Big Waves Under Cloudy Sky

What stays the same in this innovation tsunami? What stays the same in a business model?

In the midst of the innovation tsunami, many things are changing rapidly, from the way we work to the way we communicate and connect with each other. However, there are certain fundamental principles that remain unchanged, and which should be at the heart of any successful business model. One thing that stays the same is the importance of understanding your…

Photo of a Woman Thinking

Why Not Everybody Needs to Love You: The Importance of a Clear Attitude to Business Model Innovation

Digital transformation has been the buzzword for the past decade(s). Companies are keen to embrace new technologies and ride the wave of change. When it comes to buzzwords bingo, incumbents are unbeatable. However, many businesses find it difficult to adapt to the new era of digital technology, especially when it comes to their business models. The fear of change and…

Why Bad Strategy is a Social Contagion and How Thinking in Business Models can help

Why Bad Strategy is a Social Contagion and How Thinking in Business Models can help

As business leaders, we often hear the term “strategy” thrown around in boardrooms, presentations, and annual reports. But what does it truly mean to have a good strategy versus a bad strategy? In his thought-provoking book, “Good Strategy, Bad Strategy: The Difference and Why It Matters,” Richard Rumelt, a seasoned professor at the UCLA Anderson School of Management, dives deep…

The Pitfalls of Short-Term Thinking in Agile Project Management: Aligning Projects with Long-Term Business Models

The Pitfalls of Short-Term Thinking in Agile Project Management: Aligning Projects with Long-Term Business Models

In a current strategy project, the firm follows a Scrum framework for project management. However, I have noticed a concerning trend regarding the product owner’s approach. The product owner solely focuses on tasks that align with the web analytics data, prioritizing only what people are currently searching for. Unfortunately, this short-term mindset jeopardizes the long-term strategy. By neglecting the broader…

The value proposition of weed control: To control weeds ;-)

Weed Control: What stays the same, what changes: Business Model Innovation in Farming

Weed control is an essential task for farmers and cultivators, dating back to ancient times. In the past, weed control was done manually, which was labor-intensive and time-consuming. Later, herbicides provided a new tool for farmers to control weeds more efficiently. However, with the rise of concerns over the environmental impact of herbicides, a new innovation has emerged: robots designed…

Photo of a Woman Thinking

Looking back to the future: 20 years of business model innovation (theory)

In summer 2001, I published my doctoral thesis on “Business Models in the digital Economy” in German (big mistake!). 20 years later, the topic is hotter than ever, however still very little understood and executed in traditional companies, while the most valuable firms on earth are all newcomers with innovative business models. I wrote my thesis for incumbents like my…