What is Denovation?
Denovation is a practical philosophy for change that begins by honoring reality. Inspired by the Japanese Daisugi forestry tradition, it values continuity—adapting and refining what exists, not discarding it for novelty.
Unlike approaches that chase the “next big thing,” Denovation starts with today’s real challenges. It diagnoses root causes and adapts systems with care, creating progress that is resilient, sustainable, and relevant.
Why Reality Matters
- Direct Impact: Solutions target present needs with measurable results.
- Accountability: Real contexts compel genuine learning and improvement.
- Constraints as Strength: Limits drive resourceful, context-aware solutions.
How Denovation Works
- Start from What Exists: Assess strengths, heritage, and pain points.
- Root-Cause Focus: Solve the actual problem, not just symptoms.
- Continuous Dialogue: Iterate with those affected; evolve, don’t reset.
Denovation vs. Innovation vs. Exnovation
| Denovation | Incremental Innovation | Exnovation | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Principle | Renewal with respect & reality | Gradual efficiency upgrades | Remove/ban outdated or unsafe |
| Approach | Work with heritage, adapt systems | Improve products/services | Discard without adaptation |
| Outcome | Durable, relevant, realistic change | Better performance | Elimination, loss of legacy |
Example: Urban Renewal
Innovation Lab: Designs a futuristic “smart city” with advanced but untested tech.
Denovation: Upgrades an existing city—adapting infrastructure, respecting culture, and solving root causes for immediate and lasting benefits.
Why Switzerland Needs Denovation
Swiss innovation is world-class, yet translating breakthroughs into regulated, multi-stakeholder realities is hard. Denovation delivers change that lasts—rooted in context, tradition, and pragmatic action.
Roots and Influences
- Japanese Daisugi Forestry: Prune to preserve and renew.
- Lean Management & TPS: Respect and continuous improvement.
- Degrowth Principles: Wellbeing and sustainability over endless novelty.
Get Involved
- Join the Network: Practitioners, thinkers, organizations—build resilient progress together.
- Newsletter: Case studies, events, and practical tools.
- Workshops: Denovation in action, tailored for your sector.
- Contact: info@denovation.ch
References
Parrique, T. – Defining Degrowth · Daisugi forestry resources · Lean Management & TPS frameworks · Swiss innovation studies