WHEN TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT IT’S TIME TO THROW-IN THE TOWEL? In the world of high-technology where continued innovation and fast product turn-over are the norms -- how do you identify the tell-tell signs that it's too late to get to the next level and acknowledge that it's time to fold?

1. WHEN TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT IT’S TIME TO THROW-IN THE TOWEL?
In the world of high-technology where continued innovation and fast product turn-over are the norms -- how do you
identify the tell-tell signs that it's too late to get to the next level and acknowledge that it's time to fold?
I've seen the tell-tell signs, afterall I've been in this business for over 30 years. Those private companies and start-ups
I've supported have mostly recovered -- two of them (SaaS Solutions) even made very successful exits with over $0.5B in
investor and stakeholder gains. Another one was acquired by a billion dollar public company at a great price. You know
why --- they acknowledged the fact that organic and personal investments alone are NOT enough to sustain the business
operational objectives and growth opportunities on-hand. They realized that they need to let go of control, looked at
the bigger picture and partnered with VC investors. They understood that the share of the pie for control will become
smaller, but the share of rewards in $$$ is much higher and achievable. And most importantly – they invested in highly-
skilled marketing and business development executives, implemented the needed business system infrastructure,
networked with industry leaders and went all out in rebranding the company. Long story short – they have spent money
to make money!
When a private technology business (less than 20 years old) with a great solution who neglected to brand and market
it's offering to the 21st century marketing best practices, struggling year-after-year and missing revenue targets,
ignoring VC funding, doesn’t believe in social media, and continues to operate the same way year-after-year, but
expecting different results -- do you still think there's a chance???
I'd like to hear your thoughts!
Virginia C. Dori
President and Founder
CMO-on-Demand Consulting