Apple had several announcements that were relatively boring from a product perspective but very interesting when it comes to strategy. Plus, its new “Clips” app may point to new products in the future.
2017
On Agency Commissions and Fees, Google’s Advertising Changes, Foursquare Analytics
Following up on Ad Agencies and Accountability, first with a correction on agency fees, and then a discussion of Google’s announced changes. Then, Foursquare has completed its multi-year pivot, and it looks like a great business.
Ad Agencies and Accountability
Google is in hot water again, this time for ads placed against objectionable content. However, ad agencies and brands are just as responsible, and can no longer live in the past.
Microsoft Teams Launches, Integration Versus Hybrid, Complexity and Strategy
Microsoft Teams has officially launched, and the batter with Slack is as fascinating as ever. Indeed, it is perhaps the most compelling battle in all of enterprise software.
Waymo’s Lawsuit Against Uber, Existential Logic, Uber — and Google’s — Miscalculation
Uber looks to be in very big trouble if the allegations in Waymo’s lawsuit are true; this also may be what finally does in Uber CEO Travis Kalanick. Google, though, messed up too, in the same way they have before.
Intel, Mobileye, and Smiling Curves
Intel is buying Mobileye; it’s an acquisition that makes sense once you realize how much value there is in components.
Blocking and Tackling, Breaking Down the BBC Interview, Medium and Going Viral
A follow-up on Google Next and the definition of “Blocking and Tackling”, then, Ben went viral, and lessons learned
Exponent Podcast: To Be an Outlaw
On Exponent, the weekly podcast I host with James Allworth, we discuss The Uber Conflation. Listen to it here.
Google Next, Box Earnings
The Google Next keynote was lacking in vision, but Google still has a big opportunity. Then, Box seems to have turned the corner, validating their approach. Will more modern sales approaches work as well?
Tech Morality, Facebook and the BBC, Wikileaks’ CIA Trove
The analysis of technology cannot escape questions of morality, and certainty is dangerous. Plus, the CIA leak, and the difference between exploits and encryption.