“Copy and Paste” — The End of A Business Model

Before I began my growth in business, I did quite a bit of studying and strated being intentional about putting myself around those who had experience. Some of the first things I learned were that many people had different business models that they used to get them where they were and to sustain them. They all had completely different ways on how they reached “success”, but it’s what made them all unique and aligned them for long-term value. I admire the way they did what they did, and the paths they took for them at that time. However, a few I encountered simply copied the same models and formats that they saw others using. Although they may have gained short term value, they weren’t able to last the full extent of the race.

In every era of business there are those in the forefront that are highlighted as the innovators, and some truly are. I don’t want to take away from anyone’s hard work, but everyone has gotten inspiration from a model or principle they learned from someone in business. This is great and we can always draw inspiration from one another. What has been an issue for some time is that some used the “Copy and Paste” model. This happens when someone uses the exact same business model as another person in hopes to achieve the same results. This may work to gain value on a temporary basis, but it can simultaneously cause problems for the originator. This usually doesn't last long because schemes won’t outweigh strategic tactical value.

Schemes vs. Tactics

One of the key things that holds the most value in business is credibility and the way to obtain that is by way of consistent tactics leading to giving more value for those you serve. The issue is that some use schemes to obtain the most for themselves and that doesn't always offer the best content to the audience they're working with. What I’ve learned is that you can get away with schemes for a while, but efficient strategical tactics offers esteem and reverence from your customers and clients. Though these two terms may seem similar, in the end the difference will be evident. At times for some, it can be a fine line. I would encourage you to constantly audit the purpose behind your actions and remember to not only operate with good ethics but hold others accountable as well.

Out With The Old

It’s so important to be in a constant state of change for the better. This may sound like a cliche statement until you think of how often it’s not carried out. The way in which business is done today makes it even more competitive than it ever has been. There are plenty of businesses that I’ve come across that operate in a way that doesn't match the time they’re in, therefor they don’t last long. The most reoccurring theme is that each business tries to copy another company’s business model that worked for them thinking it would have the same affect. One of the most critical things that needs to take place is for the people to use the resources they have coupled with their own creativity relevant to the present era. This will separate them from the pack. It’s a given to study the basis of your field but it is also important to show your ingenuity and innovation as a entrepreneur or small business owner.

Distinguished Innovation

With the tools that are so readily available to small business owners and entrepreneurs alike, the ability to set yourself in a position to succeed is almost impossible not to do. With tools like Watson Analytics and Google Analytics, you can now see what your competitors are doing and how you can build up the areas you are weak in. Of course none of these are perfect all the time, but they are pretty accurate.

A significant point about these tools is that it exposes the similarities of so many businesses and almost forces brands to set themselves apart from the other. Having Influence is a key element when it comes to excelling in business, so having a narrative

that invokes creativity draws in sales. It’s great to flow steady — it’s another thing to set yourself up for scale-ability, and that requires a consistent fluidity of authenticity and creativity. At the end of the day, blazing your own trail will make you more valuable and spark others to do the same.