Creative Destruction

Two-factor authentication

2008-06-25T19:04:00.003+01:00

"An authentication factor is a piece of information and process used to authenticate or verify a person's identity for security purposes. Two-factor authentication (T-FA) is a system wherein two different factors are used to authenticate. Using two factors as opposed to one delivers a higher level of authentication assurance. Using more than one factor is sometimes called strong authentication." Wikipedia

The most common form of authentication is your bank card ie Chip and Pin. Your bank card contains a chip that identifies you when you put it into a card reader, and your pin authenticates you.
A Mobiu contains the same sort of chip as a bank card or a mobile phone. No surprise as the Mobiu technology was developed by Vodafone. Using your mouse you authenticate using a pin number to say "its me!". This gives you secure access to hosted space.

The Mobiu comes with office software. As you can use the Mobiu to use the software, your hosted space for files, and as above the authentication leaves no evidence for capturing keystokes (often refered to as keylogging or keystroke logging).

This means you have a secure "PC on a Stick", where ever you go.

As an aside I asked someone yesterday if they were interested in the technology - they responded that they had lost 2 laptops and now never travelled with one.

The Mobiu will be available from mid July. PRD Partnership are busy helping The Key Revolution develop the education sector. If you would like to be involved in a trial, get more information, or be one of the first to get one, do get in touch. We have developed some interesting ideas as to how to make the best use of the Mobiu in education. We can also explain the benefits to lecturers, teachers, administrators, or students (another blog on its way.....)

Interest is becoming widespread:

Gadget Lets You Take The Office Anywhere
Updated:00:46, Wednesday June 25, 2008
The ability to access your work from anywhere has taken another step with the launch of a new device.

Mobiu's USB device
The Mobiu is a USB storage device which uses technology patented by telecoms giant Vodafone.
Plugging the device into a computer brings up a simple interface which allows people to access files on a remote server using pre-installed software.
This means that when the device is removed from a computer, no trace of that activity is left.
The Mobiu has a SIM card inside it, and if it is lost or stolen, it can be deactived straight away.
Adrian Burholt, CEO of the Key Revolution, which is behind Mobiu, said that the device responded to customer need.
He told Sky News Online: "What worries people is concerns over their data.

"We found that people like the idea of something in their pocket that reassures them that their data is safe and no-one else can get their hands on it."
He said that ease of use was also very important for people, adding: "We've designed it so anyone can pick it up and use it."
Mobiu enters an increasingly crowded marketplace for remote working, and with services such as Microsoft's Live Mesh on the horizon, which allows computers to synchronise and share information across the internet.
Stuart Miles of Pocket Lint said that the Mobiu launch was similar to U3 sticks, which came on the market last year.
These USB devices also carry data and software, though do not have the same SIM-card style security.
He told Sky News Online: "A U3 drive is like your desktop being carried around."

Do you need the extra security of a Mobiu?

2008-06-19T11:37:00.003+01:00

Maybe your computer, your extranet, and your laptop is already protected by the need to type in a username and password. What are the added benefits of a Mobiu?

The chances are your present username and password do not offer very robust protection. When you turn your computer on, the log-in screen already shows your username - all a hacker needs to do is guess your password and they can access your computer. How guess-proof is your password?

Indeed, maybe they don't even need that. Do you have a 'Guest' account on your computer? Maybe there is a default guest account that allows anyone to access your computer without a password. Or maybe the Administrator account also has a vulnerable password. Or perhaps there is another user account on the system which has no password. Or perhaps you have shared drives that could be accessed by connecting your computer to a second computer.

Even if none of these very basic vulnerabilities are present, a motivated hacker can probably break through the default Windows security and access the data on your hard drive. There are even various 'hacker' utilities that can reset the Administrator password on a computer, giving the person who used the utility complete access to the computer's contents. A skilled hacker can get into your password protected computer in less than 15 seconds.

If your computer is fixed in place, in your office or at home, your vulnerability to data or identity theft from a stranger is low, because a thief first must break in to your home or office. If you connect to the internet via a broadband connection you will probably be protected by a firewall. Whilst you are connected you are vunerable. If you use hosted space such as BT Workspace, your access is only protected by a username and password. If you travel with a laptop, your vulnerability goes sky-high, because your laptop is much more vulnerable to being stolen.
In the USA Laptop thefts are sharply increasing. 53% more laptops were stolen in 2001 than in 2000. In 2002, this number is believed to have increased by at least a further 15%, up to a staggering 620,000 (more than one every minute). In the Uk some 68 MoD laptops had been stolen in 2007, 66 in 2006, 40 in 2005 and 173 in 2004.

http://software.silicon.com/security/0,39024655,39166970,00.htm
“Total number of UK laptop thefts reported in 2006**

The top five regions by police force:

1. Metropolitan Police (6,576)
2. West Yorkshire (2,402)
3. Thames Valley (2,149)
4. Leicestershire (1,219)
5. Bedfordshire (938)
** In our enquiry we deliberately discounted laptops stolen from homes or offices to get a clearer picture of threat posed specifically by the greater mobility of laptops compared to desktop computers.”

In the UK the Nationwide were fined £1m in 2007 for the data that was exposed on a laptop that was stolen.

In one test case, 70 of 100 lost laptops proved to have vulnerable data. In another, one in three password protected computers were quickly defeated.

Plainly, it is prudent to secure your laptop as robustly as possible.

SIM assured protection - what you get

When you buy a Mobiu, you get a USB Mobiu device. The device is protected by SIM assured technology, you might recognise this as “chip and pin”. If you take out the “chip”, you cannot use the key and your data is safe. You can disable the key remotely by ringing the helpline. Your data is safe.

You can order a replacement key and you can access your data.

Originally the concept was developed within Vodafone, and now by the Key Revolution Ltd. In addition to the security benefits each Mobiu comes with:

Softmaker office suite, a word processor, spreadsheet and presentation package that will work with your Microsoft or Open Office files. This loads from the stick, and will not leave any imprint of the file on the PC. It is as though you were never there. This means that you can load sensitive documents onto other companies, or other people's PC's and they wont get a copy. For further details see http://www.softmaker.com/english/ofp_en.htm

A browser, the Firefox browser works from the stick, so again, your browsing is secure and hidden from others. Ideal for visiting consultants.

Shared space, you can share files with trusted users who also have a Mobiu. This is ideal for organisations that collaborate over a wide geographic area, or make good use of home working. This gives you added document control. You will only need one version of the same file, essential when working on projects .There is no need for sending documents via e-mail. Indeed some larger documents such as graphics, photographs, databases etc can be difficult and time consuming to send. E-mail is not the most secure way to send sensitive data, using the Mobiu is an attractive alternative.

