GQG Insights | Locally to Globally

Visioning, Strategic Planning, Facilitating, and Consulting Services

noreply@blogger.com (Greg Hansen) — Sat, 03 Aug 2013 23:51:00 +0000

A Five-star Salute to a Three-star General

noreply@blogger.com (Greg Hansen) — Sat, 02 Feb 2013 23:12:00 +0000

From Pigeons To Tweets is a fascinating story that weaves the history of telecommunications and technology development, advances, and uses during the period from the Korean War to present.

It highlights major events, including launch of Sputnik, Cuban missile crisis, Viet Nam War, collapse of the Berlin Wall, breakup of Bell System, and global war on terrorism, by focusing on the challenges and opportunities faced by the U.S. Military during them.

The author, Lt. Gen. Clarence "Mac" McKnight, U.S. Army (retired), a 1952 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, also intersperses his educational, professional, and personal lives with these events and evolution of technology.

Gen. McKnight served in the Korean War when they literally used carriers pigeons to help headquarters communicate with frontline troops. Over the years, as his career advanced to becoming a three-star, Gen. McKnight eventually headed the U.S. Army Signal Corps worldwide with more than 33,000 troops under his command.

Although Gen. McKnight retired in 1987 after 35 years of active service to his country, he has remained very active serving on boards of directors for many organizations, including the National Science Center, Community Learning and Information Network (CLIN), and the National Trust for the Wounded Warriors, among others.

He also is a strong advocate for lifelong learning and education, including science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics, and music (STEAM2). Gen. McKnight is committed to helping people of all ages, especially children and youth, to be educated.

Over the years, Gen. McKnight has received many awards and honors for his distinguished service, including the West Point Association of Graduates 2008 Distinguished Graduate Award.

His book, which was released by History Publishing Company on January 15, 2013, offers an interesting historical perspective on the significant developments during the last six decades. Gen. McKnight not only lived during these years and served his country with distinction, but he also helped lead the way.

The smartphones, tablet devices, and other technologies that people of all ages use today have been directly and indirectly impacted by Gen. McKnight and other members of the different branches of the U.S. Military, who partnered with the private sector, especially Bell Labs, to make them a reality.

From Pigeons To Tweets is a must read for anyone with a strong interest in communications, especially to better understand the key leadership role and relationship of the U.S. Army Signal Corps with research, development, and deployment of state-of-the-art telecommunications and technologies over the years.

I've had the pleasure of knowing "Mac" since April 1993 through the national CLIN. He's served as chairman of CLIN's Board of Directors for more than 21 years. Mac has become a good friend and mentor over the years.

Mac spoke at the Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science at Portland State University on January 15, 2013. He also was the inaugural speaker at the first event at the new Living Computer Museum (LCM) in Seattle on January 17. The LCM is the newest endeavor of Paul Allen and Vulcan Inc. Mac spoke to 250 members of the Microsoft Alumni Network there.

Gen. McKnight is a visionary, a leader, a hard worker, and a communicator. He's also a husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to many people around the world. He's an inspiration and model for a life of service to his faith, family, friends, and country.

I applaud Gen. McKnight for his outstanding lifetime of service along with capturing and sharing his experiences and insights in this excellent book. It receives a five-star review in my humble opinion. I highly recommend you read Gen. McKnight's book. It's available online and through retail stores.

Best wishes,

Greg Hansen

Creating Jobs and Stimulating Oregon's Economy

noreply@blogger.com (Greg Hansen) — Sat, 22 Sep 2012 12:35:00 +0000

Marketing and Exporting Oregon’s “Acres of Diamonds[1]”

Introduction

More than 3.8 million people call Oregon home. Oregonians are talented, educated, knowledgeable, experienced, motivated, and innovative. Today, in many respects, they’re pioneers like the men, women, and children who risked everything and traveled over the Oregon Trail to the “land of opportunity” in the 1850’s.

Whether individually or as members of non-profit, public, and/or private organizations, they have created and produced a wide range of goods, products, services, solutions, and other intellectual property. While primarily purchased and/or used locally, many items are marketed around the United States. Some are exported globally, too.

However, most items are known and/or used only by the individual or organization that created them. Yet, they have significant potential to be purchased and utilized by consumers and organizations in other communities, states, and/or countries. The traded sector outside Oregon represents a major opportunity for stimulating the economy, creating jobs, and generating revenues for individuals along with public, non-profit, and private organizations, including the State of Oregon.

