Digital Connections

Sir Martin Sorrell: Sustaining Innovation In A Downturn

Interesting and thought provoking words on innovation from Sir Martin Sorrell.

“You can have innovation without branding,

but you can’t have branding without innovation.

So the real winning companies are those that are continuously thinking,

not necessarily as fast as possible,

but as thoughtfully and as focussed as possible

about innovation and I would argue branding.”

Newly Found Values

It’s my belief that continuity of reflection is one of the indicators of a good book, therefore a book that is able to maintain continuity of reflection during a second or third read is really something special.

I'm re-reading, "Truth, Lies and Advertising,” Jon Steel's 1997 book about advertising & getting to great ideas, and if I'm honest my continuous reflection is contributing to an enjoyable yet time-consuming read.

In the book Jon makes reference to the impact of the recession during the late 80's early 90's.

"For a while, many people couldn't afford expensive German sports cars, but it didn't stop them wanting them. Rather than admit they couldn't afford them, though, they justified their lack of action on the grounds of newly found principles and values.”

As I apply Jon's thoughts to our current economic downturn, I hope that the recent swell in green and ethical consumerism isn't predominantly fuelled by a lack of income and a touch of guilt.