"The Myths of Innovation" review & discussion

A generation ago, Peter Drucker coined the term "knowledge worker" to describe someone whose job involves developing and manipulating information, rather than material goods. An important part of successfully performing these jobs is the ability to be creative, or to thrive in a creative environment. Scott Berkun's The Myths of Innovation (TMOI) helpfully demystifies and de-mythologizes the creative process, providing historical background as well as practical guidance for today's knowledge worker.

Berkun clearly did a vast amount of research, and has done an admirable job of synthesizing lessons from the fields of business, history, and technology into such an engagingly readable package. He has an affable style that is accessible, at times funny ("Get out of my office/cave now") and—appropriately for the subject—a little nerdy. It's certainly the first mainstream business book I've read that contains a (footnoted!) reference to D&D saving throws.

As much as I enjoyed it, it's also true that TMOI isn't universally accessible in the way that it is for someone who works in high-tech. If one's job or primary personal interests (hobbies, etc.) don't involve creativity, this book probably won't be a gift that they'll treasure.

On the other hand, artists and entrepreneurs — would-be as well as practicing — will find all sorts of validation and inspiration in the book's pages, as well as some useful advice on the pitfalls to avoid. TMOI helps us focus on learning to frame problems correctly and, most importantly, committing to the necessary work that separates innovators from also-rans. If you're considering a new creative venture of any type, in your professional or personal life, TMOI is an absolute must-read.

This Week on Book Club

In the week to come we'll drill down into some of the book's specific lessons, including:

• The fallacy of epiphany (Mon. 6/21) - on the folly of dismissing evolutionary progress
• "Begin it now." - exploring the genius and magic inherent in starting things
• (TBA 3rd party contribution)
• Ready... set... be creative! - A practical guide for becoming an idea factory
  

Discussion Topics

To start things off I'd like to ask you to share your general impressions. Feel free to address any, several, or none at all of the following:

• What did you think of the book?
• Did TMOI inspire you? Leave you cold?
• Do you know of any other myths of innovation that weren't in the book?
  
• Should your boss read TMOI? What effect might it have?
• What creative projects are you planning to start in the next few years, personally or professionally? How might the lessons from TMOI help you?

Thank you for taking the time!