In my doctoral research on Organisational Creativity I spent some time researching the Four Corners program at the ABC (in Australia). During this time I conducted many interviews in the staff canteen (when the ABC was at Gore Hill) and I noticed something that became an important insight in my research. The staff canteen was perhaps the most creative place and space at the ABC. It was a hub of spontaneous interactions, with people (literally) bumping into one another which might prompt a new thought or connection.
 
These interactions were fun, informal and often quick. People met in a casual way and discussed their new ideas over a sandwich. There were no barriers as the so-called stars of the network had to line up for their lunch like everyone else.
 
My message? In the quest for innovation, most managers only concentrate on building a formal, stage-gate system and tend to ignore an equally important part–the informal system. This is where new concepts can emerge outside the formal structure and it directly influences culture. It is no use creating a big, bold idea if no-one is open to a new direction or of the culture is risk-adverse.
 
Whenever I work with a new organisation I always try and feel the informal part of their innovation system. If this does not feel right then no amount of tinkering with the formal innovation process will work.
 
In short, staff canteens and other informal meeting places really matter–protect and encourage these.

Where are the informal innovation places at your work? Are these valued and nurtured?