This one’s directed at teams that are focused on developing a variety of products, not just a single product.
In case you’re wondering, GNB fits squarely into that category - we help you develop your product, whatever it may be (within reason!).
Let’s say you want to have the same capability, where do you start? Here are a few things we’ve found helpful.
Diversity of experience – Having team members with different backgrounds leads to better solutions and fresh perspectives. No one can know everything. And if we all know the same thing, we’re in about the same spot. A team from different industries with different backgrounds has a wealth of perspectives to draw on when attacking something new.
Networking – But not necessarily that kind. Know all the local (and global) suppliers, fabricators, distributors, etc. And beyond that, know what they’re capable of. Know where they fall on the good / fast cheap triangle. So when you need something made that you can’t make yourself, you know who to call.
Curiosity – A lifetime of asking “why” and “how” eventually fills your toolbox (both literal and metaphorical) with enough stuff to fix or build just about anything. Just like in finances, I’m convinced that curiosity pays compound interest.
Time in the saddle – Practical experience is irreplaceable; the more problems you solve, the more intuitive your solutions become. Eventually, that problem that would have seemed like a huge research project early in your career becomes just another day at the office.
Collaborative mindset – Nothing slows a team down more than someone with a pet skill set that they don’t like to share. Open communication without ego is fertilizer for growing elegant solutions. I’m constantly reminded how much better my ideas become when they’re open for discussion, and influenced by others in the team.
Of course, your team (and ours) doesn’t need to solve every problem, we just need to solve your problem. But I bet you’ll see some better solutions if you pay attention to these principles 😉
-Brian Schoolcraft
Comments