The Innovation Show

Ian Morrison - The Second Curve: Bracing for Changes in Technology, Consumers, and Markets

Feb 25, 2024

Futurist Ian Morrison discusses 'The Second Curve' concept, Microsoft and Apple as successful examples, shift to organic organisational forms, virtual integration strategy, and importance of adaptable culture in business transformations

50:17

Creator website

Episode guests

Ian Morrison

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Balancing existing business while preparing for new technologies is key for success.

Shift from mechanistic to organic forms and importance of adaptable corporate culture for success.

Deep dives

Balancing Risks in Transitioning between Curves

Transitioning from the first curve to a premature second curve can pose risks. It is crucial to find a balance between risks and rewards when adapting to new technologies, consumers, and markets. Examples like Steve Jobs' transition from Apple to Pixar highlight the challenges and successes in navigating these transitions. Understanding the pace of change is essential for successful strategic shifts.

Introduction

6min

Reflecting on Early Encounters with Technology and Influence of Innovation Models

2min

Exploring the Complexity of Predicting Future Trends and Innovations

4min

Navigating Business Evolution: The First and Second Curve

4min

Early Technological Investments and Challenges Faced by Established Players

2min

Navigating Business Curves: Challenges and Strategies

33min

The Second Curve: Bracing for Changes in Technology, Consumers, and Markets

The podcast sees futurist and author, Ian Morrison, discuss the concept of his book, 'The Second Curve'. This concept delineates how businesses must straddle their existing 'first curve' while preparing for a 'second curve' defined by new technologies, market shifts, and emerging consumer behaviors. Morrison cites examples, like Microsoft and Apple, of successful navigation from the first to second curve and emphasizes the importance of not abandoning the profit potential of the existing business too soon. Concerning organisations, Morrison discusses a shift from mechanistic to more fluid 'organic' forms, referencing shifts to more connected, network-driven models and an importance of corporate culture. He also explains the strategy of 'virtual integration' employed by companies like Apple, contrasting it to traditional integration approaches. Morrison finishes by highlighting the enduring relevance of adaptable, entrepreneurial culture in the success of these transformations.

Find Ian here: http://ianmorrison.com

00:00 Introduction: The Dilemma of the Second Curve

00:57 The Journey of the Author: From Geographic Change to Futurism

04:40 The Genesis of the Second Curve Concept

05:41 The Challenges of Navigating the Second Curve

06:47 The Impact of Technological Change on Businesses

09:02 The Role of Forecasting in Navigating Change

11:29 The Pitney Bowes Case Study: Navigating the Second Curve

13:13 The Importance of Timing in Jumping to the Second Curve

13:48 The Role of Innovation in Business Survival

15:18 The Impact of External Changes on Business Strategies

17:06 The Challenges of Adapting to New Business Models

18:37 The Role of Emotional Intelligence and Flexibility in Navigating Change

21:39 The Pitney Bowes Story: A Lesson in Navigating the Second Curve

37:16 The Role of Culture in Navigating the Second Curve

50:15 Conclusion: The Future of the Second Curve

IanMorrison #AidanMcCullen #BusinessInnovation #DigitalTransformation #SecondCurve #PitneyBowes #SonyVsDisney #OrganizationalChange #FutureOfWork

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.

The Innovation Show

Ian Morrison - The Second Curve: Bracing for Changes in Technology, Consumers, and Markets

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Balancing Risks in Transitioning between Curves

The Genesis of The Second Curve Book and Morrison's Career Journey

The Impactful Influence of Amara's Law and Forecasting on The Second Curve Concept

Learning from Successes and Failures in Navigating First and Second Curves

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts