[jamesbressi]

I completely disagree with the first sin of lust for innovators. Maybe it wasn't explained the way it was intended?

You should ABSOLUTELY be innovating "in a space you have no business being in." Who's to tell you to not be there? Did Apple have no business to get into cellular phones? Did Odeo have no business dabbling in social networks, thus the creation of Twitter?

I say you should look to innovate in spaces that you have no business being in. Your unapologetic curiosity and potentially oblivious depth of understanding in that "space" is a fundamental element to many innovations.

Silly.

[joeythibault]

I agree with you, but I also agree that major changes in a companies focus can really hurt morale (if the employees aren't sold on the idea they'll push back).

Also, I think the author would agree with you to an extent. Apple really did push into a market where they didn't have any prior business, but their experiences and expertise really paved their way to success.

[jamesbressi]

Yes, major changes in a companies focus can hurt morale. BUT, when you have a clear vision and mission, changes should be an expected constant. No one really handles change well, hence the reason so many biz books are written on how to manage it. And, morale goes down when the employees don't buy into the vision and mission, but if the company shows the correlation and it holds true to their vision and mission, morale shouldn't be hurt for that reason. I'm over simplifying a bit and opening up another can of worms, but I'm sure you get where I'm going.

Thank you my friend for engaging in debate. I love people like you in communities like HN. Makes participation that much more enjoyable.

[jamesbressi]

Furthermore, when you may be oblivious to the conventions of a "space" and have an unapologetic curiosity and approach, you will most-likely defy conventional wisdom and practices which usually breathes new life into old spaces.

OK, I'm done ranting on this piece. Curious what you think of my two statements. I guess your votes will tell.

Cheers.

[DanielStraight]

Conveniently, the author disagrees with himself on that point:

"You're both going to get kicked to the curb by someone outside your industry who is rightly focused on the consumer (and not either one of you)." Emphasis mine.