Mobiu will be launched in mid July 2008 and has a programme of developments planned out.
The Mobiu is compatible with all PC systems that have a USB and either Windows 2000/2003, Windows XP. News on Vista, Mac and Linux is expected in the next few weeks.

Installation – The good news is that there is no installation. Everything will work straight from the stick. On your first use you will probably want to back up your desktop and key files. This may take a few minutes. Once completed each update is done on a file by file basis.
Use on Multiple Computers – your files will be accessible to you on any computer, and safely. The Mobiu is portable, felxible and easy to use.

For multi-user, multi-computer, network environments, Mobiu can be configured to be a safe alternative to memory keys, home access portals, or extranets. The Network Administrator can be given a 'master key' and the ability to create keys set up for specific user groups or a user who has lost/broken his key. Because these duplicate keys can be instantly created on site, the downtime from a lost/damaged key is reduced to almost zero.

Where to Buy

Mobiu will be widely available from mid July 2008 onwards. You might even like to buy from us!

Opportunity to undertake a trial

We are keen to undertake user trials, particularly in the Education sector. So if you are part of a University, College or School, do get in touch. We can pass on some price benefits for being a test site. Your feedback will help develop the software, and therefore you will have the chance to shape the Mobiu to your needs.

Creative Destruction - Why do new products wear you out?

2008-06-11T11:47:00.008+01:00

Columbus didn't find America, but he was the first “notable” person to do so and seek notoriety for it. Today we would say he had a “route to market”.

Leibson's Law: It takes 10 years for any disruptive technology to become pervasive in the design community. (http://www.edn.com/blog/980000298/post/710019871.html)

With Airsound and the Sonic Soundscape we have found that many people like listening, we get some rave reviews, but there is a lot of resistance. From the "Hi Fi buff" that doesn't believe its possible (and has their own listening chair so they can be the only one in the room that can hear the stereo properly), to the manufacturer that hopes that there wont be a disruptive change in the market.

As humans we don't like being wrong. If you consider yourself an expert and have invested with thought and your pocket you buy in emotionally to a solution. It is then difficult to change your mind. A reviewer turned up to a Soundscape presentations with the intention to write “it doesn't work”. At the end of the presentation he suggested that he wouldn't write the review – all well and good, but he was not prepared to be positive.

We work to identify the “innovators”, the people who will buy. They are not often located where you think they will be. In the last couple of weeks we have been preparing to take on a new product called Mobiu, a PC on a stick. One of its key benefits is that it has a SIM card (Chip and pin). This is the only way of accessing online hosted space. The first thing we do is to get feedback from different people. Its always a bit of fun finding out “who wants one.” Innovators change with each project as buying habits and emotions are different for each product you purchase. Doing this helps identify potential barriers.

In today's IT security market there are many types of encryption that are used to make online security safe but accessible. I don't for instance have online bank access as I can't remember the long passwords and don't want to put them on a pin board. The ultimate safety is not to have access. With the Mobiu there is no access, unless you have the SIM card. In asking the first few IT specialists the first feedback was “.... and what encryption is being used?.... if it hasn't got XYZ encryption it wont work”. This may help us identify the “special Hi Fi buff” who is locked into the solution of their choice.

New products can wear you out if you approach everyone in the market all at once. You will meet a lot of Hi Fi buffs or complete disinterest when searching for your innovators.

Peter Gabriel and B&W have recently launched a high quality download club. One of the major papers reviewed saying that they have never paid more than £250 for speakers and couldn't tell if it was high quality or not – complete disinterest!

Online bloggers are saying that they want this service – but from a larger company. Clearly Peter Gabriel and B&W, despite being well respected are not large companies. Do they have enough notoriety to be Christopher Columbus?

Creative Destruction - Its bin fun

2008-04-28T08:28:00.003+01:00

Creative Destruction is about big, life changing ideas that need a special sort of entrepreneur to drive something new through. The classic entrepreneur is an opportunity spotter - very different.

For instance was Ruben Rausing of Tetra Pak spotting an opportunity or did the company really make a difference to our lives? He and the company have certainly been very successful.

If you went back 50 or so years and met Ruben for the first time would you have thought that the packaging concept was "another idea" or someting that was going to change the industry? Spotting the new ideas is sometimes very difficult.

One of the ideas we have been researching is called "Carbin", and it does what it says - a handy bin for the car. There has been a fantastic response from the few that have seen it, and there seem to be 2 key markets. The promotional market - it is easy to print on, very visible in the car, and the Car accessory market. (We think its much better than fluffy dice!)

If you are interested in more details, do let us know.

Creative Destruction: Endorsements

2007-12-18T11:42:00.000Z

It is always nice when you get an endorsement from someone who is well known and just happens to understand music.

Hello Hubert,

Thanks again for taking the time to demo your Airsound system the other day.

I'm e-mailing you to tell you that I couldn't be more pleased with it. I think you've pulled off something quite remarkable with it -- you might even be a genius! I've been playing a lot of my old favourite CDs and music DVDs and have been pleasantly surprised every time. The sound is warm, well balanced and beautifully detailed. If you stuck it a cherry or walnut cabinet and sold it for £1000 pounds no one would argue.

I look forward to hearing the next generation which is currently at the prototype stage and will certainly be looking to buy one of those too.

The next time I'm in the area I'll drop off a Suzanne Vega CD for you.

In the meantime, congratulations and keep up the good work. And feel free to use any of this e-mail that you wish as an endorsement for your product on you website or wherever.

Very best wishes

Bruce

Bruce Thomas - fabulous bass player - with the Attractions, and has also played with many other s - including Al Stewart, Paul Rodgers, Steve Howe, Wings, Paul McCartney, Nic Lowe, Pretenders, Madness, Billy Bragg, and Suzanne Vega
http://www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/Diner/2674/thomas_bruce_a.htm

For further information about the Airsound system - the Sonic Soundscape - please see Dias Music

If you are interested - contact me for a special offer!

Creative Destruction: Due Diligence – how much do you do?

2007-12-06T16:04:00.000Z

The creative production process relies on an entrepreneur taking something new or innovative to the market place and making a real difference to our lives.

Previous articles have been written about different markets where there will be a number of alternative “new” options, where there will eventually emerge one or two serious contenders. For instance in the heating market and wood pellets, the question has not been answered yet.

Part of the process of market making involves making relationships, and in commerce this involves the transfer of goods and services and fees via an agreement.

The question of due diligence often arises, or the slightly murkier cousin “trust me!”. Undertaking research on someone or a company can be uncomfortable, could be costly, time consuming and ultimately unnecessary. Not undertaking any research can be very costly in some situations.

Step 1 The basic research

Make sure the company or the individual is traceable, and do look for some history. For instance even solicitors or former solicitors can have a past.

Tip: http://www.lawgazette.co.uk/archive/view=query.law

gives you an online archive in the UK for news on Solicitors. This one is free, and there are others for other proffessions and trades.

Why?

Individuals often repeat their behaviour, although we have serial entrepreneurs, you can have serial offenders.

Step 2 The basic trust

You can also network, and network in someone else's network. Find out who they mix with, what other people say about them. Even better, you may find someone in your network that can speak for them. If you cannot, then think about whether you want to proceed to step 3.

Step 3 The more advanced trust

Should you experience each others product or service at a level where you can afford to loose, before you decide to scale.

All the above sounds good – but time consuming. The venture capitalists seem to do it quicker through making sure that the team stands up to scrutiny and that you deal at the right level. Unfortunately how you get from being on your own to being amongst a team of recognisable and highly talented people is not so obvious. Take some comfort from the fact that many VC investments don't work out. Many Hi-Tech teams split up. It does seem to be an iterative process, and you have to keep learning along the way.

Creative Destruction: Wood Pellet burners – the micro view

2007-10-30T18:37:00.001Z

I like metaphors! Particularly relevant for me is Sun Tzu, The Art of war, which is filled with metaphors for the small business. When studying I came across the idea that a green and verdant valley would be hotly contested. Rocky slopes would not, and local knowledge could be used for survival. If successful you can move down the hill side as you grow in strength. Wonderful!

Last week I was thinking about this, pellet burners, and keeping one eye on the traffic. I was stuck at 6:30 am along with numerous cars, behind a very slow moving vehicle. (Nothing unusual in Wiltshire). Perhaps this in itself is an extension of the above metaphor.

In the last article about wood pellet stoves the complaint was that there was no real impetus in the market. Whilst the conditions could be met for successful market development. There was not an obvious company pursuing a successful route to the consumer. Perhaps they have the wrong vehicle.

In a new market firms choose which path (or road) to follow. As a market maker you make the path. If you are a follower you have to follow – perhaps behind a very slow moving vehicle. Any customer that comes along may see the market maker first. If they do, and they don't like it they will move on. (I am a potential customer)

Any company stuck behind may lack the resources to overtake, or if they do they have to take a risk. I did notice one or two cars put everyone in danger as they tried to overtake when it was not possible. Shortly before Newbury I changed route.

What factors are there about the “vehicles” in the pellet stove or boiler market that means that the market is struggling at the moment?

Factor 1 Price

From a self interested perspective I would like an alternative to oil. This means that the installation and cost of the boiler should be similar to oil. I would like the fuel to be available and at a similar level or cheaper than oil.

Some of the small firms in the market are selling boilers that perhaps start at £5000, but rising to £12,000 once installation has been taken into consideration. This clearly targets a very small niche of wealthy and green consumers. It also seems to look to substitute green fuel units for its prices e.g. Geodesic, solar, wind, and has a long payback for the consumer. The fuel recommended is also expensive, with prices nearer to £300 per tonne than the £150 per tonne needed. Whilst this fuel is top quality it is also very expensive.

If you meet a market maker with the above prices, you may feel that this market is not for you, yet there are cheaper stoves available, and there is cheaper fuel.

Factor 2 Credibility

When you buy a pellet stove you want to feel confident about the company. You are investing a large amount of cash, this is a risk.

On closer inspection of the market, there are companies which when you do a bit of research, you find a dubious history. From legal disputes to financial irregularities.

Whilst not all companies fall into this category, it is very much a “buyer beware”.

Factor 3 Service

How quickly can I get a stove or boiler? Many companies don't hold stock. It therefore will take time to get your stove. Many of the companies represent small boiler producers. The stock may have to be made to order.

In relation to factor 2, who will service the boiler? If it is going to last 10 years or more, I want the stove or boiler supported.

Factor 4 Agents

There is much mystique on being an agent. Is it because it is a protected trade area? You will see the words “exclusive” banded around quite a lot. The inference is that the company has been chosen, or that they have purchased the license, or indeed that they are the best company with the best stove.

If you are researching do tap in the name of the stove you want, and then find out how many companies in the UK have an “exclusive agreement” for the same stove.

Alternatively you can check with the manufacturer to find out if there is an agreement (I have and was offered a direct offer bypassing the “agent”).

I have been “driving” as a consumer in looking for a wood pellet stove. I am yet to find a company driving the right path using the right vehicle. Ie that can offer the right price, is credible, has the right service, and has a proper agreement that is prepared to sell, install, and maintain a boiler in Wiltshire. In addition is the creative destruction bit. Can they get to me (and other consumers)?

Creative Destruction: No Special Listening chair needed

2007-10-30T17:15:00.000Z

The Sonic Soundscape is the first commercially available system using Airsound technology. Creative Destruction principles suggest that the difficulty of getting a new way of reproducing stereo accepted will be information.

If Airsound is indeed an “improvement” on the reproduction of stereo then this is indeed true. I have done numerous presentations over the last 10 months for the Sonic Soundscape, and indeed the inventor Ted Fletcher, has also shown off Airsound systems, including the Sonic Soundscape.

The main difficulty is getting people to listen. It is sound, and difficult to articulate the exact listening effect.

“No special listening chair needed”

The Sonic Soundscape provides better quality sound than similar priced speakers as it has:

1 Really clear sound
2 A “surround sound” or spatial element giving depth and space

additional advantages also mean that you need little regard to:

3 the positioning of the speakers
4 where you or your friends and family sit or stand in relation to the speakers
5 how to conceal lots of wires
6 lower volumes needed to get desired sound

It could be ideal for music, home cinema, pc games or television

The Sonic Soundscape contains Airsound which resolves the performance constraints of conventional stereo.

Conventional stereo probably means you have 2 speakers. Unless you locate your speakers properly in your house and sit in the right position you will not hear true stereo sound. You may recognise this as distortion. This may get worse as you increase amplification. (Think about listening to music at a party with lots of people).

The Sonic Soundscape is the first commercially available Airsound system. It maintains an accurately balanced stereo sound-field in all listening positions in front of the speaker. This gives the REALLY CLEAR SOUND.

