Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Infinite Monkeys


The Infinite Monkey theory says that if you give monkeys long enough with a typewriter, they will eventurally type the full works of Shakspeare. It's an interesting theory, but how long do you have to wait for that to happen? Many people are pre-occupied with the size of an organization. Certainly, size has something to do with production capability. But size has very little to do with creativity or innovation. In fact, size may restrict creativity and innovation.

Even the largest organizations break up into smaller groups to innovate and create. The basic reason is that the larger the group, the more difficult it is to be creative. Creativity requires risk. Large groups generally discourage risk and favor systemic solutions. They're safer.

So the next time you're looking for a creative solution to a problem ask yourself if you want a room full of monkeys of five good minds.

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