Problem Solvers Why Many Companies Fail, and How to Avoid It
Jun 30, 2025
Arjan Singh, author and adjunct professor at SMU Cox School of Business, shares insights gained from working with top Fortune Global 500 companies. He discusses the importance of corporate war games in identifying strategic blind spots, using Nokia’s decline as a cautionary tale against complacency. The conversation dives into reassessing market assumptions and adapting strategies in the face of competition. With practical insights on wargaming techniques and scenario planning, Singh equips listeners with tools to build resilient business strategies.
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Nokia's Fatal Blind Spot
- Nokia assumed their mobile experience and hardware design would keep them dominant forever.
- This blind spot caused them to miss the iPhone's touchscreen innovation and led to their decline.
Use War Games to Challenge Assumptions
- Run war games dividing teams to represent your company, competitors, customers, and regulators.
- Role-play competitors to stress-test your strategies and anticipate attacks in a safe environment.
Student War Game Predicts Apple TV
- In 2006, students predicted Apple would enter the living room market with a streaming box.
- Apple launched Apple TV three months later, exactly as described in the war game.