Conventional stereo is mixed, often 80/20 to give a balanced sound at the single listening point. This does not give a sense of depth. Surround Sound 5.1 or even 7.1 systems use 5 or 7 speakers to split the sound signals, and again, if you are in the middle of the speakers it is possible to get a sense of depth. Virtual Surround Sound (VSS) simulates true, multispeaker surround sound by processing 5.1 audio into two channels (left and right). The spatial algorithms in VSS systems are sometimes used to bounce signals off walls to approximate the effects of speakers to the sides and rear. They are more compact, easier to install and usually less expensive than 5.1 systems, with far less speaker-wire clutter. The absence of rear speakers and a subwoofer means less rumble in movie explosions (and less bottom on your CDs) and a smaller sweet spot where audio effects are most dramatic.

Airsound systems provide a large sweet spot in all places in front of the speaker. There is also far less speaker-wire clutter. You are in charge of your room, not your stereo. The “SURROUND SOUND” element is not simulated, it is real. It uses a principle called 'sum and difference' or ‘middle and side’ (M/S). By adding and subtracting the 'omni' or 'sum' signal with the 'difference' signal, it is possible to arrive at a conventional 'left' and 'right' audio signal. The M signal represents the majority of the signal content and is heard from the front speaker. While the S contains all the spatial information and comes out of the spatial speakers at the side. This produces a “Sonic hologram”. A picture of sound that does move as the sound changes.

The resultant really clear sound with a surround sound element has the bonus being able to locate the speakers almost anywhere. You can put them where you want. Your room is yours. You can sit where you want. No special listening chair needed.

A bit about Ted: Ted Fletcher is the inventor, one time assistant to Joe Meek whilst he was producing songs such as "Just Like Eddie" by Heinz. He then went on to design ranges of professional audio recording equipment firstly under the Joe Meek brand, and then under tfpro.

Creative Destruction – Carbon Neutral fuel – Wood Pellets

2007-10-22T11:39:00.000+01:00

Creative Destruction – Carbon Neutral fuel – Wood Pellets

Everyone uses fuel. Gas, oil, electricity or even wood.

In the UK institutions and organisations such as The Centre for Alternative Technology have been researching alternative fuels that take less resource and cause less harm to the environment for many years.

The uptake of alternatives has been slow despite government incentives such as grants, support in the form of government bodies, legislation, pressure on government organisations to lead the way, and interest from the media.

During 2007 there has been some increased uptake, particularly of solar power. Thoughts have also been that the wood pellet market would take off, but what statistics show is that this has been slow, particularly amongst consumers.

Factors that suggest that wood pellets will increase eventually are based on the fuel supply, prices of alternatives, and quality of solutions available.

There are a number of organisations who now produce consistently good quality wood pellets. There are a number more that are getting ready to enter the market. These tend to be established businesses, or organisations with support.

Gas and oil prices have increased, meaning that it is possible to also consider the wood pellet market to be cost efficient now and in the future as well as providing a sustainable and carbon neutral source of fuel.

As with any new or emerging market the question of creative destruction arises, and with it the “entrepreneur” and their role.

Having spent some time doing research this year I can make some observations.

There are one or two firms that are emerging with good solutions, good service, and now a growing income. This can give the consumer some confidence.

However there are many more that continue to provide either an “expensive” solution, or simply cannot supply the required service. This makes it difficult for the consumer to choose. (Hence if you are interested in a stove or a boiler it really is best to seek advice).

Therefore these early market entrants spoil (as in rugby) the market and its chances for growth.

At some stage there will be a shake out, larger players in the heating market may enter, but at the moment there is not enough “information” from the market – or the entrepreneurs. This could be:

It has to be simple for the consumer to purchase and install.
They must feel confident that the company can service the stoves in the future.
The fuel must be readily available.
The cost of installation and running should be comparable to at least oil and preferably gas.
The environmental benefits (and therefore the government induced benefits for installing in an organisation or home) need to be clear.

For some reason government bodies do provide accurate and sometimes good information. They don't however make the option attractive for the consumer. This is the job of the companies concerned.

For wood pellets to emerge as a real alternative one of the key things that is needed is a company (or companies) that are able to present this to the market place effectively. This may then see the creative destruction process in action, and the result would have an impact on society.

As mentioned above there are a couple of projects that I have been involved with in this space over the last year. I will write later this week and give some more “micro” examples.

Action Learning – Creative Destruction

2007-10-17T19:35:00.000+01:00

The question I am debating is that does the action learning process (or similar) have a real impact on innovation or those that are taking part in the innovation process?

Action Learning is a process where an individual presents an issue to a small group of people. The issue is explained, clarified, and then questioned. The questions provide challenge, with the aim of helping that individual to decide on some actions they want to take. Other members of the group can then present their issues, be challenged, and then decide on actions.

This process then repeats at regular intervals, with each person reporting back on the actions that they have taken. They are accountable to their peers.

I undertook facilitator training ie training facilitators to deliver action learning, last year. So I do have a commercial incentive as well as interest in the following ideas.

Creative destruction describes a process of economic cycles, where a “special” innovation that makes a difference to everyone's lives is brought to market by an entrepreneur. The Entrepreneur as defined by Schumpeter is different to the “opportunity spotter”:

The Opportunity Spotter

e.g. I noticed whilst in East Anglia that potatoes were being produced very cheaply compared to London. As a merchant I have spotted an opportunity, and if I can bring potatoes from East Anglia to London profitably or better than anyone else I can be an entrepreneur.

Schumpeter describes the entrepreneur as “special” in so far as they have to inform and persuade the market place that their solution is better than the market standard. In so doing they render the previous solution obsolete. This can lead to market regeneration, and with it a boom.

How does the process of creative destruction actually work?

From my perspective I see lots of people with good ideas. Sometimes they are quite “wacky” and sometimes fantastic, but equally sometimes the market may not be responsive to what they have to say. They may not have the right drive, skills or ambition to take the idea forward.

From a macro perspective there is survival of the fittest. Ideas, opportunities and entrepreneurs fail for different reasons, and at the end there may only be one or two winners. Schumpeter does not explain this process – he was an economist after all.

The question I am debating is that does the action learning process (or similar) have a real impact on innovation or those that take part in the innovation process?

Underpinning action learning is the ability of the individual to stay grounded in their decision making.

For those familiar with Transactional Analysis this would be staying in the adult space as a pose to the parent or child space. Once you go into the parental space you cease to listen to reason and tell others what you believe to be right. Decision making may be poor. In the child space you may “fantasise” about unrealistic opportunities or become very defensive when challenged. You may also find listening to feedback really difficult. It may cause you to become angry, to hide in a corner, or just not hear what another person says to you. This would suggest that being in the adult space is the only place to be.