Based upon the concept of “Acres of Diamonds”, as advanced by Russell Conwell in the late 1800’s, Oregon has an opportunity to discover, mine, and market these gems to others, now and in the future. Oregonians would be surprised and pleased at the response elsewhere to items that are “Pioneered in Oregon℠”.

What if Oregon could:

Enable public agencies and non-profit organizations to market domestically and export globally their goods, products, services, and solutions to generate monies to support public services and programs in Oregon?
Offer individual private citizens the opportunity to export their talents, knowledge, skills, and expertise to help private, public, and non-profit organizations in other states and countries, virtually and/or physically?
Grow its economy and generate more revenues by more aggressively helping new and existing businesses to market domestically and export internationally their goods, products, services, and solutions?
Facilitate capital from banks and governments in other states and countries coming to Oregon to fund creation and expansion of jobs?
Develop and implement a program modeled after the successful Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), which has operated for more than 75 years (including 58 Oregon businesses served during 2007-2012)?
Provide local governments, school districts, other public entities, and non-profit organizations as well as private citizens and businesses the opportunity to invest in Oregon-based entities to grow Oregon’s economy and create jobs?
Support the Oregon Growth Board’s objective to increase the availability and connect Oregon businesses to sources of capital, as well as to state loan and technical assistance programs so that employers can reach their job-creating potential.
Develop a model for other states and countries?

What if Pioneered In Oregon℠ became a reality in 2013?

How could a statewide, collaborative initiative address needs and achieve objectives for creating jobs, generating revenues, and improving economies in rural, suburban, and urban areas for Oregon's:

Non-profit organizations;
Cities and towns;
Counties;
Special districts and ports;
School districts;
Universities;
Community colleges;
State departments and agencies;
Federal departments and agencies;
Service clubs and civic organizations;
Businesses; and
Individual citizens.

What would it mean to Oregonians, today and tomorrow?

Capitalization

The financial requirements to successfully initiate Pioneered In Oregon℠ are presented in two phases:

Phase I – Planning and Development:

Conduct market research with private, public, and non-profit organizations;
Assess current goods, products, services, solutions, and/or intellectual property developed and owned by private, public, and non-profit organizations;
Investigate current commercialization activities in Oregon through universities, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and other entities;
Explore models in other states and countries;
Examine options (e.g., Oregon Capital Scan, EXIM, EB-5, ETO – SB 1149, ORS 190, Oregon Growth Board, SBDC, SBA, Lottery, EDD, counties, ORPIN, Connectory, crowdfunding, Facebook, LinkedIn);
Engage and discuss model with leaders of private, public, and non-profit organizations (e.g., OSBA, LOC, AOC, OCCA, SDAO, NAO, AOI, NFIB, Chambers);
Develop business plan (including organizational structure, naming, branding, marketing, financial projections, accounting, and legal);
Protect intellectual property; and
Funding requirement - $250K, term – 1 year; sources – foundations, state associations, corporations, and/or State.

Phase II - Execution and Management:

Implement business plan;
Secure strategic partners;
Market program;
Seed funding for product development, production, marketing, and distribution;
Manage Pioneered In Oregon℠ (or whatever name is selected);
Evaluate effectiveness; and
Funding requirement - TBD, term - 4-5 years; sources – State, foundations, state associations, percentage of revenues from traded sector with other states and countries.

If you think this concept has merit, please discuss it with elected and appointed local and state officials. If you're interested in becoming involved in additional ways, please email me - ghansen@gqg-mr.com.

Thank you for the consideration.

Together, we can make a positive difference.

Best wishes,

Greg Hansen

President and Managing Director

GQG I strategy + research + marketing

One World Trade Center

121 S.W. Salmon Street, Suite 1100

Portland, OR USA 97204

503.471.1397

ghansen@gqg-mr.com

www.gqg-mr.com

[1] Based upon concepts from Acres of Diamonds, Russell Conwell, 1960, Jove Book. Origin: Russell Conwell, www.temple.edu/about/Acres_of_Diamonds.htm

Questions + Ideas + Collaboration = Synergy

noreply@blogger.com (Greg Hansen) — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 17:36:00 +0000

Most people are influenced by the words of others. The words of these individuals, among others, have made a difference to me:

"…there are no answers, only further questions." Saul Alinsky

“Great minds discuss ideas; Average minds discuss events; Small minds discuss people.” Eleanor Roosevelt

“Our duty, as men and women, is to proceed if limits to our abilities did not exist. We are collaborators in creation.” Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

A simple answer to a question may be the fast, easy response. However, more often than not, we need to dig deeper by asking more questions to get at the ‘essence’ of the answer.

