The HCMA (Healthcare Communication and Marketing Association) recently held its annual conference in Dallas. The HCMA sponsored its first-ever Innovation Workshop called, From Creativity to Innovation. Tim Sullivan with UNLEASH Buzz and I co-facilitated the workshop. Workshop participants gained a greater appreciation for the power of Innovation. To see what they accomplished, read an overview of the innovation workshop and results by clicking here.

Participants gained an understanding of the vital role that BIG ideas have in producing innovation that solves common key issues. Participants also previewed a new way for refining their brand called BIG IDEA FLOW. We will highlight this breakthrough in upcoming posts. The participants came away from the session ready to be innovation catalysts in their organizations.

Health-related marketing and communication professionals are beginning to appreciate the need for innovation - as Innovation drives growth. Creativity and brainstorming alone aren’t enough. It’s essential that we learn how to grow BIG ideas to drive innovation.

The community dialog we establish here is critical to helping us shape the future of healthcare. We need to change the way we work together - starting with our colleagues. How can we move from hording ideas out of fear to collaboration, and develop collective thoughts and ideas into quality results? Let’s find a way to work as one and build solutions that benefit all stakeholders.

Now is the time for breakthroughs. You have the capability. Know that BIG ideas are the cornerstone of success. Creating an innovation culture takes BIG ideas. Take the first step. Check your BIG Idea Health: How many new ideas does your organization produce per week? How do you review ideas? How do you develop BIG ideas? These are just some of the questions we’ll be answering in upcoming posts.

Join us as we discover the secrets of BIG IDEA GROWTH.

• So, how do you come up with BIG ideas?

Add your answer in a comment below. We will highlight the most intriguing answers and cover them in upcoming podcasts. We will be inviting community members to join us as we think aloud. Stay tuned and help spread the word about Healthcare BIG IDEA GROWTH. We are here to help you grow.

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