I read once that the modern internal combustion engine used to power most of our cars is incredibly inefficient. Surprise huh? The report stated that less than 20% of the energy produced actually went to power the car. Even less makes it to the wheels to actually propel the car forward. A vast majority of … Continue reading “Is It Time to Get Your Motor Running?”
In the days of “Gotta have it now” we are always looking for the quick fix to our problems. I am constantly bombarded with ads telling me that their product or service is the answer to all my prayers. Continually the words simple, easy, fast, and guaranteed are used to demonstrate that little work on … Continue reading “My Magic Wand Is Broken. Can I Borrow Yours?”
A conversation with a client today made me think about the impact creativity has on a successful business. We are in a climate where budgets are carefully being watched. Our educational system is under review and programs are being reduced or cut out of the curriculum all together. One of the biggest targets for the … Continue reading “Why Killing the Arts is Killing Business”
Ever heard a story that you knew for all practical purposes is wasn’t true, but people embraced it anyway? Recently McDonalds experienced just that. http://yhoo.it/mcd_hoax McDonalds was subject to an attack that made them popular on Twitter for several days. Last week a picture popped up on Twitter showing what appeared to be a note … Continue reading “The Harsh Realities of Public Opinion”
I have noticed several surveys recently asking executives what are the biggest challenges that keep them up at night. Often one of the top responses is related to the lack of a clear or unified vision. Given the prevalence of this response, it appears to be a serious problem. I believe leaders want to provide … Continue reading “Lacking a Clear Vision is Costly”
I recently read a McKinsey Quarterly article that debated that very question. (http://bit.ly/prod_growth) Good points were raised on both sides, and in the end, it will be the economy and job growth which will truly provide the answer for us. As a nation we have an amazing tradition of innovation which led to much of … Continue reading “Is Productivity Growth in the US Gone?”
Purpose can define an organization and its people. Leaders need to be aware what happens when purpose is lacking and take action to do something about it.
It’s that time of year again. Whether by choice or mandated by your boss, goal setting and planning are often associated with the end of the calendar year. When I was in the corporate world, this time of year was a time when we set goals for the new year along with our expectations and … Continue reading “Resolving to Really Change”
Welcome to the Apples to Apples book page. Learn a little more why Apples to Apples takes a different look at branding and growth.
It’s amazing how many times we know the right thing to do, yet we fail to do it. I think w all have those times in our lives where we need to take action and we are reluctant to do so. Over my career, I have been fortunate to work with quite a few executives … Continue reading “Making Difficult Decisions”