Yesterday, I attended the county fair. I go every year — for about two hours — but would miss the ritual if I did not go. I get the same things to drink and eat as in past years and I have the same routine of what I see — and then mixed in are the new attractions at this year’s fair. It’s comfortable and the same, while simultaneously exciting and new.
It reminded me of the lesson from the classic book Built to Last which discovered that the most enduring companies have the yin/yang of Preserving the Core while Stimulating Progress. The county fair, now in its 71st year, is a good example of this dichotomy. There are so many elements that remain the same from year to year, but they are infused with new vendors, shows, and activities to keep it fresh.
Have you identified the components of your organization that are like beloved elements of the fair that remain for generations? And at the same time, do you engage others to determine what should be added to reflect changing desires? Walk around your county or state fair with new eyes and find examples of the core that is preserved and the additions to stimulate progress. There are many lessons to be learned at the fair (and yummy treats to be had as well).
Source: Built to Last by Jerry I. Porras and Jim Collins, updated 2011