Too often, we seek ‘the’ definitive answer to a question when, in reality, it leads to more questions and then answers, which prompt even more questions. It almost becomes a self-perpetuating process.

Equally important is exploring ideas. According to research by numerous behavioral scientists, our minds have thousands of thoughts every day. The more we can use our minds to create and play with ideas, the better. By brainstorming and discussing them, we have the ability to create, shape, mold, and adjust ideas to achieve objectives or meet interests.

Most people talk about problem-solving when dealing with a situation. A different approach is generating ideas for solutions. We then have the ability to produce ideas to solve the problems.

Working together, we have the potential to use more minds, eyes, ears, and hands to address a problem or create a solution. These collective talents and collaborative actions can result in better outcomes and more support for them.

Synergy, as defined by American Heritage is “The interaction of two or more agents or forces so that their combined effect is greater than the sum of their individual effects.” In other words, the sum is greater than the individual parts or actions.

When we address questions, create ideas, and collaborate during this process, our combined efforts are much better for us, individually and as a whole.

How can you make a difference in working with others?

Best wishes,

Greg Hansen

Community Education: Changing Lives and Communities, Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

noreply@blogger.com (Greg Hansen) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 17:45:00 +0000

There are moments in each person's life, when something happens and your life is changed forever.

A serendipitous moment occurred for me when I met Larry Horyna, who was teaching an Introduction to Community Education class at the University of Oregon in April 1973. Little did I know that course and Larry (who became a friend and my first mentor) would change my life forever, personally and professionally.

Through taking that class, I became a Community Educator. Why, you may ask? It spoke to my mind, heart, and soul. It made sense that we should work together. It exuded passion about making a difference for individuals, communities, and our world. And, it reinforced how we're inextricably connected as one people on one planet.

The Community Education philosophy focuses on community development and individual improvement. The core tenets are:
• Citizen involvement and engagement;
• Coordination, collaboration, and partnerships of public, private, and non-profit organizations;
• Assess local needs, identify resources (local to global), and link them together;
• Maximum use of all human, physical, and financial resources in a community;
• Lifelong learning; and
• Develop and offer programs and services, based upon assessed community needs, for people of all ages.

Community Education was conceived by Charles Stewart Mott and Frank Manley in the mid-1930’s in Flint, MI. Over the years, it has grown from one community to a global movement. Mr. Mott formed the C.S. Mott Foundation, which has invested significant resources over the last 80+ years to advance Community Education from its humble beginnings in Flint to around the U.S. and many countries worldwide.

Regardless of where you live and what you do, I'd recommend you learn about the Community Education philosophy, principles, and processes espoused by Mr. Mott and Mr. Manley. Community Education was as relevant in the 1930's as it is with the challenges facing individuals, organizations, and communities in the 21st century. Discover how Community Education can help you and your community to pursue and achieve your dreams.

Community Education was embedded into my “DNA”. I’ve been involved from the local to international levels with individuals, organizations, and communities during the last 38 years.

One person with an idea and a willingness to share it with others can change a life, community, country, and/or our world.

Community Education touched and changed my life. Will it yours, too?

Best wishes,

Greg Hansen

P.S. Ironically, I was presented the C.S. Mott Memorial Award Outstanding Community Educator by the Oregon Community Education Association in 1985 for my contributions to organizations, communities, and Oregon.

Life Lesson: Be Open to Feedback to Gain Insights

noreply@blogger.com (Greg Hansen) — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 23:49:00 +0000

On this 1/1/11, as we reflect upon our lives, especially during the past year, while planning for the next 12 months and beyond, sometimes it helps to draw upon feedback and wisdom of others to gain insights and put everything into a clearer perspective.

Here's a true story, which captures a memorable life experience. On 1/15/96 at 12:20 p.m. (noted the date, time, and other details in my organizer because of the significance to me), I received a telephone call from a close friend and mentor, Bill O'Hearn. I'd seen him the day before and shared my vision and excitement about a business I was starting, which I believed had tremendous potential to be successful as well as make a difference globally.

