The true meaning of innovation by Trevor Baylis OBE
05-06-2008
Innovation can mean many things to many people; some believe that it's the creation of ideas into business, or a creation (a new device or process) resulting from study and experimentation or even simply put "something new"! Fashion designers have to be innovators with an eclectic mix of fabric, colour and style and engage in that creative process that actually results in collections and physical form. However no one can survive by just pure innovation alone – it has to translate into a business that generates hard cash and profit margins. It can be along lonely road during this journey so who better to take some advice and tips from the master inventor himself Trevor Baylis OBE inventor.
At the Croydon Chamber of Commerce's seminar Creating Business Success on 5th June FashionCapital was asked to provide an overview of their company and the success achieved to date. In a relaxed and creative environment at the Croydon Park Hotel FashionCapital had the delight of meeting Trevor Baylis OBE inventor extraordinaire.
Trevor is well known for having the girt and determination to successfully launch his wind up radio which is now sold extensively throughout 3rd world countries. In his own unique way Trevor told with passion how he succeeded against all the odds to create a modern day invention without having the financial resources backed behind him.
"Inventors today need true grit and determination to succeed. When I first developed my concept for the wind up radio I was continually shunned by Government. I went to the DTI, LDA, Design Council; Nesta …every Government body I thought would listen and support me. I had door after door firmly shut in my face to such an extent that I began to doubt myself. I actually started to think that perhaps "they" the very people who are paid to support new innovative ideas were right and perhaps I was some kind of prat."
I always believe that I am very lucky in life – I have been blessed with many people and opportunities that make me see the positive and the good and I knew all I needed was one person to say YES to my invention. The person who eventually said YES was Nelson Mandela – you don't get much better than that. After I had just one supporter the press followed and they were kind to me and then the dream became a reality.
But how many inventors out there don't get that one supporter that says YES and end up dying a lonely
existence and often die penniless.Sir Frank Whittle –
demonstrated his first jet engine in 1937. Was 21 when he invented this idea but government rejected it.Sir Christopher Cockerell – Invented the hovercraft and did not make any money from the invention. He couldn't even take his family on a trip on a hovercraft.
So my advice to FashionCapital members out t here is simple. Never give up and live that dream. Don't take no for answer and remember the words of Mae West: "Its better to be looked over than over looked."
For Trevor's full bio please click here
At the seminar, which was held in association with LDA and South London Business, it was also grand to meet a selection of other companies too such as Hatz. FashionCapital has known Hatz for over four years and it was with genuine delight to see Monique & Margaret again who are based at 26 Laud Street, Croydon, CR0 1SW. 020 8681 7206
Many thanks to Croydon Chamber for inviting FashionCapital to attend and congratulations on a job well done!
