A formal definition might sound like “People innovation is about combining novelty, value, and execution to optimize performance, culture, climate, engagement, leadership, and organizational development.”

People innovation requires a dramatic, conscious commitment to purposefully designing and cultivating the proper conditions for business success. It’s about applying scientific insights and fostering experimentation. It’s about creating an inspired, focused, self-aware community where both internal and external stakeholders can rally around your purpose and create value in their own way and in their own voice.

It’s about becoming the organization that competitors envy because you’re always stealing their talent and market share: everyone wants to work both with you and for you.

Most importantly, it’s about demonstrating that people are your most valuable asset.