Value innovation occurs when a company implements a strategy that decreases costs, eliminates competing factors and offers something new the market has never seen. This strategy from Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne results in what the authors call a “blue ocean.”  Those who operate traditionally, fighting and drawing blood by competing on cost and factors that already exist, are in a “red ocean.” These competitors are required to totally rework their thinking just to keep up with the innovator. The concept of creating products using the blue ocean strategy changed the way I conduct my business, and I believe it will change yours.

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Calvin Borel is not called Calvin Bo-rail for nothing. If you watched the 136^th running of the Kentucky Derby with a “seasoned” eye, you would have seen his strategy. He took the shortest route, right on the rail (bo- RAIL, get it?) and when he saw an opening in the stretch, he headed right through it and let his horse go. The rest, as we say here in the Bluegrass, is history.

Focus is what won that race. Alright, he is talented, skilled, experienced as well, but it is the focus that separated him from the others who did not win on Saturday. And it is focus along with persistence and determination that makes businesses succeed. Take a look at your agency’s or business’ marketing efforts, and ask yourself if you are approaching a) the right targets with b) the right message and c) the right way so they will respond as you are desiring. Interested? Read more now. »

Everyone is always looking for that silver bullet. That one thing they could do differently, better, faster or cheaper to gain market share. And, sometimes it does appear that the silver bullet has been found, but, more than likely, it is simply the result of some good strategy and following the basic marketing tenets that bring success. Interested? Read more now. »