A problem is solved. Similar problems are solved. Patterns emerge. A principle or theory is identified, proved and packaged into a 'solution' or 'methodology'. A brand emerges and is used to spread the benefits. Over time, the brand develops a cult following, mainly consisting of those who adopted the brand for reasons such as making money, differentiating themselves or other reasons nothing to do with the original problem being solved.
The 'solution' or 'methodology' is applied to problems it was not intended to solve, it is applied without understanding or coaching, users fail to adapt to boundary cases and exceptions or factor evolving realities. The brand gets a bad name and falls by the wayside.
Someone improves the original solution or methodology to overcome its weaknesses, creates a new brand and the cycle repeats.
If you are responsible for executing strategy, focus on the essence of the problem. Study best practices and methodologies but retain your focus on the problem at hand. Solving the problem here and now is sometimes all that matters. Given the impermanence of the universe, you will be lucky to evolve a 'long-term' solution. If you don't provide a short term solution, you will not be around to provide a long term solution.
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