So many times I speak about using differentiated thinking to solve major issues.  I was intrigued by the current real life example of how The Washington Post, a renowned, 80 year old newspaper institution, came to the decision that the right strategic move to save their organization was the sale of the Post to Jeff Bezos, co-founder of Amazon.com.  Some key factors in play, as they relate to the formula for Differentiation:

Dominance:  Although the newspaper industry has clearly transformed, the Washington Post is still provides immense value and influence in Washington DC and beyond.  Could you imagine a political season without the Post editorials?  Me either.

Distinction: To make his case, Washington Post CEO Donald Graham leveraged his long-term personal relationship with Jeff and other stakeholders to help facilitate the mechanics of the buyout.

Deed:  Donald did not just sit on his laurels with the company-saving idea.  He put a realistic financing plan together and got the right people on board to see the implementation through to successful conclusion, thus saving the company  and many jobs for his staff.

Read more of this real-life case study.

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