At present, there is no a uniform or universally accepted definition about innovative exhibits, nor the assessment standards in China or other countries. This article explores the understanding of innovative exhibits from the perspective of R&D process. Innovation is a process. In China, only innovation is successful, it can be called innovation. It, taking an example of the Exploratorium in the U.S., states that exhibits innovation is a perpetual work in progress; then analyzes the current status of exhibits innovation in science and technology museums in China, which pay little attention to understanding of R&D cycle and judging an innovative exhibit in inappropriate time. Finally, it put forward some proposals in promoting innovative ways about exhibits, they are emphasis on renovation, strengthening the management of the whole process of the exhibit development cycle, establishing the risk awareness and enhancing exhibit researchers’ expertise.

science exhibits  /  innovative exhibit  /  R&D cycle of exhibit  /  renovation  /  innovation risk