For those familiar with a Johari window may understand that good relationships and taking action are underpinned by personal exposure to others of how you feel and want to take action on issues. Also self awareness is important. Have I got many blind spots, I have refereed to these as “holy Cows” or “Black Holes”.

Holy Cows are methods that we rely on, even in new environments. They may have served us well in the past. We therefore continue to use them in the future without reassessing.

Black Holes are places we are scared to go to, we may have been there before and failed. We may have seen others fail.

So in theory identifying and dealing with these holy cows and black holes can help us be more successful. It could help us become more able to deal with innovation. This requires a flexible person that can deal with change.

So Action Learning provides a supportive framework, challenges thinking, requires you to listen. It should help you identify one of your black holes, or a holy cow, and help you change your behaviour so that you can move on.

Surely this should be essential for any new business owner!!!! You often hear of successful entrepreneurs having failed first and learnt. Perhaps Action Learning can be a cheaper and less painful experience!

There must be some counter arguments.

Most of the arguments against will be around reality. Creative Destruction is a very difficult act. It requires big action, big conviction. Unrealistic? Or would others view it as unrealistic? If so would a group challenge fairly or unfairly the ambitions of a big thinker?

Does a big thinker with a serious project have to have some fantasy (or vision) to keep them going? At times it may be or seem unrealistic, especially to others. Would Action Learning help here?

Does a big thinker at times grit their teeth and tell others how its going to be? Time pressures, lack of understanding, or communication difficulties?

In other words should the person who is creating, informing, persuading always be well grounded? Should they always take feedback from others. Do they need to adapt their behaviour? Does the support of others add or take away?

My personal experience is that when I enter into a couple of hours (I may not admit to days) where I am very resistant to change I get stressed, perhaps angry, perhaps hide in the corner. It can be a negative experience, and when it happens I know I don't take positive action. It will be a holy cow, an ideal, that I don't want to change. It may be a place where I am scared of failure.

I probably waste valuable time dwelling on the issue rather than learning to move on.

For instance if you had £1m and a business opportunity for £1m how quickly would you spend the money? What is a sensible way to proceed (grounded). What is foolhardy? What is “cowardly”?

If you had been through an Action Learning programme would you spend the money more wisely? Or would you still loose it – just in a grounded way!

Sonic Soundscape testimonial

2007-10-03T09:40:00.000+01:00

Brilliant Stereo Sound That Follows You Across the Room

I’ve got a new best friend. It’s cool white, very discrete and called Dias. Thanks to Dias for the past week I’ve been listening to some great sounds while I work or unwind.

Brilliant sound is what Dias is about. I like a good stereo sound, over the years I’ve invested a lot in audio equipment and music CD ripping is my business now. But getting a good sound here, while I work, is difficult so I love the sound I get now. Yes, the quality is high – very high – but that’s not the main thing. Thanks to Dias I get a great stereo sound wherever I am in the office.

Incredibly Dias stereo sound follows you round the room.

There is much more! To read on please see Jeff's Blog

http://podserve.blogspot.com/

Jeff has enjoyed the sound so much he has offered to demonstrate the Sonic Soundscape in the SE of London and surrounding area. For more information please see http://www.diasmusic.com

Creative Destruction - Graffiti Removal

2007-10-01T18:38:00.000+01:00

Graffiti images might be amusing but graffiti certainly isn’t if it is daubed all over your property or you are tasked with removing it. Despite recent innovations in anti graffiti materials there is still a high demand for a safe, effective, non-toxic graffiti remover that can remove graffiti quickly and completely.The PRD Partnership started looking at the graffiti removal market this summer, and have found that it is a growing industry, with councils, businesses, housing associations and members of the public are keener than ever before not to have graffiti images daubed over their properties. It is estimated that over £500m is spent on street cleaning and associated tasks (including graffiti) every year.

We have teamed up with Ithiel Mogridge (Inventor and owner of Action Products Ltd), to target this market.

http://www.removinggraffitti.co.uk

Our challenge will again be that of information marketing. Whilst the benefits of “Safe Graffiti Gel and Wash” are obvious to us, it wont be obvious to everyone. As with any market, there will be resistance, not least from competitors who may not like a better product being more visible. The sale is always more complex.

The product uses surfactants to turn the paint into a jelly like substance that can then be easily washed away.

Non of the ingredients are classified as hazardous. A non hazardous graffiti remover

All of the ingredients are biodegradable. A biodegradable graffiti remover

Our website for a simple download of information and a chance to buy is:

http://www.removinggraffiti.co.uk

Metaphors part 2 - A SonicHologram

2007-06-11T17:11:00.000+01:00

Metaphors often help us to describe what we find difficulty in describing.

Ask someone "what is it like" and they will enjoy telling you in their own words.

At the moment I would like better words to describe our "Sonic Soundscape". I am asked whether the sound produced is "like surround sound", or "like a Bose", or "like stereo", and if I am being technically accurate it is not like any of them. Unfortunately that does not give a very good reference for people coming into contact for the first time.

We are toying with a "musical hologram" or "sound hologram" or a "sonic hologram". again I have problems with accuracy as a hologram is not really there, but gives a representation. Our Sonic Soundscape is there in 3 dimensions, it has depth (but not surround sound!) and breadth.

The speakers give a more convincing representation of a band or an orchestra, rather than lots of people crammed into a tiny space - does "musical hologram" work? Do e-mail me if it does.

Creative Destruction: Boldly sold: one-bed starship

2007-05-21T11:34:00.000+01:00

Sometimes it is important not to judge.

I never thought that this flat would sell - and made reference to it last year, and in many of the presentations that I have done. The debate in question was whether this was an example of innovation or not.

HINCKLEY A sci-fi fan who turned his flat into a replica of a Star Trek ship sold it for £425,000 – five times its market value – when he put it up for auction on the internet site eBay. Tony Alleyne, 54, left, spent two years and £30,000 recreating the flight deck of the Starship Voyager in his one-bed flat in Hinckley, Leicestershire, after his marriage broke down. It has moulded wall panels, blue lighting and a “transporter room”. The flat was bought by a Birmingham businessman.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article1796078.ece

Thanks Dave! https://www.nrg-networks.com/

Sonic Soundscape testimonial

2007-05-11T13:46:00.000+01:00

"I was very impressed when given the initial demonstration of the speakers, but it wasn't till I got home and plugged them in that I really appreciated the quality and overall affect. I have them hooked up to my television via the composite cables. I also route my computer and Wii through the television so it made sense to add these to my all-in-one solution.

