Predicting the future

Think back to 150 years ago. Imagine the conversations business leaders were having at the time. With new inventions beginning to garner momentum, I imagine there was a lot of tension between culture and innovation.

Business leaders expressed skepticism towards a particular fancy piece of technology. This new innovation connected the human voice from one location to the next, making it possible to have long-distance conversations.

Business owners of yore resisted. 

• “My customers would never use that crap!”

• “What a waste of money!”

• “Ridiculous!”

• “No, thanks. My customers prefer the old way.”

• “We’ve always done it this way!”

With the benefit of hindsight, I think we can all agree that the telephone is a powerful invention. Yes, it has evolved into a handy palm computer, but it’s here to stay.

Yet, it’s not uncommon to find similar resistance toward modern, proven inventions. Maintaining the status quo is expensive.

The alternative is to keep an open mind—to develop the art of positively looking ahead. It shouldn’t take 150 years to appreciate the benefits of innovation. 

Today, we have the ability to test, measure and optimize. We can reap those rewards right now.