Forget Borrow and Learn Framework for Strategic Innovators

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The Forget, Borrow, and Learn Framework was initially introduced by Vijay Govindarajan and Chris Trimble in their book “10 Rules for Strategic Innovators: From Idea to Execution” in 2005, later reproposed by Chris Zook and James Allen in their book “Repeatability: Build Enduring Businesses for a World of Constant Change” in 2012. The framework is part of their approach to managing innovation within organizations.

Here’s a brief overview of the framework:

1. Forget: Letting go of outdated models or strategies that hinder progress.

- Unlearning Assumptions: In this phase, organizations are advised to “forget” or discard long-held assumptions, mindsets, and practices that are no longer relevant. It involves identifying and letting go of outdated methods and routines to create space for new ideas and approaches.

- Cultural Shift: Forgetting may require a cultural shift within the organization, encouraging employees to question the status quo and explore new ways of thinking.

- Examples: Kodak, a company that initially dominated the photographic film market, struggled to adapt to the digital era. To innovate and survive, Kodak needed to “forget” its traditional film-centric business model and embrace digital imaging technologies. In the same token…