The sub woofer offers substantial bass but is not what sells this impressively priced deal. I will confess to not knowing how the new Soundscape technology works, but I can tell you it works very well indeed. We have quite a wide sofa and a variety of seating positions. The SoundScape ensures a consistent experience no matter where you are seated. For those who feel they will lose out on a surround definitely have to try this as an alternative. My experience is that you get a much more atmospheric sound. Having used the speakers with a couple of games (mostly FPS's), at
increasingly immodest volumes, I can quite literally state it adds a real extra dimension to the whole sensation.

Even if you are not sold on the new technology the sound quality of is far far better than a similar price unit and I think equal to many units quadruple the price. If you are looking for excellent sound quality at a good price you've just found yourself a bargain. I am a satisfied and happy customer"

Hopes this is ok. I was watching lost the other day using the speakers and couldn't shake the feeling there were palm trees swaying in my kitchen!

http://www.diasmusic.com

DIAS MUSIC LAUNCHES NEW SOUND SYSTEM

2007-05-01T09:08:00.000+01:00

08:00 - 27 April 2007

Revolutionary new sound system has been launched by entrepreneurs based in Chippenham.

Dias Music yesterday launched the Airsound speaker system, which acts as a single speaker alternative to surround sound.

The new system is being promoted by former Department of Trade and Industry business mentor Roger Croft and designer Hubert Dias, who is already involved in research and development for the next model in the series.

The Airsound speaker is currently only being sold through the Dias Music website, but the firm is planning to expand and offer demonstrations through agents across the UK.

Mr Croft said: "We are the first people to bring this sound on to the market and we have worked very closely with the inventor to do that.

"The advantage of the Airsound is you get a spatial feeling which you wouldn't get from two speakers.

"As you move around the room the sound stays with you.

"It will suit people who move around a lot and anyone who feels they have lost their living room to the demands of their children wanting to watch television."

http://www.thisisbath.com
About Airsound
Dias Shop

Creative Destruction: Why did I buy an iPod?

2006-11-29T11:22:00.000Z

The creative destruction concept suggests that something new will replace something that is already there as it is a better solution.

In any market there will usually be a range of new solutions that will be coming out at any one time. Each will be examined, and eventually the best solution will take its place in the market as the leader (only to be replaced in time).

This suggests that each innovation must be what is wanted rather than being a clever solution to a problem that doesn't exist.

Why did I buy an iPod? I wasn't because I needed one for personal pleasure, or that I needed to complete my set of MP3 players. It was because I was interested in iPod dockers.

It wasn't until I started using the iPod that I found that the joy of having no batteries was a real advantage. I have been running through AAA batteries like there is no tomorrow. I also found that once you have all your music in one place and it is portable your CD collection becomes redundant.

The only thing that you want is to be able to listen to music in lots of different places - hence the need for a docking system that links to speakers and charges the iPod. The problem is that speakers are often small, from a single source, and although very pretty, lacking in sound quality.

The reasons for the poor sound quality can be the reproduction of the MP3s, but more often it is listening to the stereo is not ideal. Larger speakers take up space and are less portable. They may also be designed to go through an amplifier, again taking up space.

Bose produce top quality sound and probably have leadership in terms of technology and design. Their prices are higher and although aspirational remain a niche player in a large market.

I have been fortunate to be linked to "fieldofsound" through an associate. There is a patented method of producing sound that can fill the room. Instruments and voices are clearer as they have space. It is a new sound experience and we have had quite a lot of fun listening to the sound through guitar amps and conventional speakers.

The thought has crossed my mind as to whether this could become a standard way of listening to sound in the years to come, replacing conventional stereo, and to some extent the number of speakers that we have to have.

My "new way to lose money" has now already started. I was asked to form a company by Hubert Dias, and Dias Music Limited is preparing to trade in iPod docking systems and "field of sound" speakers.

The first samples are being shown to our network and the first 100 are flying off the shelves whilst we are preparing our promotional material and website.

I did buy 2 iPods yesterday for demonstration purposes. I was up half the night playing with music, but have managed to avoid getting distracted too much today.

My thought about creative destruction was that fieldofsound may present a case for listening to music differently. I doubt if our little business will make much of an impact, but it will be good to tag along.

Creative Destruction: A new way of losing money!

2006-10-31T13:23:00.000Z

Over the last few years I have earned my income through helping companies deliver new products and services. I was asked earlier in the month to help a new company with their formation and marketing plan, and find myself actively involved as a member of the company. Someone close to me remarked "Ahh, you have found a new way of losing money!"

As a therapeutic exercise I have been through my blog earlier in the month from the other side of the fence.

How long will the project take?

The project should be up and running early in the new year. We have got our first samples from China, and are making some minor improvements before making our first order.

The Simple Steps are below

Step 1 What are the different things I will have to do in order to be successful?

This could be:

Research - We are conducting R+D with a company in China, we have our first sample and should have a completed ready to go sample before Christmas

Development - We do need to set up a business, website, marketing communications, and have an approach towards how quickly we want to grow. Most of these things are in hand, and are timetabled to be finished before the end of the year.

Launch - we will have a soft launch in the early part of 2007. We also hope to let other people understand the product before it reaches the market. There is the possibility of selling in advance - and we do already have a number of interested offers from individuals who have heard about the project.
We are only going to order 100 products initially, and hope to sell them in person. This is in an effort to really get to know the customer well and have a clear idea of what they will want. (clearly we have a good idea of costs and end price and therefore projected revenues, profit and cash)

Adoption - we hope to grow to about 500 unit sales a month within 3 months (each order has a 45 day lead time. After which we have the option of producing different version of the product - and then repeat the procedure. This is the major cash need initially and how we finance this depends on a variety of factors - but we have acknowledged what the triggers are.

Growth - We haven't dared think too far about growth. Too many things could happen. We do have some desired outcomes - but we also face reality and feel that this could be a quick in and out of the market place before bigger players come in. We just have to be prepared for that moment.

Each of these stages could be spilt down further, but the key question is how much could each stage cost me, and over what time period.

We are at the stage where we are consulting widely on reaction to what we have - and with the lead time and deal in place in China we also know what our financial need is depending on demand.

Are you comfortable with the fact that you may burn through this money before you see any returns? If not this is as far as the project goes. (We have made sure we have some working capital!!

Step 2 Have I got access to the finance I need?

