Four inspiring interpretations

The Koos symposium proved an inspiring afternoon for a group of Koos’ clients and relations who were interested to know how companies can create a ‘growth machine’. We invited four experts to talk about growth from their own different perspectives.

Kees de jong – serial entrepreneur
Success is a mechanism you can steer: it starts with the right energy and people, inspiring leadership and shifting gears at the right moments. You need to implement the right systems and processes to accelerate (discipline sets you free!).

Wietze van der Aa – associate professor University of Amsterdam
From a scientific point of view we are pointed at the fact that growth doesn’t necessarily needs changing your concept. And while companies often produce enough ideas, real innovation starts at implementing them.

Rogier van Ewijk – CEO Terberg Leasing
Innovation power of organisations is a delicate and complicated force – it is a true art of finding the right balance between ‘build to last’ and ‘build to change’.

Maarten Korz – Innovation Manager Rabobank
It is important for organisations to get inspired by the environment and keep anticipating. Also Maarten mentions the complex relationship between large structured organisations (oil tankers) and the necessary small accompanying pilot ships defining new directions.

So what is the growth machine?

During the drinks, the aftermath quickly turned into the following discussion; Are we talking growth? Are we talking innovation? Are they the same thing? Do they have the same purpose?

Darwin already knew the answer: “It is not the strongest or the most intelligent who will survive but those who can best manage change.” Managing change however is great when circumstances change. Optimising efficiency & effect are skills that allow organisations to thrive and grow in more ‘stable environments’. If you want to survive & thrive in the long run you need to master both change & stability.

Concluding: the ultimate sustained growth machine = the ‘build to last’ machine x ‘build for change’ machine.

Want to join the discussion?

Let us know your thoughts!