Design thinking is an iterative approach that aims to solve complex problems in a creative and user-centred way by combining empathy for the user, inventiveness and experimental testing.
A decacorn refers to a startup company that has reached a valuation of over 10 billion US dollars, symbolising a rare and remarkable achievement in the startup landscape.
Lead time refers to the time that elapses between the order being placed and the final delivery of a product or service. It includes all steps along the value chain - from procurement to production to delivery. Short lead times improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.
The profitability index (PI) is an economic indicator that shows the relationship between the capital value of an investment and the costs incurred. A value greater than 1 indicates that an investment is economically viable. The PI helps to objectively compare different projects - especially when resources are limited.
The Employee Value Proposition (EVP) describes a company's overall promise to its employees - i.e. the mix of remuneration, development opportunities, corporate culture, meaningfulness and benefits. A strong EVP helps to attract, motivate and retain talent in the long term by clearly communicating what employees can expect.
Laggards are the last group in the diffusion model of innovations. They adopt new products or technologies very late - often due to scepticism, a lack of benefits or limited access to information. They typically make up around 16 % of the total population. Laggards are difficult for companies to reach, but are important for full market penetration.
A turnaround refers to the successful reversal of an economically critical situation in a company. The aim is to return to profitability through targeted measures such as cost reduction, restructuring or repositioning. Turnaround strategies require quick decisions, clear analyses and consistent implementation.
Shared value describes a corporate concept in which economic success and social benefit are created simultaneously. Companies develop strategies, products or business models that address social or environmental challenges while also strengthening their own competitiveness. This creates added value for everyone involved - the company, society and the environment.
Agile methodology is an iterative approach to project management and product development based on flexibility, collaboration and continuous improvement. Originating in software development, agile focusses on short development cycles (sprints), regular feedback and close customer involvement. Popular frameworks such as Scrum or Kanban are part of the agile methodology. The aim is to react more quickly to changes and deliver better results.