In the ever-changing realm of brand & business, flexibility is essential. Some of the most prosperous companies in existence today have not succeeded by adhering to their initial strategies but rather by making drastic changes to take advantage of new chances. This blog article explores the tales of five such businesses that began with distinct business plans but are now well-known for quite different offerings. Their experiences serve as a testament to the effectiveness of creativity and calculated rerouting.
1. Nintendo
Original Venture: Producing playing cards by hand
Current Fame: Founded by Fusajiro Yamauchi in 1889 , the video game behemoth Nintendo started out as a little Japanese company making handcrafted playing cards. But after trying with a number of businesses, such as a cab service and romantic hotels, Nintendo realized that the electronic game sector was where it belonged. With the release of well-known video games like “Donkey Kong” and “Mario Bros.” as well as gaming systems like the “Game Boy” and “Nintendo Switch,” Nintendo revolutionized entertainment and rose to prominence in the industry.
2. Twitter
Original Venture: Podcasting platform
Current Fame: Founded in 2006 by Evan Williams, Biz Stone, Noah Glass, and Jack Dorsey, the social media platform went by the name of Odeo and was initially a podcasting site. Soon, Odeo’s founders changed course when Apple’s iTunes eclipsed the podcasting industry. The brand of Twitter was founded as a result of Jack Dorsey’s concept for a platform to post “status updates,” and it is currently a popular worldwide platform for news and real-time communication. Currently the social media platform is known as “X” after acquisition by Elon Musk, the guy behind companies like Tesla and SpaceX.
3. Play-Doh
Original Venture: Wallpaper Cleaner
Current Fame: Founded by Kutol Products in the 1930s, the child modelling compound Play-Doh started off as a wallpaper cleaning solution during the Great Depression. The corporation saw a potential for education as the need for such a product decreased. Play-Doh, a famous modelling compound for kids, was created by repurposing the non-toxic substance to inspire creativity in all generations.
4. Flickr
Original Venture: Online Role-Playing Game
Current Fame: Founded in 2004 by Steward Butterfield and Caterina Fake, the hosting service for images and videos, from the ashes of the internet game neverending, the brand of Flickr was born. As the photo-sharing feature of the game gathered traction, its developers decided to change course. Flickr became a top platform for photographers and hobbyists to exchange and host photographs by concentrating just on this feature.
5. YouTube
Original Venture: Video Dating Site
Current Fame: Founded by Steve Chen, Chad Hurley and Jawed Karim, the online video platform, YouTube initially started off as a video dating site called ‘Tune In Hook Up.’ However, the concept didn’t take off. Recognizing the broader potential of a video sharing platform, the brand founders pivoted. YouTube is now the go-to platform for video content, ranging from educational to entertainment, making it one of the most visited websites globally.
These businesses embody the spirit of transition, demonstrating that being open to changing course is frequently necessary for success. Their experiences encourage both young and old companies to stay adaptable and receptive to new opportunities.
Stay tuned for more Tech Facts like these; this is your soon-to-be favorite friendly neighborhood techie, Zayaan, Signing Off!