Frozen in place

How we consume music and what movies have dramatically changed in my lifetime. Going to the video store or movie theater on a Friday night was part of the weekend experience. Today, you and I are more likely to stream what we want to watch.

Every time I hear Blockbuster, Kodak, or Rawleigh’s story, I often ask why the leaders chose to stay with their current model vs. adapt and grow. Each of these companies had innovators from within pushing their leaders to adapt and change. Yet, the decision to remain the same set their demise in motion.

A neighborhood or city that adapts and thrives over the long run is neither frozen in time or chaotic. They are both. Every community needs enough change for survival. Enough change to adapt while not losing the very identity and strengths of a place.

The pace of change today is challenging both high growth and distressed neighborhoods and cities. Both have to decide whether to adapt to this pace of change or remain the same.

Our neighborhoods and cities are complex. Place developers help you create the conditions for your flywheel of sustainable and equitable growth. If you choose to fight or exit, then you have decided to remain frozen in place. Choose the transformative place development route, and you will likely achieve the strong sense of community and vibrant marketplace you are trying to make.