Yesterday I happily ran across a documentary on the Sundance Channel called Garbage Warrior - the story of radical architect Michael Reynolds, creator of the Earthship. The story follows the history of the eco-architect and the opportunities, inventions and obstacles that stood in his was as he tried to develop and explore the world of completely sustainable housing design.

Whether you're an eco-minded person or not, the story demonstrates realities that innovators of all kinds face. They are:

1. During times of comfort or relative prosperity, innovative thought is not valued as highly because true innovative thought will force change and most people, by nature, fear change and will aim to keep the status quo wherever possible. Right or wrong.
2. In times of crisis, innovation is welcomed with open arms. Once comfort, security or prosperity is removed from the picture, making changes is almost effortless.

I'll let you watch the film for yourself to hear Michael's story, because it's something that will leave an impression on you.

From a business perspective, I wonder where the point of balance is. How do you push a culturally entrenched organization to open itself to innovation after the start-up excitement wears off and before the company is in crisis. Because let's face it, sometimes when the crisis hits, it might be too late to innovate.