The Czech Republic is one of the most proudly and clearly independent countries and cultures in the world. The 10.5 million residents have suffered from limited historical buffers from the German and Russian Empires. Of course, last century both decided to forcefully manage the affairs of the Czech (and Slovak) people, and it was only with the fall of the Iron Curtin and the subsequent Velvet Revolution and divorce (peaceful and positive split of Czechoslovakia in two the Czech and Slovak Republics) in 1992/93 that stable long term independence was a real outcome for Czech.
In 2015, Czech has overcome this past to be a benchmark of independence in Europe despite the ongoing political and economic disruption. Not only has the magnificent city of Prague been able to avoid destruction either culturally or architecturally, the language of Czech is dominant in the country. Travel through it and the street signs are in Czech. Proudly, there is no concession to German, Russian or English, it is virtually all in Czech except in the most tourist based centres of Prague.
This for me is such a strong indicator of a strong proud culture. There is a lot to admire about a country who is prepared to lay the country on the line and find a differentiated culture amongst aggressive neighbors (more economically, than military in 2015).
Capture Point
Without stretching the analogy too far, organisations can take inspiration. There is hope for those companies, particularly mid-sized ones, who are being crunched from all sides as Digital Innovation takes hold. There is always an opportunity to find a niche, and to act as a bridge between organisations, processes and outcomes. Just as the Amish still find a small niche in the US and the Czech Republic has carved out a niche in the crowded European market, organisations that have a strong desire and culture will find their niche in the new economic landscape.
If you require further information, please contact Phil Hassey, Founder capioIT. capioIT is an advisory firm focused on helping organisations to understand emerging technology as the world becomes Digital. Phil may be contacted by email below,
