Cretivity and Innovation by M.K.Z.L

The world is changing continuously in every hour, minute and second because of technologies. Technologies in various fields are making people's life easier and smoother. Twentieth century people cannot imagine how the life was before having electricity, transportation vehicles and good communication system. Actually engineers are the ones who create such technologies. To create new technology or product, idea which is comprised of creativity and innovation is the main concern.

Human is always demanding. As nothing is perfect in this world, people want to make this place a better place to live on. This desire drives them create innovative products that others never imagine before and amazing things happen. For example, Orville Wright and Wilbur Wright dreamt of flying over the Pacific Ocean. Their dream finally came true because of their strong desire. In their time, people might laugh if they are talking about flying or travelling by air way.. They might have a lot of failures, struggles and problems along their way of making the dreams happen. However, they proved that dreams could become reality. So demanding and dreaming play important roles in engineering.

What makes a good invention? Products can be said good inventions as long as people are willing to use it. To become more special than other products in market, the engineer or inventor needs creativity, being “street smart” and knowing what products and systems are currently available on the market. On the contrary, system integration may be considered a better idea rather than inventing a completely new product sometimes.

To conclude, let our mind be constantly irritated and dream freely. Since nothing is impossible, we do not accept the things easily and makes impossible things become possible with our new innovative ideas.

(M.K.Z.L)

commentrary on creativity and innovation By Y.J

After reading the article "'Whole-brained' education crucial for creativity", I strongly agree with Damini Kumar, National University of Ireland and Ambassador of the European Year of Creativity and Innovation. Hers concept which is that breaking down barriers between arts and sciences is essential should be encouraged and made more widespread.

In my view, everyone needs to be creative whatever profession they are in, including engineering. Engineers are problem solvers, so are designers and people in various other artistic fields. In all those disciplines problem-solving needs to be creative. After that, the innovation is possible to make the life more wonderful.
Currently, great that someone is addressing the problem of the compartmentalisation between the arts and sciences. Children in schools should feel free to indulge in both the arts and the sciences. Perhaps a more integrative approach should be taken, with science being taught using a hands-on approach and children allowed to experiment even at primary school level. Children are actually the most creative people and they become less so if those skills are not taught. More whole-brained education would foster creativity right through to university level. It is possible that at the younger aged, the creativities without considering any technical thinking might be as initial ideas. After reaching the university level, the initial ideas could be achieved using the technical knowledge. In addition, the ideas could be improved more valuable and artistic. This is innovation, of course basing on the technical knowledge.

Great scientists are usually very artistic too. Just look at Einstein. He was also a very accomplished violinist.

News feature on a selected topic or issue (By M.Y.Ang)

Summary on an article titled "The Birth of the Laptop Computer at Toshiba", by E.M.Rogers

In the early years, all personal computers were desktops. Then, in 1986, Toshiba, a Japanese electronics company manufactured the first laptop computer. This innovation indeed received a great response from consumers. Main reason for the first laptop to be invented is due to the limited desk space in offices for desktops. Furthermore, Japanese professionals are compelled to take their work home, but only few have a personal computer at home.

Tetsuya Mizoguchi, a brilliant engineer from Japan, persisted on this laptop project innovation. Due to his persistence, he was highly admired by his subordinates. Therefore, in 1983, Mizoguchi visited the United States with an R&D team from Toshiba and envisioned a portable personal computer. Despite his perseverance and hardwork, the company still denies his request for the development funds and refuses to assign him experienced engineers in a R&D team.

Not discouraged, he decided to continue with his project innovation on his own. He went "underground" with Toshiba's Ome company. He diverted funds and shifted engineers to design the laptop and finally, a prototype is out. Even though it was not a smooth process, he did not give up. His hardwork paid off when he met the senior vice president of Toshiba Europe. He was keen with the product and helped him with his first sales of ten thousand laptops in fourteen months. Production of laptops slowly increased with the vice president's help and Mizoguchi was soon promoted to the Toshiba board of directors in 1996. Therefore, this remarkable success made Mizoguchi a company hero.


Reference: Rogers,E.M.(2003). The birth of the laptop computer at Toshiba. New York:Free Press.