To decarbonise effectively and efficiently, we need to ensure that innovative ideas are systematically tested, and that good ones are given a chance to solve real problems.
In his book Hidden Potential, Adam Grant contrasts two organisational structures: the ladder and the lattice. In most companies, opportunity exists on a ladder — ideas must climb through a hierarchy, and it only takes one “no” to kill them. By the time an idea reaches someone with decision-making authority, either the opportunity has passed or the champion has moved on.
W.L. Gore inverted this. They built a lattice system where employees have access to multiple leaders who can help move ideas forward. The principle mirrors why startups innovate so effectively: it only takes one “yes” to give an idea a shot. Gore-Tex was the result of a concept that two engineers officially “dabbled” with, and found a sponsor for in a different vertical.
Succeeding in the current maritime environment isn’t an isolated technical, financial, or operational challenge. Multidisciplinary collaboration is required to find viable, long-term solutions. Lattice systems enable cross-functional problem-solving and create unexpected leadership opportunities. Technical and commercial challenges cannot be solved without the organisational structures that enable innovation at the pace we require.