We have a mixture of savings, some agreement in China, and then commercial financing to cover the time delay whilst the items are imported.

Step 3 Can I get the people I need?

At the moment we have 3 people - and have identified items that need to be subcontracted. Yes has been the answer so far - it helps to have a large network!

Understanding your company's needs

At each of the stages mentioned above set your self some targets

For instance:

Research Â desired market value, potential revenue, gross margins, technical challenges, etc as well as getting a good feel for the more intangible factors such as demand. Viable strategies, controllable costs, and a project plan that can be implemented. This includes all the research work that you would put into a business plan. Each of the research findings should contribute in a positive or negative way towards the overall risk of the project. In setting targets or figures you would like to achieve before you start the research the review at the end of the research stage can lead to better decisions. Development will the design and production of the prototypes, the forging of relationships, and even tacit approval of your work so far.

We are in the middle of R+D - and we have had a couple of good discussions about how the business might unfurl. In order to do this we have concentrated on available cash and how we can safely turn this into revenue, cash and profit without overreaching ourselves. This does need to be formalised - but we are getting there. We have give a lot of attention to risk and how we scale, and to demand and how tounderstandd our customer. We are at the stage where we will show our samples to a few people andgaugee their reaction.

At this stage you should also consider your alternatives.

At each of the previously mentioned stages you have options:

Continue with the plan Â all is well
Go back and redo a step again e.g. redo a prototype
Consider alternative options
Ditch the project

In order for a project to go well it is important to define what Âgo wellÂ means, and indeed to understand the points where you make the other 3 decisions, each with their various consequences.

We have defined what "go well means" and we have approached the prototyping with a good attitude - and have taken an interative process where the product will be ready and right!

We haven't got many alternatives to this project - other than to work a little more on the day jobs to earn our living - perhaps this is something that should be explored further.

We are approaching this with a batch perspective - in order to reorder we have to hit certain targets. If we don't hit the targets we wont reorder. This is the difficult point - if we get our marketing wrong - but the product is right we will have to consider whether we put in extra marketing resource - what that should be and how much it will cost.

Make a rational decision

We are doing a feasibility study at the moment - I could point out various changes that we have made already - and how the shape of the project is changing.

You should now ask yourself the following 3 questions and rate yourself (on a scale of one to 10 might be suitable):

1 Am we able to deliver the new product or service? - score 7/10 (there are probably better people - but we are ina good position and it makes good use of our skills and passions)
2 Can I raise the finance? - score 10/10
3 Can I live with the worst possible scenarios at each stage? - score 7/10 - still unsure what they are - we have some control over how we expose ourselves to risk - and therefore best and worst.

I may have found a new way of loosing money - but at least I am doing the research and looking at how to manage risk.
Early next month I will make a post about what the project is - and whether I am still excited. If you are interested - do get in touch.

Creative Destruction: I have an idea - what next?

2006-10-01T12:59:00.000+01:00

I have an Idea! Where do I start?

This article will set out some ideas to get you started when you have had that good idea. The main aim is to help you set some benchmarks to help you decide whether you are going to be successful .... or not.

How long will the project take?

The time between starting a project and gaining revenue can be quite a long one. For some high technology companies it can be 8 to 10 years, for others it can be a few months. During this time your business has to meet the project costs. If it cannot you put your business and possibly more on the line. If you are prepared to do this, follow the simple steps

The “before you start” appraisal should be realistic, quick and dirty. It is approximate and its purpose is to make you think.

The Simple Steps are below

Step 1 What are the different things I will have to do in order to be successful?

This could be:
Research
Development
Launch
Adoption
Growth

Each of these stages could be spilt down further, but the key question is how much could each stage cost me, and over what time period.

This figure that is produced gives an approximate amount of cash (and time) you will need for each step.

Check the amounts out with those that know or have been through a new product development before. If you ask a few people you will be able to make adjustments to your figures bearing in mind the differences between your offering and theirs.

Are you comfortable with the fact that you may burn through this money before you see any returns? If not this is as far as the project goes.

Step 2 Have I got access to the finance I need?

For each stage there is a given outcome – and to achieve it there is a cash need.

You need to think of who would give you finance, the costs of that finance to your business, and the chances of being successful. Again there is a mixture of finding out the industry norms and relating to your situation.

For example - before you have any sort of plan in place it is unlikely that anyone other than you will give you any finance. If you are unwilling to finance the plan in any way – you wont convince anyone to give you money - you may as well stop now.

Step 3 Can I get the people I need?

Every project throws up extra demands on a company. It might also put demands on your skills that you cannot afford to give. This step is a rough rule of thumb. Importantly though you must consider skills that may be highly priced in the market place, and whether you can afford them, or want to be held to ransom as it may become critical.

Understanding your company's needs

Every person is different. Each person, and each business has a different attitude towards risk and reward. You do, however, need to clearly state what that is at the start of the project. This then needs to be translated into milestones or targets that need to be achieved for a given cost in order for the project to survive. The difficulty is that the milestones may not be related to that all important revenue or profit figure, and therefore you have to choose something else

At each of the stages mentioned above set your self some targets

For instance:

Research – desired market value, potential revenue, gross margins, technical challenges, etc as well as getting a good feel for the more intangible factors such as demand. Viable strategies, controllable costs, and a project plan that can be implemented. This includes all the research work that you would put into a business plan. Each of the research findings should contribute in a positive or negative way towards the overall risk of the project. In setting targets or figures you would like to achieve before you start the research the review at the end of the research stage can lead to better decisions.

You will want to reach a Return on Capital Employed figure that excites you, and avoid risk figure that scares you. We would therefore suggest that you check your research quite carefully, just in case you have subconsciously “cooked the books”. Again you might like to seek external views.

Development will the design and production of the prototypes, the forging of relationships, and even tacit approval of your work so far.

Launch
Adoption
Growth

At this stage you should also consider your alternatives.

At each of the previously mentioned stages you have options:

Continue with the plan – all is well
Go back and redo a step again e.g. redo a prototype
Consider alternative options
Ditch the project

In order for a project to go well it is important to define what “go well” means, and indeed to understand the points where you make the other 3 decisions, each with their various consequences.

For example:

Consider a building on a plot of land that you happen to own. You have applied for planning and have been turned down. Alternative options would be:

Appeal against the decision or offer concessions if you want to continue - but you can sell the land as it is at a lower value.

Later on in the project you may run out of cash. You can decide to borrow more cash, or sell a part finished business.

At each stage you always have options. The best of which is not always to carry on regardless of what has not “gone to plan”.

