Case Studies
Real-world deployment of cutting-edge innovation practices
Knowledge-Focused Decision-Making
Merle Kummer, Principal Kummer Consulting LLC
I’d like to share a real story about moving a biopharma team from cross-functional conflict to creative problem-solving. By thoughtfully applying concepts from cognitive science and decision strategy, a team member can focus a group on the knowledge that counts for making sound decisions.
Break Down Organizational Silos
Merle Kummer, Principal Kummer Consulting LLC
When one group thinks that another doesn’t get it, the other group invariably thinks the same of them.
To break the cycle, leaders can practice a new mindset. They reframe others from “they don’t get it” to “they see it differently.” They seek to learn, not just to convince.
From Phase-Driven to Hypothesis-Driven R&D
Merle Kummer, Principal, Kummer Consulting LLC
The traditional mindset of drug development – advancing candidates from phase to phase – often prevents companies from investing resources wisely. Scientists, managers and investors focus their energy on meeting milestones, distracting them from the real question: have we advanced knowledge on how to deliver value to patients?
Mechanisms of Innovation
Merle Kummer, Principal, Kummer Consulting LLC
To bring novel treatments to market, organizations must integrate knowledge from domains as distant as molecular biology is from clinical trial design. Synthesizing knowledge across disciplines is the central mechanism of innovation delivery, but few organizations are designed to do it.