At Not Usual, we believe innovation follows the same natural rhythms as a thriving allotment. When you see the delicate balance of soil, seed, and sun, you understand what organisations need for innovation to flourish. That insight shaped the Culturevating System — our nature-inspired framework that makes innovation practical, inclusive, and measurable.
Soil: The Culture Beneath the Surface
Just as soil must be rich with nutrients for plants to thrive, an organisation’s culture needs the right conditions to support innovation. Policies, processes, and leadership either nurture ideas or suffocate them. The Culturevating System digs deep, uncovering gaps, and helping leaders adapt their “soil” so innovation doesn’t just sprout — it sustains.
Seed: People at the Heart
Every seed has potential, but not all flourish without the right care. People are the seeds of innovation — their curiosity, confidence, and creativity spark solutions. Growing food taught me that diversity in the bed strengthens the whole harvest. In organisations, the same is true: different perspectives and voices ensure resilience and better outcomes.
Sun: Forces Beyond Our Control
Even the healthiest crops face sun scorch, wind, or frost. External forces — from sustainability pressures to technology shifts — can make or break innovation. The Culturevating System helps organisations harness opportunities and mitigate risks, so ideas thrive no matter the climate.
From Garden to Global Impact
Food growing reminded me daily: growth is a cycle. Ideas, like plants, need tending, space to grow, and resilience to weather the unexpected. The Culturevating System translates those lessons into a structured yet flexible approach for organisations.
