The DNA of Disruptive Leaders and Organizations

Intuitive Surgical, which Dyer, Gregersen, and Christensen (2011) recognize as a highly innovative company, finds itself in a difficult competitive situation. While it produces many of the best robotic surgical devices and controls much of the market, its patents will soon expire, and new competitors are challenging its leadership. How should leaders at Intuitive Surgical apply the five discovery skills of disruptive innovators and the DNA of disruptive organizations (people, processes, and philosophies) to retain their leadership and/or establish leadership in new market segments? While Intuitive Surgical has demonstrated a high innovation premium in the past, can it leverage the DNA of innovation leaders and organizations to remain competitive? For this discussion, select two of the five skills to address.

Reference

Dyer, J., Gregersen, H., & Christensen, C. M. (2011). The innovator's DNA: Mastering the five skills of disruptive innovators. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Publishing.

Conducting an Initial Analysis

The final assignment asks you to conduct an analysis of either Procter & Gamble or Intuitive Surgical. After reviewing both cases and the expectations for the final assignment, make a preliminary determination as to which company you plan to use for your final project. You are not required to stay with this selection for the final assignment.

For this discussion, conduct an initial analysis of your chosen company by answering the following:

-What is your initial impression of which leadership practice or practices would be appropriate and why?
-How well does the company you have chosen exemplify application of the five discovery skills of innovation leaders?
-How well did the leaders guide the company toward the right people, processes, and philosophies; and which is most important in this situation?