More and more of the same old thing will get you more of…the same old thing.

Doing the same old thing, over and over, and expecting different results…

While those of us with an entrepreneurial mind set often tell people about how we embrace change, and that change is the lifeblood of what we do, there are those who embrace stability, who fear change more than anything else.  It goes back to that old statement, “if the boat and broke…don’t fix it.”

Problem is that the rate of change in the environment doubles every time a new technology comes to fruition.  Consider the evolution of the computer or refineries.  Interestingly, we are now – on a global scale – looking at the effects of an industry that was very slow to change – in some aspects failed to change – the auto industry and its impending bailout.  What are the remedies on the table driven by?  Change.  See “Remarks of Senator Barack Obama to the Detroit Economic Club.”

Another problem that many entrepreneurs face is the failure to plan.  New ideas come a dime a dozen – many people have dozens of ideas every day.  What drives change is putting these ideas into plan – bringing them to fruition.  Innovation.  I often recommend to my clients to have a process for innovation, similar to that of the scientific method:

1. Define the idea
2. Consider what resources are available
3. Create a vision
4. Consider what options make sense – consider brainstorming at this step
5. Perform the appropriate research – begin with – is there an actual (versus perceived) need?
6. Determine which options are the best based on the resources available and the most direct path
7. Define the goals necessary to reach the vision
8. Create strategies to reach the goals
9. Execute – at this phase, one might assemble a project team, define a project manager, build a team, etc.  Your needs will be defined by your resources.

Change is essential to staying viable in the marketplace, especially in a volatile marketplace.  You cannot afford to sit back and see what will happen.  Remember, some of the greatest changes, inventions and innovations in history have developed out of necessity.  Every economic downturn breeds new necessity.

At Aepiphanni Business Solutions, we are a Small Business Consulting Firm dedicated to serving the needs of small business owners. We specialize in helping you develop strategies for your organization, and are committed to your success. If you have further questions about creating your strategy or developing your vision, please give me, Rick Meekins, a call at 678-265-3908, or email us at [email protected].