He said, "I need to tell you something. You need to hear it now. I'd prefer telling you in person, but you need to hear it now, so I want you to listen." Bill's a gentle, respectful, and sage soul, so figured that I'd better pay attention even though I was feeling very sure of myself with the new venture. I confidently said, "Okay", and then sat down into my easy chair holding the phone to my ear.

Bill then stated, "Do you remember my second book, From the Heart of a Lion and Other Lessons to Sell By?" I said, "Yes." He then reiterated a lesson about the three phases a sales professional (although they also apply to everybody) goes through in their career, which he'd learned many years ago, and outlined in the book.

He then reminded me "Phase One is 'Unbridled Enthusiasm'." My response was "Oh, yes! That's the juice of life. I love the feeling. It's like you're colt out in a pasture with other horses and no fences. You're frisky, frolicking, and having fun." He commented, "Yes, and that's why we're having this conversation." He continued, "Don't lose your enthusiasm or passion for life, but be careful not to overwhelm people with your zeal." To which, I smugly said, "Okay, so what's the next one?"

Bill reported, "Phase Two is (pausing to clear his throat for affect) 'Complicated Sophistication'. That's when you love to impress people with your competence and confidence. To dazzle them by dropping names and stating facts, figures, data, and opinions." My reaction was "Ouch, I know that one well." To which, Bill said, "That's why we're having this conversation." He continued, "You're at point in life when you don't need to impress people with your intellect, who you know, or what you know." Afterwards, I sheepishly commented, "Do I dare ask what is phase three?" And, his remark, again, was "That's why we're having this conversation!"

"Phase Three," according to Bill, who was speaking calmly and matter-of-factly, "is 'Mature Simplicity'. When someone asks a question or you feel compelled to share something, give one, two, or three bullets and then be quiet. If they ask questions, you can then draw from your vast storehouse of knowledge, broad resources, and extensive network to offer additional information or insights." Upon which, I stated, "Thank you."

Bill's feedback about 'Three Phases' was some of the best advice I've ever received and applied, personally and professionally. While I still occasionally rely on Phases One or Two, my goal is operating in Phase Three whenever appropriate and possible. I'm hopeful his insights will be of some value and use to you.

Best wishes for a great two thousand eleven!

Greg Hansen

P.S. For more than a decade, Bill has written and distributed, Wednesdays With Willie, a free weekly e-mail to thousands of people around the world. In each version, he selects two quotes and then writes a comment about each one. If you'd like to subscribe to them and/or learn more about Bill's four books, too, please e-mail him at bbohearn@cox.net.

Is your organization reacting too slowly, or anticipating ahead of others?

noreply@blogger.com (Greg Hansen) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 16:50:00 +0000

NHL hockey great, Wayne Gretzky, said the key to his athletic success was following his father's advice to "skate where the puck's going, not where it's been."

As you look over the horizon to where your organization wants to "skate", what are the emerging trends, needs, and opportunities to explore, so you're positioned as a market leader, not a "me, too"?
For example, while Social Media is 'hot' now, what's next? What are the implications to your business? How can you prepare yourself to win?

A look back over the last 20 years, for example in the broad areas of information technology and communications, reveals a few of the then 'big' opportunities, among others:

*Email
*World Wide Web
*E-commerce
*Computer telephony integration - personal digital assistants (PDAs)
*Dot.com businesses
*Broadband - fiber optic
*Digital
*Wireless
*Video and multi-media
*Unified communication and collaboration (audio, video, and Web conferencing)
*Sustainability and energy efficiency
*Cloud computing
*Big data
*Social Media
*Local
*Mobile

The question now - what's next? Rather than skating to where the puck has been, is your business anticipating what's next and moving in that direction? How are you gaining and using insights from your target audiences in this strategic process?

As you think about the next 3-24 months, what's most important to your business? Surviving, but actually thriving, in the current economic conditions, locally to globally, requires you understanding your customers and clients' needs and objectives. That is, knowing where they want to go, so they can compete successfully in their marketplace.

It then necessitates you developing, promoting, offering, and delivering them the right products, services, and solutions in the right place, at the right time, for the right price.

Where do your customers and clients want the puck to go? Where is your business skating now? You can anticipate and get there ahead of your competitors and help your customers to win!

To learn more about how GQG can help your organization to succeed, please visit www.gqg-mr.com. We also offer a "coaching" consultation. Please call 503.471.1397 or e-mail, ghansen@gqg-mr.com, to schedule an appointment.

Thanks for reading. Happy skating!

Best wishes,

Greg Hansen