The PoloTech delivery was a beautiful example of the SIX Pillars of Business Framework

How the PoloTech Program delivery inspired me to formalize the SIX Pillars of Business Framework

Remember when Ralph Lauren resurfaced the old brand Polo Sports back in 2015? Behind this monumental endeavour was a groundbreaking product called the PoloTech Shirt, developed by the innovative minds at OMsignal, a startup from Montreal, Quebec. As the Head of Business Development at OMsignal during that time, I had the privilege of spearheading the program delivery of this revolutionary product for its official launch at the 2015 U.S. Open. This journey not only showcased the power of collaboration but also laid the foundation for what I would articulate as the SIX Pillars of business framework and the ask-4-growth methodology.

At its core, the success story of PoloTech exemplifies the synergy of talent, product, marketing, systems, processes, and finance—the very essence of the SIX Pillars of business framework.

Talent: Bringing together a diverse group of individuals from various disciplines including smart textile, software, hardware, App development, data science, marketing, sales, and customer care was instrumental in the development and delivery of PoloTech. Each member of the team brought unique skills and expertise, contributing to the success of the program.

Product: The PoloTech Shirt wasn't just a piece of clothing; it was a marvel of technology. Integrating advanced sensors and algorithms, the shirt provided real-time biometric data to users, revolutionizing the way athletes monitored their performance. The meticulous attention to detail in product development ensured that PoloTech exceeded expectations in both functionality and design.

Marketing: Launching a groundbreaking product like PoloTech required an equally innovative marketing strategy. Leveraging Ralph Lauren's brand reputation and the novelty of wearable technology, the marketing team crafted compelling narratives that resonated with consumers. From strategic partnerships to experiential marketing campaigns, every aspect of the marketing plan was meticulously executed to build anticipation and drive sales.

Systems: Behind the scenes, robust systems and infrastructure were essential to support the development, manufacturing, and distribution of PoloTech. From supply chain management to logistics, implementing efficient systems ensured seamless operations at every stage of the process. This emphasis on systems optimization facilitated scalability and agility, enabling rapid response to market demands.

Processes: Effective processes are the backbone of any successful venture. HBR says: '60%-90% of companies fail to execute their strategies'. From ideation to execution, clear processes were established to streamline workflow and maximize efficiency. Regular communication channels, milestone tracking, and quality control measures were implemented to keep the project on track and deliverables on schedule.

Finance: Securing adequate funding and managing financial resources are critical components of any business venture. The successful launch of PoloTech was made possible by prudent financial planning and resource allocation. From initial investment to revenue projections, financial viability was carefully assessed, ensuring a sustainable path to profitability.

The delivery of PoloTech also exemplified SIX:A1's Ask-4-Growth Methodology—an approach focused on fostering collaboration, innovation, and accountability across all facets of business operations. Using deep interrogation and diagnosis to ensure alignment between talent, product, marketing, systems, processes, and finance, the Ask-4-Growth Methodology is part of a system that empowers teams to achieve transformative results and drive sustainable growth.

In conclusion, the journey of bringing PoloTech to market not only showcased the power of collaboration and innovation but also inspired me to layout the foundation for the SIX Pillars of Business Framework and the Ask-4-Growth Methodology. By embracing these principles, businesses can unlock their full potential, driving success in an ever-evolving marketplace. As we continue to navigate the complexities of the business landscape, let us remember the lessons learned from PoloTech—a testament to the power of teamwork, ingenuity, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

We can connect on LinkedIn if you'd like!

Or you can visit the SIX:A1 Blog!

Or even Sign Up to get access to the Replay of a MasterClass - Growth Engine, a great collaboration with Partner - Scott Overbeck !