Book Review: Mapping Innovation by Greg Satell

Mapping Innovation by Greg Satell is an incredibly engaging and well-researched read, offering valuable insights into the complex world of innovation. This is a book that doesn’t just skim the surface but dives deep into the mechanisms that drive true innovation, making it a must-read for anyone interested in creating meaningful change in their business or industry. Each page is packed with fascinating concepts and real-world examples, making it hard to put down.

One of the standout ideas in the book is Satell’s emphasis on the fact that innovation is a multi-faceted process. He shares several memorable lines that perfectly capture the essence of innovation. A particularly thought-provoking quote is: “It takes many ideas to solve a problem.” This idea resonates throughout the book, underlining the importance of diverse perspectives and collaboration in the innovation process.

I was particularly taken by Satell’s example of Penicillium rebrum, which illustrates how even when an innovative solution is developed, the job is far from complete. For an idea to truly have an impact, it must be widely adopted. Satell emphasizes that innovation doesn’t end with the creation of a new product or solution — it is only successful if it becomes part of a larger ecosystem of discovery, engineering, and transformation. This message aligns with one of the book’s key takeaways: to make an impact, you need to involve and tap into the entire ecosystem.