KQ Article

Something excites me about every issue of The Deluxe Knowledge Quarterly. Sometimes it’s one article or idea in particular. This time, it’s the whole thing. I am thrilled we are dedicating an entire issue to the concept of bold moves — of taking decisive action to improve service, reengage employees and beat the competition.

These are encouraging times. We are fully recognizing the power of committed employees and loyal customers, and we finally — finally! — see how profoundly such conditions contribute to a healthy business. The conditions are also right for us to venture outside the comfort zone and try something new. All of the articles that follow urge us to go for it now, with valuable insights on how to make bold moves with the best chances for success.

John Spence reduces bold moves to a tidy algebraic formula, identifying talent, culture, focus and execution as the necessary inputs for effecting positive, profitable change. Raj Patel urges us to rethink the role of technology. And what “bold moves” discussion is complete without talking about disruptive innovation? We’re pleased to hear from an expert on the subject, Hal Gregersen. Gregersen explains how to become one of those people with a knack for seeing opportunity and making bold, smart moves to capture it. 

Speaking of bold moves, I’d like to acknowledge the departure of my longtime friend and colleague, Tom Morefield, who has chosen to take the daring step of adding another chapter to his career. Tom began at Deluxe in 1984 and has been President of Deluxe Financial Services since 2008. We were very lucky to have him all these years. I thank him and wish him all the best.

I look forward to introducing the new President of Deluxe Financial Services in the next issue. Meantime, I hope you find something that excites you in this one.

_{© 2010 Martie Woods}