TED: How to build a business that lasts 100 years | Martin Reeves

The video explores the concept of the human immune system as a product, highlighting its features like redundancy, diversity, and adaptability. It draws parallels between biological systems and business resilience, using case studies of companies like Fujifilm and Toyota to illustrate the application of biological principles. The video emphasizes the need for businesses to adopt biological thinking to thrive in dynamic environments, contrasting it with traditional mechanical thinking.

What is one of the key features of the human immune system as described in the pitch?

• It is a standalone product.

• It uses redundancy and diversity.

• It is designed for short-term benefits.

• It is highly efficient and simple.

Why is the concept of resilience important for businesses?

• It focuses on reducing costs.

• It is only applicable to small companies.

• It helps businesses survive in dynamic environments.

• It ensures short-term profits.

What led to the downfall of Kongo Gumi?

• Lack of innovation.

• Failure to apply the principle of prudence.

• Over-reliance on technology.

• Inability to diversify.

How did Fujifilm manage to survive while Kodak failed?

• By diversifying into new areas.

• By reducing its workforce.

• By ignoring digital technology.

• By focusing solely on photography.

What principle did Toyota apply to recover quickly from a factory fire?

• Reducing product lines.

• Outsourcing production.

• Supplier collaboration and modularity.

• Cost-cutting measures.

How does Essilor stay ahead of technological disruption?

• By avoiding new technologies.

• By acquiring and developing disruptive technologies early.

• By reducing research and development.

• By focusing on traditional markets.

What is a key difference between mechanical and biological thinking in business?

• Mechanical thinking focuses on long-term resilience.

• Biological thinking avoids any form of planning.

• Biological thinking emphasizes control over unpredictability.

• Mechanical thinking stresses efficiency and short-term performance.

Why do small entrepreneurial companies naturally think biologically?

• They focus solely on short-term gains.

• They lack the scale to buffer change.

• They can shape their environment through brute force.

• They have abundant resources.

What should businesses consider in addition to their competitive strategy?

• How to avoid any form of change.

• How long their competitive game will last.

• How to increase short-term profits.

• How to reduce employee numbers.

What is the irony mentioned about large companies?

• They never started as small companies.

• They are immune to technological disruption.

• They often lose the ability to think biologically.

• They always focus on short-term performance.