Pavel Datsyuk’s “Thoughts” on Stealth-Mode Business Strategy

Clients often ask the question of whether or not certain product features should be shared with the general public for fear of people copying them or defending against their tactics.

My usual response includes a quote from Eric Ries, author of The Lean Startup:

“A head start is rarely large enough to matter, and time spent in stealth mode-away from customers-is unlikely to provide a head start. The only way to win is to learn faster than anyone else.”

Sure, Pavel Datsyuk’s getting paid quite healthily to put these clips together for Reebok but just being willing to put this type of thing together shows a confidence in his ability to develop new shootout moves to add to his arsenal. Trying to keep these hidden and trying them only when no one’s watching would keep him focused on this one set. Instead, he’s letting everyone see and basically forcing himself to, as Eric Ries would suggest, learn faster than everyone else.

You can be sure he’ll have more to show this year and next. So should you and your business.