Welcome to DeBrief

Debrief is the bi-monthly newsletter from the Deloitte Institute, highlighting the research and activities that we support in the fields of innovation and entrepreneurship.

The tyranny of the MVP

You can see why some entrepreneurs love the minimum viable product (MVP): it gives great feedback on – and shows whether there’s much demand for – their product or service. But is it the definitive tool for budding business owners, or just another managerial device that can undermine someone’s venture when used incorrectly? Jeff Skinner explores the MVP’s pros and cons and whether entrepreneurs should put their faith in it.

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The ambidextrous leader: when to step in and how to step back

What’s best; dictatorial top-down leadership or empowering from the bottom-up? You’re asking the wrong question. Organisations need leaders to be both strong and benevolent. The challenge is how to strike the right balance. Julian Birkinshaw takes you on a whistle-stop tour of what it takes to be an ambidextrous leader.

Spend! Spend! Why some firms welcome economic uncertainty

We know what uncertainty looks like. Losing US$2 trillion in value on the global stock markets 48 hours after the EU referendum proves that. And most companies cut their spending in times of crises, right? Well, that’s not strictly true, according to Raja Patnaik. He looks at the effects of uncertainty caused by adverse weather to show that uncertainty sometimes increases investment.

How to get ahead in Africa

Poor transport, partial property rights, inefficient legal systems. All ‘conventional’ reasons for patchy development in Africa. But what’s really going on? Elias Papaioannou and Stelios Michalopoulos question whether investment in sound institutions is really the answer to the continent’s woes.

Revealing the 2016 Real Innovation Awards shortlist

Contrary to popular belief, innovation is far messier and more time consuming than people believe. But nothing beats the feeling of achievement when turning great ideas into reality. The inaugural Real Innovation Awards celebrate the creative thinkers behind breakthrough products, services and experiences. See who was shortlisted and how to vote for your favourite businesses and entrepreneurs.

Upcoming events

TELL Series:
Watch out for events in October with Zia Chishti from Afiniti and Nigel Newton from Bloomsbury Publishing Plc.

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