by Indra Nooyi
First published 2022
Mauro Porcini argues that genuine innovation stems from love and empathy rather than pure profit motives. The former chief design officer at 3M and PepsiCo combines memoir with manifesto, advocating for human-centered design that prioritizes personal and social benefits before financial returns. Porcini contends that lowered technological barriers mean companies must either create exceptional products or face defeat by competitors. Through detailed examples and personal stories, he demonstrates that transformative innovation requires putting people first, both as end users and as team members leading the creative process. He identifies the traits of successful innovators who possess what he calls a "genuine fire" to solve real human problems. Beyond expected qualities like balancing vision with execution, Porcini emphasizes unexpected characteristics such as kindness, optimism, curiosity, and humility. Drawing from his experiences across startups and multinational corporations, including both victories and setbacks, he provides practical guidance for identifying, recruiting, developing, and keeping these human-focused innovators. The book serves as both celebration of people-centered design and handbook for modern business leaders.
Genres: business, memoir, design
Vibes: inspirational, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: manifesto, memoir
Setting: 3M, PepsiCo
Period: 21st-century
408 pages · Paperback · ReadHowYouWant