Measuring Potential Innovation ROI 📊

This lesson equips Air Force innovators and leaders with the skills to demonstrate the return on investment (ROI) of their innovations by focusing on four key areas: mission readiness, operational outcomes, risk reduction, and Airmen skill creation.

Overview:

Imagine your innovation involves automating routine aircraft maintenance checks. To prove its ROI, you focus on four key areas: first, it improves mission readiness by reducing aircraft downtime by 30%. Second, it enhances operational outcomes by increasing technician efficiency. Third, it addresses risk reduction by minimizing human error during inspections. Finally, it fosters Airmen skill creation by upskilling maintainers in using advanced diagnostic tools.

Armed with this evidence, you present a clear and compelling case to leadership, demonstrating not just the innovation’s value but its critical role in advancing Air Force priorities. ✈️📊

Key Concepts Covered:

• Mission Readiness: How innovation improves the availability, preparedness, and efficiency of mission-critical resources and systems.
• Operational Outcomes: Demonstrating measurable improvements in processes, productivity, or performance as a result of the innovation.
• Risk Reduction: Identifying and quantifying how the solution reduces operational, safety, or strategic risks to the mission.
• Airmen Skill Creation: Highlighting the development of new capabilities or skill sets among Airmen, empowering the force for future challenges.
• Data-Driven Justification: Using metrics and case studies to present clear evidence of innovation ROI to stakeholders.

Want to learn more?:

Check out these resources!

• “Innovative Deployment Training to Employ Mission Ready Airmen” by 17th Training Wing Public Affairs - This program focuses on equipping Airmen with skills and operational readiness through Expeditionary Readiness Training (ERT). The training includes scenario-based exercises that prepare Airmen for real-world challenges, improving their competencies and reinforcing their alignment with mission objectives
• "CSAF’s Integrating Risk and Readiness Campaign" by Air Force Safety Center - This campaign underscores the critical role of risk management and operational discipline in mission readiness. It highlights how innovation initiatives can enhance decision-making and operational outcomes while minimizing risks. Airmen are trained to implement risk-informed decisions that directly impact mission success .

About the instructor: 

Jeff “Smoker” Adling enlisted in the Air Force in 2002 from Dallas, Texas, and later earned a commission through Officer Training School. Over the course of his diverse career, he held key roles as a communications technician, logistics officer, inspector general, and special operations pilot with over 2,000 flying hours in remotely piloted and nonstandard aircraft. As a Lean/Six Sigma Black Belt, he channeled his passion for organizational behavior and problem-solving into unlocking the potential of diverse teams, addressing even the most challenging issues. He is also an experienced innovation coach, utilizing the science of storytelling to empower Airmen in advocating for their solutions.

Prior to joining the Productable team, Jeff was the Master Process Officer for Air Force Special Operations Command, spearheading continuous improvement and innovation throughout AFSOC.  He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Business Administration from The University of Florida and spends his free time perfecting his photography.