What identifies an "innovation at the verge" ?

I spent three hours in conversation on Coast to Coast AM radio show. We discussed exciting new technologies and other innovations at the verge. One of the listeners, Emily, sent me a question about what identifies an "innovation at the verge." Unfortunately, she didn't leave her full email address, so I am responding here, so everyone can benefit.

It is very simple:
Innovation at the verge is when two or more elements that are very different from one another are joined to create a single idea that solves problems the separate elements couldn't.

Here is an example I gave on the show:  the fork lift that is also a weighing scale for Fed Ex. It is the combination of a forklift and a scale--two very different elements that, when combined, make Fed Ex more productive.

-- Joel 

Joel Barker
futurist, filmmaker, author

Comments

[Ronald Smith]

Totally enjoyed your interview on C2C....Thank you.

[clay]

Mr.Barker- Hello
How would this forum help me? I am an apparel designer,and I have been trying to approch that you are touting with written proposals and business plans outlining the numbers and strategy,and that was long befor my name proceed me,and the world economy took a nosedive, I have a lot more original ideas and creations that I would still like to introduce,knowing full well this can only be accomplished with the right partner.
How do I do this @ this time?

Sincerly,
Clay Red
@-apparel Inc.

P.S. see about me page at my site to see my offer for these times. www.at-apparel.com
feed back would be appreciated.

[Ruth]

I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.

Ruth