Wednesday's Wall St. Journal front page had quite a contrast. Next to an article about how GM is struggling, there was a glowing profile about how Toyota is using their technology to develop new innovative products for the aging population.
“Toyota has a long tradition of applying core technology to diverse fields, dating back to 1937 when founder Sakichi Toyoda spun the car-making business out of his loom manufacturing operation. Ever since, Toyota engineers have tried to be equally resourceful, translating their expertise to areas ranging from communications to bioengineering.”
It's an interesting reminder, I think, to the general public that doesn't study Toyota that the company didn't start as a car company. It's quite a different history than General Motors. Also, thinking back to this year, Toyota sure gets treated more positively in the business press. It's not completely undeserved, considering Toyota's business success and growth, now being poised to overtake GM for #1 in global auto production. GM's problems can't be blamed on bad PR, nor could they be fixed by positive PR.
It just goes to show what kind of research and forward-looking projects that Toyota is able to work on, given their success and profits. GM is stuck looking in the “woe is me” rear view mirror, their better times being in the past.
What do you think? Please scroll down (or click) to post a comment. Or please share the post with your thoughts on LinkedIn – and follow me or connect with me there.
Did you like this post? Make sure you don't miss a post or podcast — Subscribe to get notified about posts via email daily or weekly.
Check out my latest book, The Mistakes That Make Us: Cultivating a Culture of Learning and Innovation:
Coincidentally we just blogged on Toyota’s foray into the pre-fab housing market… something to keep an eye on.
http://www.evolvingexcellence.com/blog/2005/12/are_houses_next.html
Best,
Kevin