Make a rational decision

When you have had a couple of meetings and you have a good “dirty” idea of what I am letting myself in for, you can make a decision whether you are going to do the research (feasibility study). This may cost a few thousand pounds, but doesn't commit you to getting extra people, machinery, marketing spend etc that may be much more costly. It reduces your risk.

Having had a quick and dirty look at the overall project cost you will now have some targets in mind, possibly how much work is involved, and some outside advice or viewpoints.

You will have a feel for the ability of your company to meet many of the internal goals
ie those things that you do have control over.

You should now ask yourself the following 3 questions and rate yourself (on a scale of one to 10 might be suitable):

1 Am I able to deliver the new product or service? - score /10
2 Can I raise the finance? - score /10
3 Can I live with the worst possible scenarios at each stage? - score /10

The numbers may not mean much to anyone else, but they will mean something to you.

In our experience companies are more likely to succeed if they think clearly about the above 3 questions, and are realistic and comfortable with the answers.

As companies do more projects then they do have reference points and can compare ideas, and what they are more or less capable of.

If you have been through the above exercise and want to talk it through with us, or want to know more about how to conduct a feasibility study, do get in touch.

Action learning: Does it matter what I think of other people?

2006-07-10T10:48:00.000+01:00

What do you think of other people? Are there some you like, some you dislike, some you don't care about?

The previous post was about listening.

If you don't like someone - can you listen effectively to them - and gain something useful from the conversation? If not - why not?

If you like someone - do you accept their point of view more readily?

When you view other people do you view them competitively? ie - I am better or worse than they are

If so - If you think you know better - how well do you listen?

If you think that they are better than you - do you accept their point of view?

Much of this is about being able to listen accurately to other people. Not adopting a parental - "I know better" - or a childlike "I don't know the answer - please tell me"

Trying to adopt the right state of mind - when thinking creatively - or even in a business meeting can help a company to make the right decisions.

During action learning sessions part of the skill of the facilitator is getting the right interplay between the members of the set. This enables effective learning to take place so that the group members can go forward.

Does it matter what I think of other people?

It shouldn't - but it can cloud judgment - and then potentially lead to "destruction". Especially in a political or competitive organisation.

As a general rule - if you think that everyone is "OK" and that you are "OK" (I am OK - you're OK) - then this is generally neutral - and a positive state to be in.

roger.croft@prdpartnership.com

Action Learning - effective listening

2006-06-19T14:56:00.000+01:00

Within action learning having the right sort of climate is important. Trust is key to this.
For instance if you were having a meeting and the following signals were given, how would you feel?

1.‘I’m judging you’
2.‘I’m in charge’
3.‘I can manipulate you’
4.‘I don’t give a damn about you’
5.‘I’m superior to you’
6.‘My mind is made up. Nothing you can say will alter it’

(Gibb, J, (1961). Defensive communication. Journal of Communication, 11, 141-148)

Another Gibb (AA Gib, Enterprise Culture 1987), suggested that entrepreneurs focus on active learning and the opportunity (amongst other factors).

If this is so - that suggests that good business people are able to create the climate in which good learning can take place by them, and by others.

It would be good to say that action learning can help develop effective listening (perhaps it can). It would also be good to suggest that it therefore helps individuals in small companies change (purposeful change).

Thoughts can be e-mailed through to roger.croft@prdpartnership.com

Creative destructor: Changing behaviour

2006-05-26T12:19:00.000+01:00

If you start a franchise much of what you buy is a robust business method.

If you repeat the business method in the right way, you should be successful.

A business method, like many other things, persuades us to adopt a routine, not to question, and to repeat behaviour.

An entrepreneur wanting to grow quickly will have developed a business method, and then the growth is about that repetition.

Changing behaviour - what we do in given situations is often difficult. It represents a risk.

As individuals once we have "proved a concept" it is unlikely we want to deviate far from that concept. We therefore protect and surround this concept with defense mechanisms. If the time comes for change - we are quite resistant.

Action learning does provide a forum for changing behaviour - groups of individuals can pose questions and find out information about themselves, or about a given situation. This can allow them as individuals to change as required.

What is interesting about action learning is that in order to get the right dialogue going trust between members of the group is vital. Questions can push you as an individual into an uncomfortable space. You would find it very easy to put up a defense mechanism.

Change in individuals requires trust and good understanding of a given situation. Otherwise the change may be short lived or superficial.

Action learning does seem to be quite powerful - yet underused in business. It is as there is a lot of time that has to be invested. Other than time, they are very cheap to run.

Creative Destruction: Firms look outside for ideas

2006-05-19T19:06:00.000+01:00

"To roll out new consumer products, Procter & Gamble Co. has long relied exclusively on its famed research and development staff.

But over the next five years, fully half of the products it introduces are expected to come from partners, suppliers, universities, contract labs, and other sources outside the company." http://www.boston.com

Its always encouraging to hear this sort of news. Especially when you offer a complete soft innovation package! Do get in touch if you hear of any similar good news.

Creative Destruction: Scripts - The power of 2 words

2006-05-19T10:42:00.001+01:00

Just 2 words may have quite a large effect on us as individuals.

Consider swearing, or insults, many are very negative and target you personally. They attack who you are.

Particular words may take you to a dark place that you have been before - and you may not be able to resist acting out a script. What you do is probably of little consequence, and wont help solve the problems or issues that are at hand.

Positive words seem to be weaker. Or possibly we listen to the negative words, but don't hear the positive ones as clearly. Hypnosis is often used to help "reprogramme", by reaching into your subconscious.

One of my clients has developed a computer hypnosis programme and a methodology for helping anxiety, depression, and stress. Other disorders connected with eating or even smoking may be helped as well.

Have a look at his blog! http://computerhypnosis.blogspot.com/

Creative Destruction: Scripts

2006-05-17T17:39:00.000+01:00

Do you ever get a sense of deja vu?

You might get a sense that when ever this happens to me - I do this.

This is a script. You probably repeat scripts over and over again whenever you meet similar situations that prompt a similar response.

For instance a very "british" response to poor service in a restaurant is to become internally angry, complain to your partner and friends, and then do nothing and accept the situation.

This situation - and if you are guilty of the above action - is a script.

Falling into a script stops you evaluating situations and solving problems properly. They may also be quite stressful.

If a person prompts a script may be a couple of words spoken to you, a look, body language, tone or pitch of voice, or possibly how someone dresses.

If you are prone to a particular script there should be a solution or a process that you can go through to improve your own potential performance. Part of the difficulty is identifying your script.

How might you do that?