One of the biggest problems in high-tech businesses is that a “technology-focused” approach often tends to dominate strategic decisions. This is especially true among startups. This shouldn’t be a surprise, of course. Many founders of software and hardware companies tend to come from engineering, programming, or other technical backgrounds. This enables a corporate strength in […]
System Integration vs. Product Development
At one point in my consulting practice, I was engaged in assignments with two new client companies. Both of them had businesses selling to large, blue-chip customers. Customers of the size are used to “having it their way”. For these companies to get deals with customers of this stature they often feel the need to […]
Expense Controls for Early Stage Software and Tech Companies–Can You Overdo It?
I’m sure you’ve seen it too many times before. The free-spending startup software or hardware company burns through its funds like a cocaine addict on vacation in Columbia. It’s ultimately a sad tale, with great potential often wasted, many jobs lost and multiple lives hurt. But it is hard to feel sorry for the management […]
Software and Hardware Customer Service
An underrated competency in software and hardware companies–which should be considered MUCH more important– is the customer service function. I suppose that’s only natural; tech companies are very focused on gaining strategic advantage via technological advances and product differentiation. Once the product is in good shape, companies tend to shift their primary focus from product […]
Contrasting Software & Hardware Businesses
As regular readers are aware, much of my consulting practice centers on working with software-based companies such as SaaS and infrastructure software. But I have substantial hardware market experience as well, so I also work with hardware companies. A debate around hardware vs software business models is something that you don’t often see a lot. […]
