We have had an unbelievable amount of rain this summer in Chicago. And while I’m normally one of those “rain or shine” types when it comes to outdoor activities, I’ve found myself spending a little bit more time indoors this year, catching up on some reading as it comes down in buckets outside.

Not long ago, I decided to re-read an “old” favorite, The Ten Faces of Innovation, co-authored by Jonathan Littman and Tom Kelley, of IDEO fame. I had good reason to revisit the book—actually I had a couple. The first is obvious: this is as good as it gets when it comes learning how to change the tide within your organization to an environment that values and fosters creative thinking. It doesn’t matter if your business is shampoo or laundry detergent (or magazine publishing, for that matter), chances are you’ve encountered a roadblock or two along the way in your efforts to advance a new project or initiative. Littman and Kelley offer concrete solutions that help us understand, navigate and manage the innovation process.

That said, we are proud to announce that Jonathan Littman will be joining us as the opening keynote speaker at the Packaging that Sells V conference (see, I told you I had a second reason). Sponsored by BRANDPACKAGING, the event will be held Oct. 4-5 at The Drake Hotel in Chicago. In his presentation, Littman, who also co-wrote The Art of Innovation with Kelley, will share proven strategies for driving creativity throughout your organization and will offer advise not only on how to develop fresh new concepts, but how to put them into practice. Littman’s dynamic speaking style and wealth of experience studying some of the most innovative and creative organizations in the world will provide you with the tools you need to start building, or advancing, a culture of innovation within your organization.

To view a complete agenda, and to register, for Packaging that Sells V: “Where Design and Strategy Meet”, visit www.packagingthatsells.com or call 800.337.8989. This year’s event offers an unprecedented opportunity for you to interact with other brand marketers, designers and thought leaders involved in a range of functions to explore the vital link between packaging and the brand. I hope you’ll join us!