If the area or need is widespread, it is possible that many people widely distributed geographically may come up with nearly identical solutions. However, even in such cases the 'brain wave' is quite likely a solo effort. It is a different matter that a massive group effort with major mid course corrections may be needed to materialize a working solution.

I for one do not think that innovation can be a group activity. It is a different matter that I also do not believe in the ownership of any innovation. I may be the vehicle used for the purpose.

When one tutor can teach a mass over the internet; when project can be executed across the globe with the help of internet; when Nasa can have location at different place running the same project then why not any other thing.

Innovation can and is definitely crowd sourced, the only point to think is everyone should get a credit of it, so others will get motivated.

PS: just give an idea of an project; and lets see how our fella CEan's will prove the point.

-CB