Zombie Innovation Projects

If you're running an active innovation program, chances are high that some zombie projects are haunting you. These projects rarely contribute positive outcomes and have long seemed lifeless, yet remain "undead.”

I've seen several zombie projects while advising innovation efforts at large corporations and smaller startups.

Telltale signs include project leads who have lost interest and are now distracted by newer, shinier initiatives. Often, funding was neither increased nor cut, keeping the project limping along. If an initiative was the brainchild of an influential figure or had essential stakeholders involved, it might linger for months or years.

Zombies are threats

While zombies may provide a delicious surge of adrenaline while watching a late-night movie, in a business setting, these projects can be darkly threatening, particularly in three areas.

1. They create doubt and distraction.
   Zombie projects are always in the wings, detracting from the focused efforts needed for new projects. They cast doubt on fresh initiatives as participants wonder if this project will also end up as a zombie. If it's an external activity, the project's lifelessness and abandonment can also damage your brand.

2. They claim time and mental energy.
   While zombie projects may not be fully active, they aren't yet dead. They require at least a minimum amount of tending — attention that could be better deployed elsewhere.

3. They tie up resources.
   Zombie projects likely receive some staffing and financial support, even if modest. Freeing up these resources can fuel other, more valuable efforts.

Ending zombies in a positive light

What's the best way to deal with zombie projects?

First, acknowledge them.
Pull them out of the shadows and determine what elements, if any, are worth continuing. If there are none -- as is often the case -- be prepared to eliminate them permanently.

Then, take the critical step to end your zombie projects with grace so they don't linger or return.
Fully review what the project has contributed and document this value. While not a roaring success, a zombie project may have taught you important lessons about focus, planning, or market needs. It could have connected you to new partners or resources. You may have increased capabilities or gained new perspectives. And at least you know what doesn’t work, which is essential and valuable information.

The documentation of value also provides the basis for a positive response to future questions. When someone asks about the project, you can reply: "That project is closed. We gained a lot of information about [x, y and z], and are putting it to use."

My challenge to you: Review the zombie projects you have hanging around the shadows of your company. Drag them into the light, assess their value, and be grateful for their contributions. Then, end them, fully and permanently, knowing they've served their purpose.

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