Four Eyes Can See More Than Two: The Need for Different Perspectives in Business Innovation

In conversation with my colleagues, we found ourselves discussing the intriguing world of free online services. The question that loomed large was simple yet complex: How do these services support themselves? How do they monetize what they offer?

The first and most obvious answer that came to mind was advertisements. But let's face it, we all hate ads. So, we dug deeper, looking for alternative solutions, and we stumbled upon an interesting concept.

A New Perspective on Monetizing Free Services

We arrived at a possible solution that free services could create the need for existing services. The existing service can then share a percentage of the profit generated by the new demand with the free service. This idea led me to create a scheme that involves two key players:

1. You: A person or company with wide knowledge and experience in an existing service or product area. "You" might be completely unaware of a possibility seen by Mr. X, because Mr. X can see the opportunity from a different angle.

2. Mr. X: A person or company with a different perspective. This person could be from another department, another field of education, or even another company.

The Power of Different Perspectives

Research suggests that people tend to group and work with others who think and view the world in the same way. While this may foster a comfortable working environment, it often leads to many missed opportunities. By embracing different perspectives, we can uncover new services and innovative solutions that might otherwise remain hidden.

The concept of different perspectives is not just about thinking outside the box; it's about recognizing that the box itself can be reshaped, redefined, and even discarded. It's about understanding that innovation often comes from unexpected places.

Your Turn to Think

Can you think of an example of a free service operating using this scheme? I've deliberately chosen not to provide any examples in this article, as it might constrain your ideas. The power of different perspectives lies in the ability to see things in a new light, and I invite you to do just that.

Conclusion

The need for different perspectives in business is not just a theoretical concept; it's a practical tool that can lead to real innovation and growth. By embracing the idea that "four eyes can see more than two," we can open doors to new possibilities and create value in unexpected ways.

So, the next time you find yourself stuck in a rut or facing a seemingly insurmountable challenge, remember to look for the Mr. X in your life. You never know where a fresh perspective might lead you.