The Art of Enterprise
You could say that the artistic value assigned to any piece of art is given by its distinctions. For example when evaluating a piece of art, you’re looking for the unique expression of the artist manifested in the use of tools they use. If the artist is a sculptor, you might look at how their chisel is used to create grooves and edges, whereas a painter might be glorified for their use of blended paints and strokes in creating their masterpiece. Even music can be is unique in its distinctive spaces between the notes that make a mega hit.
I see the world of business no differently. When you take a look at some the great Titans of industry, you’ll see that they each had their own expression or art inside their enterprise. These masters took on their businesses on in a way that used tools in a new and unique way that led to their success.
Take a look at the expansive industrialism of John Rockefeller, the sheer competitiveness of Sam Walton and the revolutionary vision of Steve Jobs. Each of these entrepreneurs achieved mass success, and yet the full expression of each enterprise was an artistic vision all on its own. Rockefeller was indeed a master of seizing opportunity. As the old saying goes: preparation + opportunity = success. Rockefeller managed the finances of Standard Oil with extraordinary rigor. He also borrowed heavily from banks when his company did not need the funds. This allowed his company to have such high leverage when competitor’s dwindled or when necessary expansion required significant capital. Because of Rockefeller’s high efficiency, Standard Oil was able to expand when competitors couldn’t. They were able to squeeze or buy out small competitors and within a short period of time, it literally dominated the market.
What the heck does that have to do with art? You could say that Rockefeller’s artistic passion was expressed through the discipline and skill in which he applied his principles to the ultimate vision of the enterprise.
Sam Walton, founder of Wal-Mart’s expression came forth through his intense competitiveness. In the early days of Wal-Mart, Sam was notorious for keeping a close watch on what his competitors were doing. Sam made competitive reconnaissance an art form. Mastering this art form allowed Wal-Mart to grow into one of world’s largest discount retail stores during a time when most others were going out of business.
Of course if there was anyone whose artistic vision could be seen inside their enterprise, it was Steve Jobs. When you look at the outstandingly successful products of Apple, you realize that this could only come from a vision of someone with great artistic qualities. In 1999, Steven Jobs made the distinction that his company was no longer in the computer business, but in the Lifestyle business. What was the result of such a bold statement? It would be hard to argue that the design of their products such as the iPad, iPod, iPhone, iMac and are not only beautiful, but have literally change the lifestyles of millions. Apple’s enterprise is a masterful work of art.
Sure, Martin, but why does that matter to my online marketing campaign? Well because I believe that that the microcosm of your business should resemble the macrocosm. Or the small model or vision for your company should be aligned with your big vision. If you can create your own distinct vision for your company, or create a way in which you do business that is a unique expression of you, than I believe that you can be very successful. Of course that kind of vision begins with the basics. When you have the basics, you can really think about what your business is about and how you best can bring your business to the marketplace. Using this strategy will give you a platform that can be a full expression of your enterprise where you can create your masterpiece. To get your online strategy in place today, email us at info@titaneer.com.
Cheers,
Martin Wilson
CEO/Founder
