OUTSIDE THE BOX

Re Canada Needs A Real Innovation Strategy (Report on Business, Sept. 17): I would add another dimension to the call for our government to think beyond Silicon Valley models of innovation to generate good jobs for all. Indeed, a system that accelerates product development and delivery is crucial for a healthy society, but our national concept of innovation should expand to embrace such aspects as service delivery and social infrastructure.

The pandemic pushed naysayers and foot-draggers aside as ordinary people experimented with better ways to handle routine medical appointments, reevaluated the utility of office buildings and exchanged curbside parking for al fresco dining. This spirit of everyday innovation often draws on hidden talents that ultimately enrich all our lives.

Such can-do momentum will continue if we learn to see innovation potential everywhere.

Sharon Vander Kaay Toronto