Its hard to describe in a short blog posting the fabulous nature of Herman Millers (HMI) “Design Yard.” In fact, the name is a bit of a misnomer to begin with. You see, NO designers actually umm design, at Herman Miller. And oh yeah, Herman Miller isn’t actually a furniture company.

So, how does this correspond with the Kellogg Innovation Network event being hosted by the fine folks at HMI?

HMI is as they describe it, an idea company. Specifically, they focus on “design that reflects studied thought on the impact of environment, including furnishings.” HMI is one of the most innovative companies around! They live and breathe innovation. From their organizational structure, to their thoughtfulness in their interactions with guests, it all boils down to being a great company, and a joy to spend time with their folks.

Day 2 of the KIN event started with a tour of the HMI Design Yard facility. We have all been on facility tours before – but I have NEVER been on a tour with as much thought put into reaching each customer touchpoint on the customers own terms. Specifically, this was manifested (I later asked about this in private) by the corporate culture in place. What do I mean? Well, the café in the entry area is staffed, but when staff walks away to attend to other duties, it becomes an honor cash box. I mean that every person encountered has a smile, and offers assistance. I mean that the executive offices are right there in the open with both visitor and employee invited in to see and chat. And of most interest to me, being in an idea business myself, that HMI has put significant thought into translating ephemeral thought, into tangible item.

After being absolutely wowed by our tour, we went into our first learning session of the day. The godfather of marketing (not my words…) Dr. Phil Kotler, who actually DID write the book (ok, it was 30+ books) on marketing, spoke to our KIN attendees on his new research and Harvard Business Review article written in conjunction with my senior partner, Rob Wolcott.

The end of the event concluded with a discussion of the group findings, and several ideas were bandied about, including a brief discussion of one of my areas of interest, prediction markets.