W07 New Business Model & Lean Start-Up

This week's study focus was on New Business Model and Lean Start-Up. 
Two of the main ideas that I took away from this weeks topics were, one, design thinking and the lean start up method for developing businesses and/or products go hand in hand. Two, that you've got to have a consistent plan model to help you track progress and set goals. 
The New Business Model has proven valuable in doing just that. A visual chart documents existing business ideas and programs and efforts while aiding new ideas and expansion. This weeks activity of filling in a business model engaged my mind in two ways. First, being a visual learner, I was better able to take in the needful parts of the company, Obesity Action Coalition, I was learning from, and Second, I was better able to see the Obesity Action Coalition company's creativity, innovation, and impact. 
Sharpening my business skills is helpful in aiding me in helping others just as when in flying, and in a critical moment a mask drops down, to place it on myself first so that then I have the oxygen I need to assist others. Three skills taught in this course that I feel are among the most important are, one, having a clear mission statement that helps you focus on the social change you wish to bring. Two, planning in a concreate way so that you can visualize and network effectively, and third, to tract and analyze your impact as well as your weaknesses. 
This week I submitted a narrated PowerPoint presentation on the non-profit Make-A-Wish. Their social innovation is providing strength and hope to their targeted group-- children with critical illnesses.  A fulfilled wish gives a critically ill kid the strength to fight against their illness and encouragement in achieving the impossible. The company witnesses uplifted spirits and transformation in the lives of these critically ill children, their families, and entire communities. The organization unites neighbors, friends, and entire communities in life-changing experiences.  

The material this week stated that, "Social entrepreneurs … see opportunities where other people see hopeless failures. They see potential where other people see tragic consequences. They see a future that others can’t even begin to imagine". 

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