Strategy is the navigation of an organization with the goal to keep it relevant in a rapidly shifting, unpredictable environment. The engine of strategy in innovation, and the fuel for innovation is creativity.  Humor is one of the most important manifestations of creativity.  This is the reason that more and more companies are embracing a culture that encourages laughter and fun.

Next week I will be in the Dominican Republic with an important mission. On the invitation of the country’s Vice-President, I will be attending meetings with her, presenting to a large audience, hosting a workshop, and doing a string of media appearances. The goal of my visit is to empower a new generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders in the country, especially women.

Political views aside, one thing very noticeable about Donald Trump is that he always seems angry.  He is not one for easy smiles, let alone laughs. Instead, he sports a permanent frown, ready with a sharp critique at any moment.

Did you know that the overwhelming share of the business that quick service restaurants generate is drive-thru (approx. 80%)? Yet there are numerous pain points throughout the drive-thru customer experience.  McDonald’s is therefore exploring a whole new approach.

In his book ‘Sapiens’, historian Yuval Noah Harari presents a thought-provoking exploration of our species and its evolution through a combination of biological and cultural perspectives.  One of the observations he makes along the way resonates strongly with a key Slingshot premise.