Stephen Nold

The Problem with "Tech Smart"
June 22, 2007

One of the privileges that I have in this industry is the opportunity to speak with entrepreneurs and innovators who are designing and building the tools of the future.  Coming from this same cut of cloth, I can appreciate and understand some of the excitement and apprehension that they face.  I can’t tell you how many times that I have been told that [insert innovation name] is extremely different than anything that is available today. 

It is amazing some of the same traits that are shared by these software swashbucklers: a zest for success coupled with gritty determination to see their big idea launched.  Their devotion to their product, which borders on obsession, is necessary to navigate and survive the myriad of setbacks and breakdowns faced by all entrepreneurs.  It is only a select few who can stay the course.

Recently I spoke with the CEO of a small start-up supplier that is yet to be noticed.  His product seems sound and his vision makes sense.  The meetings industry could use the tool that he has designed, and he has won the business of some important industry stakeholders.

The biggest challenge for this company will be converting the general concept of their innovation into a tangible definition that meeting planners and show producers can understand.  Centered on a back-end administration business process, it is tough to prove this tool’s significance.  After a thirty minute demonstration, I initially could not grasp any value for the product.  The CEO needs to turn over the sales promotion to a seasoned veteran since his rambling presentation made it difficult to stay focused on the product.

When I finally understood the vision of their innovation despite the distraction of incomprehensive CEO-speak, I realized they have a nice new mousetrap.  I also understood why they have not won market attention since they do not have the right person selling the product.  It is amazing how many really smart technology guys are in the meetings industry.  It is also interesting how many of these application opportunists cannot function well in social settings to save their lives.  Maybe they need to attend a conference that addresses personal communication skills, or perhaps someone can create some social education software.  Maybe that is my next new business venture.

Posted by Stephen Nold on June 22, 2007 | Comments (0)