No such thing as a stupid question.

Curiosity is a trait often associated with children, filled with wonder and questions about the world around them. However, as we grow older, many of us suppress our natural inquisitiveness out of fear of appearing uninformed or naive. In the professional world, this reluctance can hold us back from innovation and progress.

Let’s take the case of Kenneth Grange, an industrial designer tasked with developing new express trains for British Rail in the 1970s. Many would have approached the task with preconceived notions or hesitated to question the status quo. But not Grange. A seemingly naive question popped into his mind: “What exactly are the buffers on a locomotive for?”

While many would assume they knew the answer, Grange took a different approach. He was brave enough to voice his query. Expecting a straightforward answer, he was instead enlightened about the actual purpose of these buffers. They were relics from a past era, used for shunting carriages. This newfound knowledge-empowered Grange to challenge the existing design. By eliminating the redundant feature, he paved the way for the streamlined trains that revolutionised rail travel in Britain.

So, what can professionals take away from this story?

Allow yourself the freedom to question even the most basic aspects of your field. Sometimes, revisiting the foundations can lead to groundbreaking discoveries. Fear not the “Obvious” questions. Often, what seems like an obvious question can lead to profound insights. If something piques your interest or seems unclear, ask.

Redefine the norm. The status quo exists until someone challenges it. By asking the right questions and seeking genuine answers, you can redefine norms and drive change in your industry.

In conclusion, in an evolving professional landscape, the key to innovation might lie in the simplest of questions. Be brave, be curious, and don’t be afraid to ask. The next game-changing idea could be just one question away.