Innovation in Action: Insights from Great Western Studios’ Session with Leaders on Modernising Government and Driving Change

Why Innovation Matters Now More Than Ever

Across sectors, there’s a growing recognition that traditional approaches to complex challenges often fall short. In government, for example, recent commentary from the Institute for Government highlights that while new taskforces and short-term initiatives can deliver quick results, they are not a substitute for long-term reform and systemic change. Analysts note that relying on standalone squads to tackle urgent problems without addressing the underlying systems they operate within may provide temporary gains, but won’t transform outcomes in the long run.

This idea, balancing speed with sustainability, was echoed throughout our session at Great Western Studios.

What We Learned from Our Speakers

🔹 Darren Jones emphasised the need for modernising systems so that institutions work more like innovative organisations, aiming to “move fast and fix things” while also embedding durable change.
🔹 Chris Sheldrick shared insights from the tech world on how simplicity, creative problem-solving, and user-centric design can unlock new possibilities.
🔹 Hannah White brought this together with reflections on public service reform, noting that innovation must be coupled with strategic vision and structural reform if it’s to have lasting impact.

From Short-Term Solutions to Long-Term Change

A key theme from both the session and the Institute for Government’s analysis is this: innovation isn’t just about quick fixes, it’s about reimagining how systems and organisations operate. Whether in government delivery, creative enterprises, or community solutions, real innovation requires blending bold ideas with sustained commitment.

As highlighted in IfG commentary, government taskforces are a useful tool for urgent challenges, but, on their own, they don’t reform the wider system that shapes outcomes over years and decades. Lasting progress demands both agile working and deep organisational reform.

Thank You to Everyone Who Joined Us

A huge thank you to Darren Jones, Chris Sheldrick, and Hannah White for such an inspiring conversation. Thank you also to everyone who joined us at Great Western Studios, your engagement and curiosity made the session truly special!

We’re excited to continue hosting events that spark meaningful dialogue at the intersection of innovation, policy, and creative enterprise.

Stay tuned for more sessions and insights, and be sure to watch the full video above.