I don't think that you can invent on behalf of customers…
“I don't think that you can invent on behalf of customers unless you're willing to think long-term, because a lot of invention doesn't work. If you're going to invent, it means you're going to experiment, and if you're going to experiment, you're going to fail, and if you're going to fail, you have to think long term.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Long‑term invention requires willingness to experiment, fail, and think beyond immediate results.
In simple terms: Invent with patience and accept failure.
Key Takeaway
Plan for future payoff.
Themes
innovation
risk
long‑term thinking
Mood
cautious
forward‑looking
Type
strategic
reflective
When to use this quote
- product development
- startup strategy
- policy planning
- research labs
Key Concepts
R&D
market disruption
Questions to Reflect On
- Are you prepared for failure?
- How do you balance short and long term?
A Different Perspective
Short‑term pressures may impede patience.