Invention and Innovation

One of the most important concepts, or better, difference between concepts, when analysing the present society and its changes is the one between Invention and Innovation. I'm not completely sure about one the best definition for each of these words is but what I'm absolutely sure is that the difference is clear, once analysed, and easy to understand. When we talk about innovation we usually think in the changes that mean the fact that things are done, from its appearing, slightly differently, either for a new machine or for a new process. Maybe the change is not revolutionary itself, and usually are the kind of things that we see as logical and that we say "How can be that nobody has thought on it before?". Examples of these are kind of innovation are the Ikea way of selling furniture (dismounted and in packages) or the delivery of prepared food to home. Invention, in another way, mean to us something not thought or not done before. A machine or tool able to make something not done before (like a light bulb) or a light saber.
An invention can produce and innovation, but it is not necessary. Also an innovation could be based in an invention but it couldn't. Those concepts are complementaries but do not mean the same, although sometimes we tend to misuse them. The main difference between Invention and Innovation, to return to the start of the post, is the fact that innovation has consequences in the performance. When the concept innovation is used we are saying that things are done with less effort or in less time, or lately in a cleaner way. The use of a lighting screwdriver can be fun, but it is hardly going to mean that the electrician will fix the TV in less time. If something can be done, formally a process, with less effort it can be an innovation, though no revolutionary invention is used. Think in the no-stock production of automation plants. The simple fact of having no stock and receive the goods just in time provided the producers a way to reduce costs and time in the car making process.

To end with, just think that sometimes small changes, although not revolutionary in itself, could give a footprint of colosal dimensions. Or haven't you heard the story on the flying olive?