39 - This is Big Lesson We Can Learn from Kodak
Learn how Kodak’s journey from market dominance to bankruptcy and eventual resurgence offers powerful lessons on adaptability and innovation. Discover why obsolescence can lead to transformation in the latest episode of Pattern Cognition.
This Is the Big Lesson We Can Learn from Kodak
In today’s episode of Pattern Cognition, we dive into one of the most fascinating stories of business resilience: the rise, fall, and resurgence of Kodak. Known as a photography giant, Kodak’s decline in the face of digital disruption became a cautionary tale for businesses around the world. But what many don’t realize is that Kodak’s story didn’t end in 2012 when it filed for bankruptcy—it transitioned, reinventing itself in pharmaceuticals and 3D printing.
The lesson here is profound: obsolescence doesn’t have to mark the end; it can signal a new beginning. Kodak’s ability to pivot teaches us the importance of adaptability, foresight, and willingness to embrace change—even when it’s uncomfortable.
This episode unpacks the key takeaways from Kodak’s journey:
1. Dominance Can Breed Complacency: Success often leads to stagnation if companies fail to anticipate or adapt to disruptive forces.
2. Innovation Is a Lifeline: Kodak’s move into pharmaceuticals and 3D printing showcases the power of leveraging core competencies in new ways.
3. Transformation Requires Bold Decisions: Reinvention is possible, but it demands courage, strategic vision, and a readiness to let go of past identities.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or creative professional, this story serves as a reminder that setbacks can be stepping stones toward reinvention.
Tune in to explore Kodak’s journey and how its lessons can inspire you to embrace transformation in your own endeavors.
Highlights:
00:00 The Rise and Fall of Kodak
00:11 Kodak's Bankruptcy and Disruption
00:17 Kodak's Resurgence in New Industries
Links:
Website: https://www.sidmofya.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sidmofya/
Transcript:
There's some big lessons that we can learn from Kodak, the company that was dominant and then went obsolete and now has a resurgence. So you recall that Kodak was the leader in the photography business. They were disrupted by digital photography and filed for bankruptcy in 2012. What a lot of people don't know is that Kodak has made a resurgence as a pharmaceuticals and 3D printing company in recent years.
So obsolescence doesn't necessarily mean the end could be transition.