As to the guessing part of that, I think too many people fear forecasting because they think it's about complex methodologies and expensive research, when in fact the best the research and modeling and such can do is tell us about the recent past.
My Response
Forecasting is not historical, it is now and into the future. Forecasting begins with hitting the streets, talking with customers and shopping competitors -- to discover aspirations. Aspirations are not necessarily anchored in the past.
This is where innovation comes in. The real question is: How do I innovate, in manner that is not easily imitated?
BriaS | Community Moderator |
12/20/2010 - 10:08 am
Hi GBIntel,
For your question about innovation, it really depends on the industry that your business operates in. You should check out this document from SBA.gov about Innovation in Small Businesses: Drivers of Change and Value Use. Also, view our Expert Insight and News section. It has a variety of valuable topics that delve into different ways of helping your business. If you have experienced problems with imitation, you should probably look into Patents and Copyrights.
Innovation is a very difficult topic, especially in such a broad sense, but I hope this helps!
BriaS
BriaS | Community Moderator | 12/20/2010 - 10:08 am
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