The Hexagon of Ideas
The Intricate Web of Innovation: After X, What is Next?
Innovation is an unending journey, a perpetual quest that propels us into the future. The question that perpetually echoes in our endeavors is: “After X, what is next?” It is not merely a question but a philosophy, urging us to look beyond the present, beyond the established, and into a future of boundless possibilities and uncharted territories.
The Idea Hexagon: A Framework for Innovation
The Idea Hexagon is a conceptual framework that to navigate through the multifaceted world of invention. It encompasses various strategies, such as:
- Generalizing to Another Dimension (X to Xd): Extending existing concepts into new dimensions, such as evolving data to text, audio, images, and video.
- Fusion of the Dissimilar (X + Y): Merging disparate concepts to create novel solutions, exemplified by the combination of a CT Machine and a Telescope to conceptualize a Portable CT.
- Finding All Nails for a Hammer (X): Utilizing a single technology or concept to solve multiple problems, akin to how the Femto-Photography technique allows us to visualize light in slow motion and see around corners.
- Finding All Hammers for a Nail (X): Identifying multiple solutions or technologies to address a single problem, such as using different technologies for digital refocusing.
- Adding an Adjective (X++): Enhancing existing concepts by adding a qualitative aspect, like making technology more adaptive, hierarchical, or personalized.
- Doing Exactly the Opposite (X): Challenging the status quo and exploring contrarian approaches, much like the revolutionary Fosbury Flop in high jumping.
NETRA: Bridging Technology and Healthcare
One of the applications of these strategies is embodied in NETRA, an interactive, mobile-based eye test that allows users to determine their eyeglass prescription. NETRA, which translates to ‘eye’ in Sanskrit, is an embodiment of the strategy of finding all hammers for a nail. It is a solution that emerged from exploring various technologies and methodologies to address a single problem — making eye diagnostics accessible and portable.
A Global Impact: NETRA’s Reach
NETRA has transcended boundaries, making an impact in various countries like Kenya, India, and Brazil, and has become a global symbol of how technology can be democratized and made accessible to people across the world. It is a testament to how innovative thinking, coupled with technological advancements, can create solutions that have a far-reaching impact.
The Continual Quest for Innovation
Innovation is not a destination but a continuous journey. It is a path that is perpetually unfolding, revealing new challenges, opportunities, and horizons. The Idea Hexagon is not just a framework but a philosophy, encouraging us to explore, invent, and continually seek the “next” after “X.”
