In Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Sign of Four, Sherlock Holmes famously enlists the help of the “Baker Street Irregulars,” a group of street-smart children with unparalleled access to the hidden corners of London. Holmes understood that meaningful insights often come from individuals with unique vantage points—those who can uncover information and make connections that others […]
The holiday season has a way of reminding us about connection. Whether it’s gathering with loved ones, sharing traditions, or even crafting simple paper chains to brighten the room, this time of year is all about the links that hold us together. Paper chains might seem like a small thing—just loops of paper glued and
Paper Chains and Linkyness – A Festive Habit for the New Year Read More »
In every breakthrough story—be it a successful product launch, a bold market entry, or the discovery of a game-changing resource—there is often an unsung hero at the heart of it all. These individuals aren’t the inventors, the marketers, or the executives who often take the spotlight. Instead, they are the connectors—the people who make things
The Heroes of Betweenness Read More »
In today’s complex, hyper-connected world, reaching beyond familiar networks to find new customers, identify game-changing technologies, and recruit talent requires more than just hard work and luck. It requires connectivity—the ability to navigate through diverse groups, spot trends early, and make powerful introductions. That’s where betweenness centrality comes in. This lesser-known concept holds the key
Unlocking Opportunities with Pathfinders: How Betweenness Drives Success Read More »
Social capital is at risk in the age of AI
The Importance of Social Connectivity in the Age of AI Read More »
Hardly anyone sets out to do harm but… In 2014, at the height of the Coalition Government’s enthusiasm for startup companies, Number 10 set out an invitation to 700 entrepreneurs with the opportunity to pitch in Downing Street. I know because I was asked to nominate some of the companies. Almost all downed tools and
What’s Your Accidental Damage Score? Now Let’s Fix It. Read More »
Intermittent Variable Reward
Intermittent Variable Rewards: Your Powerful New Magic Read More »
In an era where innovation is the golden ticket to staying ahead, the story of a $10 prize and a kite that played a pivotal role in building a bridge between nations serves as a remarkable example of how small incentives can lead to monumental achievements. This tale underscores the power of prize-driven challenges. It
The $10 Prize That Bridged The USA and Canada Read More »
You’re getting the meetings – but are you keeping the attention? “Never dump the whole roast on the platter” – a piece of advice from a 1930s Chicago exotic dancer recounted by Chicagoan David Bodanis, author of The Art of Fairness. Whether you’re a dancer or a business developer, getting the first meeting isn’t enough:
Calendar Density is Great – “Dwell Time” is the True Goal Read More »
KISS – Keep It Simple: Signal The power of prize programmes is their signalling effect. Done right, the value of the signal that the prize programme sends is many times more valuable than the cost of the prize itself. Our emotional reactions to prizes typically far outweigh our financial responses. We love a prize story.
Who Cares Wins: Why We Love a Prize Story Read More »
