The Power of Experiencing Innovation Firsthand
Written by Sam Larson
Trying It On: The Power of Experiencing Innovation Firsthand
The decision to adopt a new innovation often hinges on more than just data and recommendations—it requires experiencing the innovation firsthand. Seeing a new approach in action, participating in it, and engaging with those who implement it can be the key to understanding its true value. Project ECHO, a widely adopted telementoring model in healthcare, exemplifies how immersive experiences drive adoption, effective implementation, and long-term sustainability.
Seeing Is Believing: The Role of Immersion
Many of the leaders who have successfully implemented Project ECHO were first introduced to it by chance—through a conversation, a conference presentation, or a journal article. However, awareness alone was not enough to drive adoption. Those who went on to integrate ECHO into their institutions typically attended an immersive training session, where they saw the model in action.
Immersive experiences allow potential adopters to understand not just the mechanics of an innovation, but also its impact. For ECHO, these trainings demonstrated the unique "all teach, all learn" model in real time, showing how medical specialists and practitioners collaborate and learn from one another. This kind of firsthand exposure fosters confidence and helps potential adopters envision how the innovation could work within their own organizations.
Finding the Right Fit
Even after experiencing an innovation firsthand, successful adoption depends on identifying the right organizational fit. There is no single best location for Project ECHO within an academic medical center—some institutions house it within medical schools, others within continuing education divisions, and some within public health departments. The key is alignment with existing priorities and structures.
Organizations considering new innovations should remain flexible about where the initiative is placed. Leadership should assess how the innovation complements existing programs, how it can be integrated into workflows, and whether adjustments will be needed over time.
Training for Long-Term Success
Implementation doesn’t end with initial adoption—long-term success depends on building internal capacity. Project ECHO hubs that thrive prioritize training not just in the technical aspects of running the program, but also in facilitation, adult learning principles, and community engagement. The same is true for any new initiative. Ensuring that teams receive comprehensive training in both "know-how" and "know-why" helps create a sustainable culture around the innovation.
Sustainability Begins Early
Experiencing an innovation firsthand can generate enthusiasm, but sustaining it requires strategic planning. For Project ECHO, one of the biggest challenges has been securing long-term funding. Since the program does not generate direct revenue from participants, hubs must seek financial support through institutional budgets, grants, and partnerships. Programs may start strong but falter when initial funding runs out.
Organizations considering an innovation should address sustainability from the outset. Exploring diversified funding sources, embedding costs into institutional budgets, and aligning the initiative with long-term organizational goals are all critical steps for ensuring its continued success.
Conclusion
Experiencing an innovation firsthand provides a crucial foundation for informed adoption, effective implementation, and long-term sustainability. Whether through immersion training, pilot programs, or hands-on demonstrations, potential adopters gain critical insights that help them assess fit, build capacity, and secure necessary resources. The story of Project ECHO highlights a universal truth: when it comes to innovation, seeing—and experiencing—is believing.