In today’s environment of constant disruption, innovation isn’t optional — it’s imperative. But for innovation to thrive, it must be embedded into the DNA of how organisations are structured and how work is designed. At Purple Talent Solutions, we believe innovation doesn’t just emerge from creative brainstorming sessions — it’s shaped by the levels of discretion and accountability built into organisational roles.
Designing for Innovation at Every Level
Our approach is grounded in the science of work complexity. Using Stratified Systems Theory (SST), we explore how decision-making capability varies at different levels of work — and how this variation enables different types of innovation.
Here’s how innovation plays out across five layers of organisational complexity:
- Operational Delivery (Theme 1 – Quality)
At the frontline, innovation is often practical and immediate. It’s the technician who tweaks a process to shave minutes off a task or the customer service rep who finds a faster way to resolve complaints. These micro-innovations drive efficiency and responsiveness. - Solution Customisation (Theme 2 – Service)
Here, discretion is shaped by situational judgement. Professionals at this level adapt and tailor solutions in real time, bypassing standard procedures to meet unique needs. Think of the IT engineer who modifies a system to better serve a niche client requirement. - Process Optimisation (Theme 3 – Practice)
Middle managers and team leaders drive systemic improvements. Their innovations involve linking processes, refining best practices, and scaling what works. They’re the ones who spot patterns, reduce redundancies, and drive cost-effective outcomes. - Strategic Development (Theme 4)
Innovation here involves building new models — not just improving what’s already there. Leaders at this level introduce new systems, technologies, or business lines that shift the organisation’s future trajectory. - Enterprise Transformation (Theme 5 – Strategic Intent)
This is where leaders reshape the organisation’s identity and direction. Innovation isn’t about efficiency — it’s about reinvention. It’s the bold move into new industries, business models, or geographies that redefines the organisation’s relevance in the long term.
Why Structure Matters
True innovation can’t flourish if people are boxed into roles that don’t match their decision-making capacity. Organisational structure — when aligned to levels of work — enables the right kind of innovation at the right level. It allows teams to contribute meaningfully to both immediate operational gains and long-term strategic reinvention.
At Purple Talent Solutions, we help organisations design structures that are not only aligned to strategy, but also wired for innovation. Whether your goal is efficiency on the ground or transformation at the top, the way you design work will determine how effectively your people can innovate.
