Author Malcolm Gladwell has popularized the term “tipping point”: a point at which bleeding edge becomes cutting edge or even mainstream. PC Magazine defines “tipping point” as the “point in time in which technology, procedure, service, or philosophy has reached critical mass and becomes mainstream.” Some try to draw a line in the sand and declare that “now is the time everything changes”. The problem is the marketplace appears to be a moving tipping point, tipping in some areas of the country before others, and even tipping differently within companies, projects, workgroups and industries.
The firm or individual that is not acquainted with the latest machinery, methods, processes and requirements of their business is at a decided disadvantage in competition and is not in a position to render efficient service to his customers or clients. — Elgin E. Mott, First President of International Association of Blue Print and Allied Industries (1928)
When it tips for you or your client, you will want to be ready to tip with it, to anticipate new needs and requirements for service. That is the only way we can continue to partner with our clients, rather than simply offer a list of services for those who can still utilize them. We certainly want to listen carefully to our customers, but we must realize they are looking to our industry for solutions. We have to supply answers to their questions or another industry will fill that void.