Diana Stevenson-Moore
Store Designer
Lululemon
I’m going to warn you now – I’ve never been great at following the rules.
(Were not rules made to be broken?)
The difference between creativity and innovation is subtle, but I have always loved the quote from Theodore Levitt which I feel succinctly sums it up:
Creativity is thinking up new things. Innovation is doing new things. T. Levitt article Creativity Is Not Enough
| BASIS FOR COMPARISON | CREATIVITY | INNOVATION |
| Process | Imaginative | Productive |
| Quantifiable | No | Yes |
| Money Consumption | No | Yes |
| Risk | No | Yes |
I’m going to avoid discussing what I feel are the obvious choices for this point in time – Tesla, Space X, Alphabet, GE. Historically, I feel there are far more influential examples: Ford & GE. My favorite quote from Henry Ford: “If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses.” I believe this analogy remains relevant as society doesn’t know what they want until they see it.
As a designer – I have to admit that I share Ford’s approach to colour. “Any customer can have a car painted any colour that he wants so long as it is black.” When I did a quick Wiki search to make sure I was quoting him correctly, I came across the following gem, which is exactly inline with one of the strategies of this project:
Failure is only the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently. There is no disgrace in honest failure; there is disgrace in fearing to fail. Henry Ford
However, in my opinion, what ranks as the most innovating innovative isn’t a single company, but all the companies that are involved in the development of 3D printing technology. This technology will soon be as ubiquitous in our homes as the microwave, and has the potential to revolutionize the consumerist system of planned obsolescence.
Setting aside the massive ramifications that these machines will have on the consumers’ behavior, it will redefine how we approach the use, recycling and disposal of materials.
I am my unique contribution – I don’t have one singular skill that sets me apart, rather I have a combination of education, experience and exposure to a wide breadth of countries, industries and specialties that will make me a positive and powerful contributor to this project.
To make the most of that $5000, I would use it for a Microloan program in a developing country with high poverty rates, such as the Favelas of Rio de Janeiro. This strategy is considered to have originated with the Grameen Bank founded in Bangladesh in 1983; they report that repayment success rates are between 95 and 98 percent. With this return on investment, we could continue to invest and improve the community, and maybe have them work for us!
My superpower is my capability to adapt; this is invaluable in the perpetual problem solving involved in my role as a Store Designer. I’m constantly having to adapt to meet a new (often last minute) requirements or outcomes; to address unforeseen conditions; or to re-strategize to meet budget or timeline. It is this flexibility and willingness to embrace change that makes me a valuable team member to any creative and innovative project.
Stephen Fry and Winston Churchill at the El Bulli restaurant in Catalonia, Spain. – I’m answering this question entirely selfishly and not aimed at the Project 50 intent. Yes, they’re both famous fat white Englishmen – but both share my love of scotch and would make incredible dinner conversation.
I have always been fascinated with history and in particular how the World Wars have influenced the modern world. One could argue that Winston was one of the most important leaders in this crisis. His ability to predict the actions of others was prophetic, and his dedication to the British Empire as well as the other Nations fell victim to tyranny was extraordinary.
Is best known for his comedy, but he’s also a Humanitarian. I have to admit, my obsession with him stems from watching hours of QI – a program that I consider to be one of the most entertaining on television, next to Games of Thrones and 30 Rock. His witty banter is always a mix of the ridiculous and and the product of his great intellect. And I’m always a sucker for a good pun! That aside, he has lead a fascinating life, overcoming personal struggles with bipolar disorder and advocating for equality.
I have always heard the reports that this restaurant was one of the best in the world, and although it closed back in 2011 before turning into a “creativity lab” – if I get to pick anywhere – then I choose this controversial restaurant with the beautiful view.