As I sit in the coffee shop as much at work as I ever was when I had a "real" office, it really drives home the nature of structural change our businesses and economy are undergoing. When anyone can contribute to a business from anywhere, we are left asking what a business really is. Additionally, the opportunity to reduce cost by outsourcing is virtually limitless (even $0 may not be a practical limit as new revenue models are put in place where businessesmay actually be paid for doing traditional cost processes a different way). So what must remain core to all businesses?
At the inner-circle level, I'd contend there must be two things:
1. Harmonization of intentions. Whether your inner-circle is employees, partners, outsourcers or other stakeholders, it is important that they be carefully selected such that their business and other intentions create a harmonic resonance with your own. Without that, growth will be very difficult to foster.
2. Understanding and control of strong business processes to develop brand. Your brand is ultimately the impression you leave with your customer - and this impression is developedbased upon high-quality delivery, at speed for a favourable price. Each of these elements is the outcome of sound business processes (regardless of whether you or your outsourcer executes them).
I'd be happy to hear your thoughts on the above. Of course, if you're reviewing what is "core" versus "outsourcable" at this time (as many of you are) we'd be happy to be involved in the discussion.
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