“Loonshots” by Bahcall in 9 sentences

Producing loonshots and producing franchises are two separate phases of large-group behavior that usually can’t coexist.

But an organization can achieve the right state of a phase transition by following the Bush-Vail rules: (1) separate the phases, (2) build a strong dynamic equilibrium, and (3) spread a system mindset.

There are two types of loonshots: an invention in the product (P-Type) and a breakthrough in strategy (S-Type), which are equally important, despite the P-Type being admired more.

The structure is more important than culture.

Teams with a system mindset are more successful than the teams with the outcome mindset.

Phase transition rules can be applied to many areas, from forest fires to terrorist cells to innovation.

To promote innovation instead of politics, follow the forth Bush-Vail rule: Raise the magic number.

For a company, city, or country to become a loonshot nursery, it should follow the first two rules and also obtain a critical mass of loonshots.

Above all this, guard your spirit, relationships, and time.

Full book “Loonshots: How to Nurture the Crazy Ideas That Win Wars, Cure Diseases, and Transform Industries” by Safi Bahcall on Amazon