The Microsoft Out-Of-The-Box Week is a process used in some of Microsofts innovation labs to foster grassroots innovation and creativity. The Innovation Labs in Israels R&D Center hold such an event on a quarterly basis.
During Out-Of-The-Box-Week all lab activities are canceled and team members are instructed to go and explore their wildest ideas. No oversight or management is provided - people are free to choose their own topics, partners, technology and tools. Some work at home while others at the office; some work alone and others work in pairs or trios. Each group picks its own subject and quickly develops a prototype around it. At the end of the week, all teams gather for a festive demo event.