Innovation power can be measured. The metrics are a little unique, that�s all. Don�t you expect that? Here are some ideas for an innovation dashboard. Each metric is keyed to one of the principles of innovation. The relative importance of the metrics will vary according to whether your idea pertains to your own work, someone else's job, or a new area. Try the metrics out on your favorite innovative thought. Under "score," enter a (+) or a (-), depending upon whether you are doing well or poorly against the metric, then compute the sum to see how well you are doing overall and to see where you need to change your thinking. A negative total score indicates your idea is in trouble, a positive one, you are moving ahead. Print the page before you leave - we're not keeping your ideas.

The Metrics of Innovation
Score + / -	Principle	ENTER IDEA TITLE & DATE HERE: Metric
	negotiation	I have examined a large number of innovative ideas recently.
	vision	My idea has a high oddity factor.
	courage	I propose many ideas to others.
	stewardship	I have permission to do a pilot.
	propagation	The number of people involved is increasing.
	synergism	My idea requires unique teamwork.
	purpose	I'm satisfied this has real value.
	empowerment	I've been put in charge or appropriated it.
	simplification	A reduced number of steps or people will result from my idea.
	strategy	I have roused a collaborator or sponsor.
	competition	I can identify a challenger.
	leadership	I will keep the pressure on until I get what I need.
	freedom	My idea will receive a fair, timely hearing.
	opposition	Somebody already said no.
	rewards	I have identified something personally valuable in the idea.
	source	I am close to where the results can be felt.
	development	I have invested in personal scholarship of the idea.
	customer focus	I forsee the effects on my customers and myself.
	safety	I have considered the possibility for unintended consequences.
	failure	I have a confidant to whom I intend to be responsible.
	pilots/seeds	I have thought of a creative way to test my idea.
	keep cash cow	I'm keeping current alternatives running until the new idea thrives.
	metrics	I have a good way of tracking progress on my idea.
	interfaces	I am actively managing my key people interfaces well.
	innovarium	I have read or learned something new about innovation recently.
	money $$	Cost is not deterring me from moving ahead.
	sponsor	I can identify a sure sponsor right now.
	types	I'm good at handling ideas differently based on who they affect.
	transfers	I plan to stay involved with my idea longer than in the past.
	nurture (sex)	I plan to protect my idea while nourishing its development.
Sum + -	Net Score [with sign]	Print this page before you leave - we're not keeping your idea!