Malaria is a well-known, deadly disease that has been torturing humanity for ages. The combat against this disease is an ongoing fight, but a Dutch research group decided to approach the problem from a totally different angle, and developed an innovative and promising approach.
Instead of focussing on treating and curing patients or attacking the mosquitos (who, after getting the parasite from a patient infect other people), they focus on fighting the parasite and so preventing the infection of mosquitos; thereby targeting the spreading of the disease. As the mosquitos themselves only live for about 3 weeks, this means that (once trials are successful and the resources are there to work this out on a global scale) we might be able to combat malaria for once and for all within a considerable timeframe.
The idea is great, a typical example of thinking out-of-the-box — being creative with the knowledge you have and taking a different perspective. Research and trials are well on their way, and the funding that epidemiologist Teun Bousema recently received through the Gates award gives him the opportunity to develop this concept in what may become a groundbreaking project writing history.
N -- allround & all around 
How companies can nurture innovation and motivate their talents to bring innovations forward?
Each company is destined to get the results it gets. What I mean by this is that poor organization, lack of solid and sustainable innovation culture lead to poor results, and more than before, to a company’s trouble or death.
Smart business leaders shape the culture of their company to drive innovation. Success and constant positive results come from the implementation and execution of strategies, business models, structure, processes, technologies and incentive systems that encourage innovation.
If you would like to read more about learning innovation, you can access to my blog on: http://worldofinnovations.net/2014/08/11/7-ways-to-create-a-culture-of-innovation/
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Hi Olivier,
Thanks for your comment. I find that creativity and innovation often come through unexpected angles or combinations. Hence, to perform on the edge of innovation I think point 5 in your post [ http://worldofinnovations.net/2013/04/15/6-ways-to-unleash-creativity-in-the-workplace/ ] is key. Better even, recruit people who themselves possess this unexpected combination (i.e. special academic combinations).
To comment on your specific approach on companies. My experience taught me that oftentimes the disconnect or ‘gap’ between managing and executive staff is very demotivating to employees – bridging that gap occurs to me as essential in creating an optimal motivation in the working environment.
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Thanks for your reply. I agree with you. This is why Steering Committee on Innovation with executive management is key to beyond beyond the red lines companies have in mind. This should help to avoid any demotivation. Don’t hesitate to see my blog : http://www.worldofinnovations.net
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