The core of a company that can persist through time is essential to their success, such as IBM's impressive research accomplishments like Deep Blue and Watson.
Microsoft's mission started with placing a PC on every desk and democratizing access to personal computing technology. However, the thriving and successful parts of the company now focus on building platforms.
The failure of a product or project can lead to the development of new and improved technology and processes that can fuel future successes, such as Dell's just-in-time inventory system and James Cameron's use of new technology in Terminator 2 after the failure of The Abyss.
Entrepreneur Peter Diamandis encourages people to stop complaining and start finding solutions to the world's biggest problems, as they represent the biggest business opportunities. Advancements in technology have made it possible for individuals to empower themselves and make a significant impact.
The focus for venture capitalists has shifted to capital-intensive businesses, especially in the current economic cycle where trading off dollars makes more sense. This shift has led to new investment opportunities that were not previously considered.