Business

Microsoft’s Surprising Windows 7 Promotion

Microsoft released Windows 7 last week.

Being an early adopter, I found this exciting, challenging, and frustrating all in the same week.

Speaking of Windows 7, I saw an interesting ad where Microsoft was promoting the launch in Japan through a cross-promotion with Burger King. Here's the ad.

Who knew that the best way to promote a new operating system and your expected user experience was with seven congealing meat patties and the smell of onions?

Maybe Apple took out that ad?

This is almost as funny as their Songsmith ads.

November 2, 2009
Microsoft’s Surprising Windows 7 Promotion

Microsoft released Windows 7 last week.

Being an early adopter, I found this exciting, challenging, and frustrating all in the same week.

Speaking of Windows 7, I saw an interesting ad where Microsoft was promoting the launch in Japan through a cross-promotion with Burger King. Here's the ad.

Who knew that the best way to promote a new operating system and your expected user experience was with seven congealing meat patties and the smell of onions?

Maybe Apple took out that ad?

This is almost as funny as their Songsmith ads.

November 2, 2009
New Version 4 of Shift Happens Video
Last week I wrote that my son (and his generation) won't communicate the way we do.

For example, he used 9,827 text messages and 564 MB of data on his phone this month.

I'm not going to pretend that I understand how I would use that many messages … But I'm beginning to understand that he does.

A decade ago, I couldn't have conceived the way we use trading technology today. The scope and scale of what's possible would have seemed like an improbable science fiction plot.

And that is the point. Some things seem like nonsense (or magic), until they become science and way things are done.

New Version 4 of Shift Happens Video

Fascinating presentation of facts, stats, and insights about how technology (like the internet) has been changing the world. Some of the tech that we take for granted is now at an inflection point because of the sheer mass of late-adopters.

It is worth watching and thinking about … as someone living in these
changing times … and in terms of how these changing times shift the
game and create a whole new set of opportunities.

While similar to the post on how Social Media is changing everything … this presentation focuses on the bigger picture and has a more general business tone.

I like the new
design and the added content; yet, found the music a bit distracting.

We are moving forward more quickly than ever. What you thought you knew about the
economy, technology, innovation, and the world are probably
out-of-date. I can't wait to see what comes next.
- Here is a link to a transcription of the presentation.
- Here is a link to the author's blog.
- Here is a link to the Shift Happens Project.
October 26, 2009
New Version 4 of Shift Happens Video
Last week I wrote that my son (and his generation) won't communicate the way we do.

For example, he used 9,827 text messages and 564 MB of data on his phone this month.

I'm not going to pretend that I understand how I would use that many messages … But I'm beginning to understand that he does.

A decade ago, I couldn't have conceived the way we use trading technology today. The scope and scale of what's possible would have seemed like an improbable science fiction plot.

And that is the point. Some things seem like nonsense (or magic), until they become science and way things are done.

New Version 4 of Shift Happens Video

Fascinating presentation of facts, stats, and insights about how technology (like the internet) has been changing the world. Some of the tech that we take for granted is now at an inflection point because of the sheer mass of late-adopters.

It is worth watching and thinking about … as someone living in these
changing times … and in terms of how these changing times shift the
game and create a whole new set of opportunities.

While similar to the post on how Social Media is changing everything … this presentation focuses on the bigger picture and has a more general business tone.

I like the new
design and the added content; yet, found the music a bit distracting.

We are moving forward more quickly than ever. What you thought you knew about the
economy, technology, innovation, and the world are probably
out-of-date. I can't wait to see what comes next.
- Here is a link to a transcription of the presentation.
- Here is a link to the author's blog.
- Here is a link to the Shift Happens Project.
October 26, 2009
Capitalogix Commentary 10/18/09
Dow 10,000 – Version 2.0.

SNL made a joke that hitting Dow 10K was different this time. The difference was that 15 million unemployed Americans cheered while they watched CNBC on their couch in their pajamas.

The U.S. Equity Indices continue to perform well. The economy, however, is sending mixed signals. At this point, some would argue that any positive economic signal is a welcome signal.

Mixed Signals: Two Charts Giving Us Different Views Into a Potential Economic Recovery.

The first chart shows that unemployment is still growing faster than new job growth. Recent readings show six unemployed people for each potential job opening. A glance at the chart shows that ratio is usually 2:1 (rather than 6:1). I'll be watching this indicator, and will take even a small improvement as a positive sign for the economy.

Speaking of positive signs of economic recovery, the next chart does show a hopeful turn of events (based on increasing Capacity Utilization).

Utilization has increased for three straight months, and is up from the record low set in June (the series starts in 1967). Capacity Utilization had decreased in 17 of the previous 18 months. An increase in capacity utilization is usually an indicator that a recession is over. Let's hope it keeps up.

When In An Up-Trend, Like This, Don't Fight the Fed.

I was reading "A Dash of Insight" and saw this investment hypothesis: "The government is on a mission. You may not like the policies, but as an investor, you fight it at your peril." In other words, don't fight the Fed.

Recently,
that has been a painful lesson to Bears trying to short the rally. The
result, a dramatically declining short interest. Here is a chart from
Bespoke, illustrating that point.

