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In the commercial world, you have this problem that the…

“In the commercial world, you have this problem that the amount of research you can do in a company is based on how well your current business is going, whereas there actually should be an inverse relationship: when things are going worse, you should do more research.” quote by Alan Kay
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“In the commercial world, you have this problem that the amount of research you can do in a company is based on how well your current business is going, whereas there actually should be an inverse relationship: when things are going worse, you should do more research.”

Alan Kay

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Research investment should increase when performance declines, not decrease, to drive turnaround.

In simple terms: Do more research when business struggles.

Key Takeaway

Invest in research during downturns.

Themes

innovation strategy risk management

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

advisory strategic

When to use this quote

  • product development
  • market analysis
  • turnaround planning
  • R&D budgeting

Key Concepts

feedback loops resource allocation learning organization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can firms allocate budget for research in tough times?
  • What mechanisms ensure research continues despite poor performance?
A Different Perspective

Companies may lack resources to fund research when needed.

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