years, Intel dominated the semiconductor industry, believing that CPUs would remain the foundation of computing power. Meanwhile, NVIDIA, once known mainly for gaming graphics, saw the future differently—investing heavily in GPUs for AI and high-performance computing. Intel initially dismissed GPUs as a niche technology, assuming they wouldn’t challenge CPUs for broader applications. Today, NVIDIA

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