In order to set a course where you are considered the market leader, and one by which all standards within a respective market are measured, you must at times be “Disruptive“. In its purest sense, a “Disruptive” innovator is one who sets off on their own course, not always knowing where it will lead, but heads out to open water anyway. This course is strategic and set by the leaders within this Innovator. This open water strategy is set, but not completely known as it has never been crossed before. As a result, this market leader has followers, each looks to see where he has gone, not the course he has set. There in lies the competitive advantage of a “Disruptor“, one who sets his own course, constantly challenges from within and never looks back.
In order to become relevant and achieve leadership within your industry, you must at times become a category “Disruptor“. Innovation is driven not by those who Imitate, but rather by those who choose to take a risk. Without risk, there is no long term reward. This is not for the faint hearted, which is why so few have achieved market leadership, while others continue to feed off their success.
Always look to “Disrupt” in your category…
Always “Innovate, don’t Imitate”…
Always have a “Market Driving” strategy…
Enjoy the Ride…!
Bryan Smeltzer
W: bryansmeltzer.com
B: “Product Innovation and Marketing Success Blog…”
T: @bryansmeltzer
The author
I have a passion for living balanced life and a strong faith...each equally important for thriving and excelling…I love crushing mountain bike trails, exploring and finding ways to grow beyond the “status quo”. I am a dedicated, innovation driven team leader with a passion for establishing a disruptive vision and executing a market dominating strategy… Our industry has always been about creating innovative, market driving solutions that enhance performance or provide for a better life beyond sport. It has also been about culture, fit and passion for the brand. When these foundational pillars are removed, the brand starts to crumble. Being part of an industry that bridges talent between product creation, marketing, sales, finance and operations is formula for success, because every function is about building a foundational performance brand. It’s galvanizing when elite athletes wear and endorse our creations, but the real strength is leading the teams that combine their creative forces and technical expertise to make the engine roar. I am always passionate for defining and leading the next industry revolution… Extensive executive level experience across globally recognized brands, each number one in their respective markets, along with having founded and successfully sold my own branded apparel company. Whether establishing new product lines, building global marketing strategies, leading design/development teams, I have a passion for building and growing brands. Some examples; • Built Zamst from start up to achieving nationwide North American distribution, and 845% revenue growth over a 3 1/2 year period. • With Gathering Storm, grew TaylorMade/adidas Golf Accessories from $11M to $48M over 3 years. • K-Swiss, global executive management of $38M in international licensee’s and domestic apparel/accessories division. • OAKLEY, built and successfully developed “Athletic Division” NCAA licensed team eyewear/apparel product lines achieving $1.4M in initial season.