Invent Your Large Company Too

Former GM auto parts maker Delphi Automotive has reinvented itself since its 2005 bankruptcy. At 34%, its return on invested capital is now nearly double the industry average of 18%. How did Delphi accomplish these stellar results? It did so primarily by focusing on innovative products such as safety devices and electronics, rather than commodity products like spark plugs and ball bearings--in the process whittling its product line down by nearly 75%. Now, Delphi's criteria for accepting new orders keys on a judgement of whether it raises the return on invested capital, not just whether it keeps the production lines running or makes automakers happy. As with the rest of the US auto industry, it took a near-death experience to wake up Delphi, but its experience shows that even multi-billion-dollar corporations can reinvent themselves.

Patent Trolls Get Just Desserts!

The New York Attorney General's Office has cracked down on patent troll MPHJ Technology Investments LLC. I hope that this sends a message to other trolls! According to the NY AG, MPHJ targeted small-to-mid-sized firms by sending threatening letters accusing the firms of violating MPHJ-owned patents covering the process of scanning and emailing documents. MPHJ's practices will both shock and educate you. Be sure to see the AG's announcement.

America in Decline? I Think Not!

Well, I've got to admit that the U.S. can no longer sew dresses or forge hammers as well as China. But there are some things we still CAN do. See this video and consider whether America is in decline.