10 Feb 2025 Nip Impressions--Innovation Optimism

"The Danger of Innovation Optimism," cautions

against the pitfalls of overly optimistic views on new ideas. He argues that

initial enthusiasm often overlooks practical challenges and unforeseen costs,

leading to wasted resources. Thompson uses a personal anecdote about a

seemingly successful, yet ultimately wasteful, in-house innovation—an

"underground railroad" system for a paper mill—to illustrate his

point. The story highlights how even well-intentioned innovations can fail to

deliver promised efficiencies and may even necessitate costly dismantling later

on. The essay ultimately advocates for a more measured and realistic approach

to innovation, emphasizing careful consideration of details and potential

problems.