100 Great Business Ideas

 

This is a book about some of the best ideas used in business. Some

are simple—sometimes almost embarrassingly so—while others

are based on detailed research and brilliant intellect. Most are

perennial, as their logic, simplicity, or value will help them endure;

while others are, to be honest, rather faddy. What unites these

business ideas is their proven power and potency. They are not only

insightful and useful, they have worked: often in a brilliant way or

despite great adversity. The ability of the people who conceived and

applied these ideas should be applauded.

One word of warning: while these ideas have worked for the

companies mentioned at the time they applied them, it is not to say

that these businesses will always get everything else right, forever

more. They produced a result at the time, but if this book has any

general lessons it is that new ideas and energy are needed constantly—

in many ways and at varying times—to ensure success.

While these ideas are varied and, I hope, interesting and thought-

provoking, it seems to me that there are several different themes

that run through many of these ideas and the businesses that use

them. These include a willingness to experiment and take a risk.

This seems to happen because many of the businesses display

energy and entrepreneurship—a restless desire to do well and stay

ahead of the competition. This is often coupled with an ability to

understand the root causes of an issue, opportunity, or challenge,

and do something distinctive, rather than merely tinkering with

the status quo. Simplicity and an understanding of the need to

be practical and implement the idea are also common features.

Some ideas, however, do result from extensive study and research.

This seems to confirm Peter Drucker’s point that great ideas and

decisions are a blend of rigorous analysis and intuition. Clearly,

sometimes one aspect is more important (depending on the idea),

but both are significant. Finally, the need to be practical, follow

through, and ensure success is shown by the recurring need to

monitor, measure, and refine the way the idea works.