By focusing on gathering data through low-touch methods such as mobile networks and existing interactions between entrepreneurs and customers, Acumen is experimenting with methods of gathering impact data that has higher relevance to the enterprises they invest in at a fraction of the cost of traditional surveys.
The pivot they were looking for was a mix of proven business acumen, customer orientation, and the ability to make a large organization more decisive and accountable.
(Charan calls this the "pivot" because the succession decision turns on it). For example, when IBM was conducting a CEO search in 1993, many thought it should hire a technologist, but two directors saw that what the company really needed was an executive with business acumen, a customer orientation, and execution skills.
With their large staffs, established customer base and technology acumen, they can migrate into the space without major hurdles.
To improve individual and organizational performance, Gina employs a variety of training technologies as a certified business acumen, conflict, customer service, leadership, and organizational systems facilitator.
Women founders face the same obstacles as all startups, such as fundraising, building a customer base, establishing business acumen, and communicating effectively.
Most important, we established a "One Honeywell" culture in which we focus on business acumen, listening to the customer, and doing what we say we're going to do.
The company says its revenue for 2013 is double what it was last year, and its customers include Mashable, Rent the Runway, Acumen Brands, and Khan Academy.
The narrow perspective of legal services that lawyers created is being replaced by customer demand for solutions that require legal acumen but also demand much more.
I was impressed, not only with their business acumen, but with their approach to customer service.
Mr. Davidge's business acumen and heavy promotional spending to woo customers increased sales and finally propelled Christie's over Sotheby's to No. 1 in sales revenue in 1997, ending 43 years in second place.
