Where's the edge

We are all worrying about the global economic downturn. Our businesses may be suffering. But the real entrepreneurs start to look for the opportunities hidden in this crisis. They are there - we just have to uncover them.

Don't pretend its productive

I'm a bit of a gadget freak ... and I also like experimenting with software and online services. My new 'hit' is Evernote a note-based programme/service that I find very useful because it helps me synchronise information across multiple platforms (including my Windows mobile phone). It makes me more productive ...

.... but I know that I take too much time 'playing' with gadgets and software that are not productive so that I can find the occasional gem like Evernote.

So, use the tools you know that work. By all means experiment for fun ... but don't expect higher productivity ... the 'cost' of playing around outweighs the benefits.

Focus!

An interesting comment from a senior exec at Pfizer, the (very big) drug company.
They are selling a number of experimental treatments to competitors - these are drugs they have been working on for various conditions ... but they have now taken a strategic direction to focus on cancer, brain disorders and pain relief. Drugs for obesity (and other afflictions) are surplus to requirements.

There is a lesson for the smaller guys in here ... work out what you do well and what you should be doing ... then ditch all the extra stuff that doesn't fit in those two compartments.