Monthly Archives: August 2011

Think of your exit as you commit your resources along the way.

           Each decision you make to commit resources affects the future value of the business to some degree.  Minor decisions, such as replacing employees who have left the company or equipment needing updating, are usually considered operational in nature, and … Continue reading

Posted in The liquidity event and beyond | Leave a comment

It is satisfying, but rarely profitable, serving early adopters.

                  I am a gadget freak, often purchasing new technologies in their first release.  And my closet is full of such gadgets, from early pen-based computers to early brick-sized cell phones to an electronic handwriting recognition pad received as a gift … Continue reading

Posted in Growth!, Positioning | 5 Comments

Develop the “What if” question chain method.

One of the most valuable tools in an executive’s arsenal is the use of the question chain in planning meetings or to analyze scenarios that might result from an action.  The powerful words are “What if…” followed by an ever-deeper … Continue reading

Posted in Growth!, Hedging against downturns, Protecting the business | Leave a comment

Stay current or the market will drift away.

Markets and competitors change. Are you being left behind? Over the years, I have often heard the complaint from CEO friends that they have become so swamped by the demands of their growing businesses that they feel themselves further and … Continue reading

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