The news that the Beaver Colony which was reintroduced into Devon a couple of years ago has now been increased by the birth of at least two ‘kits’ is a vindication of the decision by local wildlife managers to conduct the experiment. Whilst not everyone is happy with the new arrivals, the Angling Trust warning that beavers may have a detrimental effect on other wildlife, the Devon Wildlife Trust believes that the project not only helps beavers but also provides an insight into the local ecosystem.
It’s a valuable lesson in the importance of not being afraid to try new things and it is one which businesses would do well to assimilate. Organisations which are afraid to try something new, which treat failure as a reason for censure and which listen to the doubters rather than to their hearts are organisations which will never grow. Yes there are risks in any new project and yes there is always the chance of failure or of collateral damage which was unanticipated but if you never try you will never succeed.
It’s a valuable lesson which those looking to embrace innovation and shape the future need to learn. Risks can be managed but sometimes it is important just to go out there and challenge the status quo.
