Minimalism
in entrepreneurship is a non-conformist approach that advocates greatness
(rather than bigness) in business as a value-enhancer.
But
what exactly is minimalism?
The concept has its genesis in the world of art.
Minimalism
in art is an idea (extremely non-conformist and abstract one to say the least!)
that art (such as paintings, sculpture, lighting) should have its own reality
and not be an imitation of something else.
Minimalist
Art uses hard or clear edges, repeating shapes and contours, repeating blocks
of limited color choices.
What
you see is what you see - The minimalist artists wanted to create art that
referred only to itself, allowing the viewer an immediate, purely visual
response. The personal, gestural elements were stripped away with the aim to
reveal the objective, visual elements of art.
In the
world of business and commerce, there are virtues that the minimalist approach offers.
Let’s consider a few parallels from minimalist art
Ø Clear, hard edges – enterprises that define in
simplistic (unambiguous) terms to their stakeholders – be they customers,
investors, or regulators - the dimensions of their operations and offerings
stand to benefit long-term from stakeholder confidence.
Ø Repetitive contours and colors – often business
partners and employees need periodic reassurances that standard operating
practices and policies continue to govern in transacting value.
Ø What you see is what you see – for entrepreneurs
this translates into a core value proposition. What is promised in a
value-exchange or transaction is what will actually be delivered! All superfluous
and ambiguous elements are continuously stripped off.
Several
principles underscore a minimalist approach to entrepreneurship. Often the
difficulties encountered in practicing such principles dissuade many from being
minimalistic. The principles include
ü start being a minimalist and then learn to sustain
being one even as you grow;
ü running a tight ship always; and
ü owning the business without allowing it to own you.
