When innovators are wrong about the impact of their innovation: the case of AI and employment

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence is sparking widespread fears, and not just among the general public—some of the very innovators driving AI forward are sounding the alarms too, in particular regarding employment. Mustafa Suleyman, a leading figure in AI, recently declared, “AI is fundamentally a tool to replace human labor.” Is this cause for concern? Not necessarily.

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First-mover advantage, a strategy myth: Lesson from BuddyPhone and videoconferencing

There’s a well-established theory in strategy called first-mover advantage. It states that the first company to enter a new market is able to erect a barrier to entry that secures a position that is difficult for subsequent entrants to challenge. While this theory may seem obvious, it is often contradicted by the facts. A good example is video conferencing.

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Defending the inner flame in the face of uncertainty: Who will be the Vestals of your organization?

In a world riddled with uncertainty, organizations often falter despite possessing a strong, historical identity—an inner flame that should anchor them. However, this potent force remains underutilized because it’s felt but seldom articulated or embraced. Actively nurturing this core identity is not just beneficial; it’s a strategic imperative.

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Singularity, the ultimate resource in the face of adversity

In times of turmoil and pervasive uncertainty, our instinct is to play it safe. We often retreat, conform to successful norms, and dampen our uniqueness to avoid risks. However, a compelling chapter from Apple’s 1997 turnaround tells a different story: embracing and asserting our distinctiveness might just be the secret to thriving amidst adversity.

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The pilot in the plane: When faced with uncertainty, move from prediction to control

The more uncertain the world, the more anxious we are, and the more we intensify our efforts to predict. It’s a paradox with no way out. The key to uncertainty is not prediction – which is dangerous – but control. This general attitude implies seven very concrete ideas for taking action and giving ourselves the opportunity to create something new that is our own.

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