We have seen true innovation in our time. We’ve seen first flight, space travel, the birth of the internet. But for the most part, none of these innovations were realized by just one person who went, A-ha! And it’s becoming more of a group grope all the time.

For example, there isn’t one person who knows how to create all the components that go into making a Boeing 747. Or a Ford Probe, for that matter. It’s just too complicated. Even coming up with new healthy snack can take dozens of people, each with expertise in his or her own discipline.

So go ahead, have a great idea. But don’t be surprised if a half-dozen of your friends join in to make it a reality.