#USA #Fremont #Innovation Minds #Release Ubuntu #SMB Performance

Innovation Minds Unveils Release Ubuntu

On October 9, 2025, Innovation Minds, a prominent provider of employee experience solutions, introduced Release Ubuntu. This innovative engagement and performance platform is tailored specifically for small and midsize businesses (SMBs), aiming to transform how these organizations motivate their workforce and adapt to the ever-changing work environment. The announcement highlights crucial components of the platform, including the I'M Identity framework, Wizzy™ AI Engagement Copilot, and the OKRise module, which collectively offer enterprise-level capabilities at an accessible cost for SMBs.

Why Release Ubuntu is Essential for SMBs

For years, SMBs have been at a disadvantage when it comes to engagement and performance platforms, often being overlooked by solutions designed for larger enterprises. Traditional offerings have frequently been too complex and costly, leaving smaller organizations to either go without comprehensive tools or juggle incompatible solutions. This gap has significantly impacted employee experiences, retention rates, and overall productivity. With the growing focus on talent retention and workplace culture, the launch of Release Ubuntu couldn't come at a better time.

The I'M Identity Framework: A New Perspective on Engagement

At the core of Release Ubuntu is the I'M Identity framework, which redefines employee experience through five key affirmations:

1. I'M Connected – Creating a sense of belonging through collaborative challenges, events, and shared virtual spaces.
2. I'M Celebrated – Fostering authentic recognition, offering rewards that truly resonate with employees.
3. I'M Elevated – Promoting growth through transparent feedback and equitable performance assessments.
4. I'M Valued – Utilizing surveys and dialogue to ensure that feedback translates into meaningful actions.
5. I'M Inspired – Equipping employees with tools to drive innovation and co-create their future.

With these affirmations, employee engagement is no longer viewed as a mere HR initiative but rather as a vibrant aspect of workplace culture.

The Role of AI in Engagement with Wizzy™

Another highlight of the platform is Wizzy™, the AI Engagement Copilot, designed to streamline daily communications, enhance recognition, and provide real-time insights. Unlike typical chatbots, Wizzy serves as a co-pilot, ensuring that engagement feels organic and effortless, especially for teams lacking dedicated HR resources. By integrating AI into the daily workflow, employees receive continuous support without the friction associated with traditional systems.

Ongoing Development with OKRise

The OKRise module marks a shift away from outdated annual performance reviews toward continuous, transparent development approaches. Finely tuned with Proprietary Fair Calibration, this module seeks to eliminate biases and foster trust in career advancement opportunities, aligning employee evaluations with actual performance.

Powerpacks: Essential Tools for Culture Building

To bridge the operational gap between enterprises and SMBs, Innovation Minds is also releasing Powerpacks that integrate culture-building practices into daily work.

• - Amazon Marketplace Rewards Integration – Providing instant recognition with a wide range of reward options.
• - Hall Talks – Maintaining an open digital forum for feedback, ideas, and employee sentiments.
• - Culture 360 Tools – Promoting ongoing engagement practices that nurture a sustainable cultural momentum.

These Powerpacks empower SMBs to access the tools they need to cultivate a vibrant culture, mirroring what larger organizations typically enjoy, but without the associated costs or complications.

Positive Client Feedback

Early feedback from users has been overwhelmingly positive, with many SMBs reporting measurable improvements. As an example, the CHRO of SPL Inc., a North American Oil & Gas firm, expressed gratitude, stating, “Our employees feel more connected and celebrated than ever with the introduction of I'M Identity and the Powerpacks.” Another client, the CHRO at SRP, shared that the language of recognition among employees has transformed deeply, indicating a significant cultural shift within the organization.

A Cultural Movement, Not Just a Software Release

While Release Ubuntu is undoubtedly a technological advance, Innovation Minds underscores its cultural significance as well. Bala Balasubramaniam, CEO of Innovation Minds, stated, “Engagement should not merely mean another survey or HR program; it’s about creating a workplace that reflects the identity of the employees.” This perspective emphasizes the goal of making identity-driven engagement accessible to every SMB, regardless of their size or available resources.

About Innovation Minds

Innovation Minds is dedicated to enhancing employee engagement across organizations to foster thriving cultures that prioritize connection, celebration, and inspiration. By offering a unified platform that integrates recognition, performance management, and innovation challenges, they empower employees and drive measurable business results. With the launch of the I'M Identity framework, Wizzy Engagement Copilot, and the OKRise module, Innovation Minds is setting a new benchmark for employee experience platforms in the SMB sector.