Innovation is difficult for structured organizations to accomplish in that structure itself works against the innovator's success.  Well-intentioned perhaps, but often ending up in the cheerleading/eye rolling category of work experiences.  The reason for this could be that innovation can't dictate the rules of the game.  Businesses still have to be run with order and consistency or they will die.  Just consider the dot com bust of the 1990's and you'll see what I mean.

What's intriguing about the d.school's theory is that innovative or design thinking is used to allow business leaders to break free from their organization's political and social boundaries in order to solve strategic or organizational problems.  In other words, it's a means of re-training the mind to come at challenges using techniques normally associated with the creative process.  

So, if you're in the midst of trying to figure out why ________________ (fill in the blank) isn't working, it may be worthwhile to check it out at d.school.