I had an interesting chat this morning with a friend about the term Co-Creation.
Somehow it felt ‘right’ in terms of describing what happens when we get together in person or on-line with our clients. It felt exciting, as if it were something I wanted to explore more. Even as I write, I can feel that inside me.
I began to think about the elements of co-creation and what makes it special.
- You both need to be open-hearted, which can be a little bit vulnerable, but it allows the spark to ignite.
- It’s organic, yet it does have a intrinsic DNA – a tangible output. I’m thinking of mis-shaped organic vegetables as I write 🙂
- It’s not as structured as a joint venture or collaboration, which infers some kind of preconceived process or role within the relationship. Going back to the vegetable analogy, think perfectly formed and uniformed carrots!
- It sparks a change. Something will be different. From seed to shoot. It could be a seemingly small ‘aha’ moment out of a conversation or it could be a perfectly crafted customer journey. Whatever the change, the spark between at least 2 people holds the magic
- And perhaps that’s a key word. Magic. The sum of the 2 or more parts appears to be bigger than the individuals. That’s where the excitement lies for me. It’s not in the efficiency in and of it’s self (although I do get frustrated when I listen to business owners tell me how little time they have!), it’s actually about the magic that happens when 2 or people like minded people get together.
- Ah, like-minded or maybe just with a common goal or common point on a journey together. From a moment of synchronicity to a conscious choice to co-create for longer.
I’d love to hear your comments on this one, as the spark continues to grow within me.
I’m sure there are more elements to it, and I may add and edit this blog for some time. I’m equally sure you’ve had experiences of it too. What made it special for you?