Innovation, Experimentation, and Staying Away from Shiny Object Syndrome
”We can waste a lot of our time and resources by over-investing into R&D.” - Nils Smith
Nils isn’t wrong here. Since you’re in digital ministry, you feel the pain. New platforms. New tools. New toys. New experiments. Previously, we’ve said that 10-20% of our time should be spent on research and development. World changers are often innovators. How do we manage our desire to try new things yet not be obsessed with every shiny toy that crosses our path?
“Shiny new objects” can be alluring. Innovation is essential, but it can be a tricky thing, especially in ministry where cash is tight and time is limited. As important as trying new techniques and ideas are, how do these experiments impact the number of lives being changed?
How do we know when to experiment with a sparkling bangle or when we should pass? Sometimes, only experimentation will tell, but here are a few things to consider:
Has anyone in the ministry or secular arenas successfully utilized this platform or technique? If so, will it work for your target audience and be aligned with your vision and mission? Remember, even though it’s working for someone else, there is no guarantee that it’s right for you.
Does this new platform complement or compete with your current strategy? Will this help you meet your goals, or is it sideways energy?
Do you have adequate personnel, time, and financial resources to launch and wait until things are optimized and showing success? A new platform should not mean twice the work or money for the same results.
Experimentation and innovation are vital for digital ministry to succeed. Don't be fearful and be left behind. Be world changers! But, also be honest with your circumstances, the wise counsel of others, and God’s leading.
Here are some practical steps you can do:
Set a defined time period for your experiment and a limit on related costs. How long can you afford to run with it?
Define how you will measure success. What do you need to see from the experiment to continue?
Bounce that shiny ball off others before diving in. Be open and vulnerable with those you trust.
In ministry, we rarely stop doing something. We must consider those new “somethings” but use prayer and wisdom as our foundation. Instead, a new platform should allow you to refocus on what’s working in ministry and what’s not. If the explorer in you sees the newfound idea work, His Kingdom will rejoice.
