I read this article a few months back but I often come back to thinking about it because, like all the best pieces of writing, it really got under my skin and resonated with me.
It compares Lego to Apple. Two consumer products that are household names – now. But which have both been close to bankruptcy.
What pulled them out? What made them superstars? This article does pretty well of sharing their secrets to success, as well as giving a fascinating look behind the scenes of Lego — surely one of the most enduring toys of the century. (Ever stepped on a mislaid piece of Lego in the middle of the night? That quickly becomes an enduring memory, that’s for sure. Pain-fuuuuuul.)
In particular, Lego’s Future Lab is something we can all learn from. I think all businesses need some sort of steering committee focused on the future. One that meets once a month or once a quarter, comprised of the thought-leaders in the company (and from outside too) who have been keeping an eye on new developments, new trends, market innovations, and potential new directions for the business. Get your future thinkers together so you can approach the future ready, not by trying to play catch up once it’s already here. The best businesses go forth prepared – it’s much harder to respond to market change than it is to go in pre-warned and prepared.
Check out the article here and let me know if you found it as interesting as I did: http://www.fastcompany.com/3040223/when-it-clicks-it-clicks
Do you have a future thinkers committee? Do you want one? Let me know if you need help in this area, as far as business consulting or business advice – the best businesses always think and plan ahead… zac@businesschanging.com
Leave a Reply