So, you're sitting in your office thinking about your business. Or the business you'd like to start. Building a business is a daunting proposition, not for the weak of heart-or weak of wallet. The key is to discover something different that will grab attention. What's the old saw: Find a need and fill it?
Peter Meyer, principal of a California (where else) consulting firm that specializes in the subject of this book, suggests a different approach. Instead of competing with everyone else, create a new market. Makes sense. As Meyer points out, it's exciting, fun, and profitable. New markets are forgiving and, without rivals you don't have to worry about competitive pricing. Can it be this easy? Meyer lays it out in Chapter One: The Mystique and Challenges of New Markets. Prepare to have your mind opened, your thoughts stimulated, your imagination titillated.
The first part of this highly readable book (type size and leading enables this book to be easily read on trains and airplanes) addresses strategies. The second part with application of the strategies. Good model for this highly practical book.
The other chapters of the first section deliver ideas, perspective, and examples of how the strategies have been used. Balancing Your Resources and Opportunities. It's the Problem That Matters. Choosing the Best Risk. What New Markets are Available to You? Are you beginning to get a sense of the depth of content of this book?
The book is written in relatively short sections, so the reader never seems overburdened by the volume of text. I kept slowing down...because I was thinking about what Meyer said. Then I found myself taking notes, like I was starting to write a business plan. See what I mean? I predict that you'll read this book at least twice: once for a quick overview, then at least one more time (with Peter Meyer at your elbow) thinking, talking to yourself (and others), and constructing ideas that may drive your future.
Charts sprinkled throughout the book will guide in your understanding of the message. So will the questions tossed out by the author. There are many paths to take in creating, exploring, exploiting, and dominating new markets. Each alternative approach has its advantages and disadvantages. Your strength will come from understanding what's involved in your journey, and that power will come from this book.
Section Two concentrates on the application of the strategies. Funding the New Market Effort. What Role Does the Customer Play? Building and Dominating Markets Through Involvement. What is the Role of Information Technology. Using Credibility in Creating and Dominating Markets. What's Next? And the book closes with a good index to help you find what you want on your second and third readings.
This is the new frontier. You can be on the leading edge. It's a different world, as Meyer warns. If you think you're up for it-and the book will help you determine that readiness, this book will be your guide.
Now my review is done. I'm going back for my second helping!