At a certain point, the lack of sellers
becomes the contrarian indicator that we are near a top. Again, in
trending markets, too much thinking is dangerous. Just consider this
another indicator to watch when the up-trend finally breaks.

Business Posts Moving the Markets that I Found Interesting This Week:
- Impacts of High-Frequency Trading – Manipulation, Distortion or Improvement? (Wharton)
- Blue Chips Top 10,000 for the First Time in a Year. (WSJ)
- Loose Monetary Policy: When Will Wall Street's Biggest Gravy Train Slow? (WSJ)
- Goldman Sachs Sees a "Perfect Storm" for M&A. (StreetInsider)
- Venture Capital Exits Dallas and Other Places Outside of Silicon Valley. (WSJ)
- Pessimistic Commentators Remain Anything But Convinced by the Rally. (Economist)
- Bloomberg Buys BusinessWeek From McGraw-Hill. (StreetInsider)
- More Posts Moving the Markets.
Lighter Ideas and Fun Links that I Found Interesting This Week
- Mossberg Gives Windows 7 a Good Review. (WSJ)
- White House Tells Fox Network News to Take a Hike. (Newser)
- Patent Auctions Offer Protections to Inventors. (NYTimes)
- Facebook Has a Happiness Index Drawn From Posts. (NYTimes)
- Anthropologist: Modern Male Is 'Worst' Man Ever. (Newser)
- Un-Tapped Potential: Autistic Savant Draws Cities from Memory. (Wiltshire)
- Cool Chart of Apple's Path To 2 Billion iPhone App Downloads. (BusinessInsider)
- More Posts with Lighter Ideas and Fun Links.
October 18, 2009
Capitalogix Commentary 10/18/09
Dow 10,000 – Version 2.0.

SNL made a joke that hitting Dow 10K was different this time. The difference was that 15 million unemployed Americans cheered while they watched CNBC on their couch in their pajamas.

The U.S. Equity Indices continue to perform well. The economy, however, is sending mixed signals. At this point, some would argue that any positive economic signal is a welcome signal.

Mixed Signals: Two Charts Giving Us Different Views Into a Potential Economic Recovery.

The first chart shows that unemployment is still growing faster than new job growth. Recent readings show six unemployed people for each potential job opening. A glance at the chart shows that ratio is usually 2:1 (rather than 6:1). I'll be watching this indicator, and will take even a small improvement as a positive sign for the economy.

Speaking of positive signs of economic recovery, the next chart does show a hopeful turn of events (based on increasing Capacity Utilization).

Utilization has increased for three straight months, and is up from the record low set in June (the series starts in 1967). Capacity Utilization had decreased in 17 of the previous 18 months. An increase in capacity utilization is usually an indicator that a recession is over. Let's hope it keeps up.

When In An Up-Trend, Like This, Don't Fight the Fed.

I was reading "A Dash of Insight" and saw this investment hypothesis: "The government is on a mission. You may not like the policies, but as an investor, you fight it at your peril." In other words, don't fight the Fed.

Recently,
that has been a painful lesson to Bears trying to short the rally. The
result, a dramatically declining short interest. Here is a chart from
Bespoke, illustrating that point.

At a certain point, the lack of sellers
becomes the contrarian indicator that we are near a top. Again, in
trending markets, too much thinking is dangerous. Just consider this
another indicator to watch when the up-trend finally breaks.

Business Posts Moving the Markets that I Found Interesting This Week:
- Impacts of High-Frequency Trading – Manipulation, Distortion or Improvement? (Wharton)
- Blue Chips Top 10,000 for the First Time in a Year. (WSJ)
- Loose Monetary Policy: When Will Wall Street's Biggest Gravy Train Slow? (WSJ)
- Goldman Sachs Sees a "Perfect Storm" for M&A. (StreetInsider)
- Venture Capital Exits Dallas and Other Places Outside of Silicon Valley. (WSJ)
- Pessimistic Commentators Remain Anything But Convinced by the Rally. (Economist)
- Bloomberg Buys BusinessWeek From McGraw-Hill. (StreetInsider)
- More Posts Moving the Markets.
Lighter Ideas and Fun Links that I Found Interesting This Week
- Mossberg Gives Windows 7 a Good Review. (WSJ)
- White House Tells Fox Network News to Take a Hike. (Newser)
- Patent Auctions Offer Protections to Inventors. (NYTimes)
- Facebook Has a Happiness Index Drawn From Posts. (NYTimes)
- Anthropologist: Modern Male Is 'Worst' Man Ever. (Newser)
- Un-Tapped Potential: Autistic Savant Draws Cities from Memory. (Wiltshire)
- Cool Chart of Apple's Path To 2 Billion iPhone App Downloads. (BusinessInsider)
- More Posts with Lighter Ideas and Fun Links.
October 18, 2009
The Game Is Changing

Mergers and Acquisitions are likely to increase before the next big bull run. This chart shows that we aren't there yet.

We're at the point in the economic recovery cycle where a lot of companies have folded, or will soon fold. On the other hand, the survivors are starting to see the clearing … or at least the light at the end of the tunnel. Consequently, I expect to see more merger and acquisition activity at the next pull-back.

