Beyond Binary: Rethinking Innovation Decisions

I recently came across a post that framed decision-making about new ideas in a highly binary way: either eliminate them or let them proceed without any safeguards. At first glance, this appears great because of its decisiveness. However, my experience has shown me how much nuance is lost in that black-and-white approach.

Innovation, especially in regulated and fast-changing industries like cannabis, seldom thrives at extremes. Shutting down every idea risks stagnation, while allowing unchecked ideas can lead to chaos. The real innovation happens in the middle ground, and that’s where a strong stage gate system comes in.

The Power of "Yes, But…" and "Not Yet…"

A well-structured stage-gate model enables leaders to move beyond binary thinking. Instead of a blunt “yes” or “no,” we can say:

• “Yes, but here’s what needs to be validated first.”

• “Not right now, but if you bring back answers to these questions, we’ll revisit it.”

This approach maintains momentum while enforcing discipline. It offers innovators clear feedback loops, promoting refinement instead of abandonment. Importantly, it shows respect for both the idea and the person behind it, fostering a culture where creativity is challenged, not dismissed.

Where Agile Meets Stage Gate

On the surface, agile methodologies and stage gate systems may seem incompatible. Agile highlights flexibility and iteration, while stage gate stresses structure and checkpoints. However, in practice, they work well together beautifully.

Agile teams succeed when there’s clarity about what’s being tested and why. Stage gates establish that clarity by setting the criteria for moving forward. Together, they create a rhythm: experiment quickly, review progress, adjust as needed. In cannabis, where regulatory compliance is essential and consumer demand shifts rapidly, this hybrid approach is necessary.

Cannabis Innovation Needs Guardrails

The cannabis industry is constantly evolving, with numerous bold ideas, innovative product formats, advanced cultivation techniques, and cutting-edge retail experiences emerging. However, without discipline, good ideas can fall apart due to regulatory pressures, operational mistakes, or scaling issues. This is why it's crucial to adopt a nuanced, structured approach to innovation decisions, as the risks of not doing so can include [list potential risks of not adopting the proposed approach].

At Organigram and through my consulting work, I’ve seen firsthand how stage gates create a safe path for innovation. They don’t hinder creativity; they guide it. They help teams strike a balance between compliance and speed, risk and opportunity. This balance is crucial for sustainable growth in the cannabis industry, enabling organizations to continue saying “yes” to innovation in a way that is sustainable, measurable, and aligned with long-term goals and strategy.

Final Thought

Binary decision-making may seem efficient, but it often sacrifices innovation. By combining stage-gate discipline with agile execution, cannabis companies can nurture a culture that is both bold and adaptable, yet deliberate.

Innovation doesn’t have to be a coin toss between “go” or “stop.” Sometimes, the best answer is “yes, but…” This approach inspires a culture of openness to new ideas, fostering innovation in the cannabis industry.