Value Merchants

If you stop just for a second and look around you'll see the benefits of complexity being hawked and praised from every direction. Generally those touting complexity do so as a way of build their own niche into one that appears to have value. If it appears to have value then naturally they can charge you large sums for the perceived value.

Value really needs to be measured by "what you need". A group may create a spectacular presentation at your office that highlights what you can achieve by exploiting the value they are offering. Their perception of the value they are offering, may have nothing to do with what you need to achieve your business goals or meet your projections.

Before you engage any company or group that is selling their value, make sure you know what it is you need. Spend time mapping out your questions and the direction you want your business or organization to go in and stick to it when you meet with the value merchants. It is always possible to add extra value to your plan after the basic one is implemented but rarely is it possible to erase the extra value after you have already paid for it.

Rarely do the value merchants see the needs of your business like you would. Instead they see your needs through the colored glasses of maximizing their value.

As the short story that follows shows, value is everywhere.

A monk told Joshu, "I have just entered this monastery. I beg you to teach me." Joshu asked, "Have you eaten your rice porridge?" The monk replied, "I have." "Then," said Joshu, "Go and wash your bowl." At that moment the monk was enlightened. Zen Flesh, Zen Bones