The Seven Stages of Innovation

Peter Andrews with the IBM Advanced Business Institute talks about the following reference points for most organizations interested in innovation in his article Roles for innovation – The right people at the right time: 1. Idea/Insight. This is what gets documented in a brainstorming session. It is the first expression of new possibilities, either as a combination or a complete novelty. 2. Research. Here, the idea is actualized. The idea is checked for precedence, put into context, tested and explored...

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Consultant Traits

I came across a great article written by Lois Kelly, a radiant and successful colleague of mine, where she powerfully articulated the following 13 most important traits for a consultant: 1. Expertise that provides real business value 2. Ability to cut to the core of an issue or situation and diagnose causes of the problem 3. Creative thinking to develop pragmatic ways to solve the problem 4. Outstanding oral and written communications skills 5. Responsiveness 6. Perspective 7. Influence 8....

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Email Signature

Email signature is a powerful, easy, and economical way to market your company, products and services. Include a short marketing message with a “call-to-action” that invites your recipient to take an action such as: 1. Subscribe to your newsletter 2. Read your articles and blogs 3. Purchase your products and services 4. Announce a new offering / incentives 5. Visit your web site Also, why not include your demographic information such as address, phone number and extension. This way you...

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Value-Based Fees – 10 Reasons:

I believe that charging based on value and not hours is a win-win situation for all parties. Here are 10 reasons why value-based fees make sense, which were quoted by international consultant, speaker and author Alan Weiss: 1. There is a cap on your investment. You know exactly what is to be spent and there are no surprises. 2. There is never a “meter running.” You do not have to worry each time my help is requested that I might...

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