This will help the strong get stronger … But it will also serve as a catalyst to new growth and new leaders.

M&A Isn't the Only Way.

This is a great environment to incubate what comes next. During downturns, some people lose their money, business, or hope. During that same period, other people recognize and seize the opportunity to create something great.

There so much talent on the street right now looking for work … yet there is even more looking for something that inspires them.

At the same time, technology continues to
get better. And that just means it continues to get cheaper and easier to implement
great ideas and scalable businesses.

Consequently, I think a lot of talent is going to switch from the confines of
corporate America to more entrepreneurial ventures. Bright minds will
shed cost-cutting cultures and management-by-committee for virtual
teams of talented individuals looking to innovate and operate more
nimbly.

Something Old is New Again.

Sometimes new things come from familiar faces. There are many
successful entrepreneurs who have been to the brink, and back. What's
interesting is that
they tend to succeed faster, later in their
careers. It makes sense if you think about it; losing money or facing a
setback doesn't take away the other skills that they had … so their
next venture is easier for them simply because they
are more experienced and better seasoned.

Nonetheless, I'm confident that we will soon see a new wave of
the business leaders emerge. I'm curious who you think the likely winners will be?

October 11, 2009
How To Keep Track of the National Debt

The Big Red Calculator.

I've known Matt Miles for years; and he does what's necessary to make a point. He is also a smart and successful entrepreneur. The result, a new company called Big Red, that makes a calculator with enough digits to display the national debt.

In his own words: "The Big Red Calculator, a 16-digit calculator, makes your old calculator extinct! First we owed millions. Then it was billions! And now-thanks to those wonderful people who brought you deficit spending, we've shattered the trillion-dollar ceiling. It truly is a proud moment. But how can the average American keep track of such an incomprehensible number? The answer is Big Red Calculator. It is "the official calculator of the national debt". Endorsed by professional spenders! Ensuring that "no digit is left behind", this calculator displays the largest collection of zeros ever assembled." Yes, you can buy one at Amazon.

October 4, 2009
How To Keep Track of the National Debt

The Big Red Calculator.

I've known Matt Miles for years; and he does what's necessary to make a point. He is also a smart and successful entrepreneur. The result, a new company called Big Red, that makes a calculator with enough digits to display the national debt.

In his own words: "The Big Red Calculator, a 16-digit calculator, makes your old calculator extinct! First we owed millions. Then it was billions! And now-thanks to those wonderful people who brought you deficit spending, we've shattered the trillion-dollar ceiling. It truly is a proud moment. But how can the average American keep track of such an incomprehensible number? The answer is Big Red Calculator. It is "the official calculator of the national debt". Endorsed by professional spenders! Ensuring that "no digit is left behind", this calculator displays the largest collection of zeros ever assembled." Yes, you can buy one at Amazon.

October 4, 2009
Sometimes Simple Is Better

This simple communication tool had a huge impact on our project management.

I took for granted that our team was working towards the same vision, that we were aligned, and that we had a clear understanding of what constituted success.I was only partly right. Here are some of the things we did to fix it.

Perception Changes With Focus.

The timeframe someone focuses on tells a lot about that person's level in a company. For example, people producing work tend to focus on what they're doing that day or week. Managers have a slightly longer timeframe, and may be looking at monthly production. Some executives are looking at the next year or two; while the CEO is often looking much further out than that.

On a generic level, it is easy to think about the future. On the other hand, for someone working on the day-to-day operational details, it's much harder to figure-out how to go from where we are to even the very next step.

Alignment Is a Key to Momentum and Progress.

Aligning vision, strategy, and tactics is important to make sure that
what we're doing now supports our ultimate goal and moves us in the
right direction. Consequently, one of the goals of the planning exercise is to create a clear path so each person understands what they're doing, and how what they're doing up takes us closer to our ultimate goal.

A Quick Look Backwards.

One of the ways we have done this is to talk about some of the past iterations of technologies that we've gone through. Doing this helps reinforce how much progress we've already made, as well as to recognize which things really marked the ending of one phase – or the beginning of another.

Looking back, we identified seven major phases of technology. We agreed to call what we're currently doing version 7.0. We also agreed on which features and functions would constitute version 8.0. In other words, here is where we are … And here is where we want to be.

A Clear Path Forwards.

Then, we identified five stages to get from here to there. The first stage will take about one month, and we're calling it version 7.1. The key is that the team understands that 7.1 Is an important milestone on the path towards a bigger goal. However, it's specific, measurable, and actionable. Each person understands what they have to do, and what the project plan looks like to get from here to there.

Accepting the Journey.

We talked about why version 7.1 was an important step for us. We discussed what it will entail, and how we will know that it's complete. Then we had each person sign the sheet indicating that they agreed with and accepted these specifications.

It sounds silly, but getting people to sign the sheet that documented a complete understanding of "who, what, when, where, and why" was important and freeing. It unlocked each person's unique abilities and gave them a clear path forward.

Think about an area in your business or personal life that could use a little more transparency, clarity and unconditional agreement. Perhaps this simple tool can make it better?

Hope that helps.

September 28, 2009