I came across an article from Computerworld.com, which is an IT magazine that provides information to technology managers. Although the topic of innovation was discussed two weeks ago, the title of this article struck me as being very interesting. It was written by By Eric Lai on June 18, 2009.
IBM researcher Robert H. Dennard is a 76 year old scientist known for two significant contributions. The first contribution occurred in 1960 when he invented Dynamic Random Access Memory, or DRAM, the memory used in virtually all computers today. The second contribution was a paper written in the mid 1970s describing how to keep shrinking transistors to build smaller, faster and less expensive chips.
Following the week this article was written, Mr. Dennard celebrated his 51st year as an IBM employee and received a Medal of Honor from the Institute of Electrical Engineers for the achievements mentioned above.
So what does this mean to me as a future HR professional? For one thing, it makes me really interested in the HR practices at IBM and wonder what role, if any, did they play to retain Mr. Dennard. My other thought is how did management and HR support Mr. Dennard in his innovations efforts. Perhaps Mr. Dennard remain longer in the organization because he is from an older organization. I wonder what are some ways that I can help retain an innovator in my future organization and how I can support that individual. In this case, I think management and HR have to work together and embrace an innovative culture company-wide. In other words, adapt a culture that is not afraid to take risks and be willing to increase the percentage amount in the creator category. Hopefully such practices will bring about future Dennards in the world,bring revenue to shareholders, and help the overall economy.
To access the article, please visit: http://www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&articleId=9134568
For an interesting video regarding the life of Mr. Dennard, please visit:
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