Week 12 Reading Reflection

1) What was the biggest surprise for you in the reading? In other words, what did you read that stood out the most as different from your expectations? 

The sheer size and amount of time and planning that goes into a new venture. Obviously starting a new venture can't be easy and there needs to be some planning, but just by looking at the charts and everything that needs to be mapped out it is clear that the dedication and time that goes into a new venture is incredible. 

2) Identify at least one part of the reading that was confusing to you.

Nothing seemed to be confusing other than how it was determined what would be included on each stage. Otherwise, everything seemed relatively straight forward.

3) If you were able to ask two questions to the author, what would you ask? Why?

Why is marketing activities considered a part of the second stage? Given that the venture hasn't established capital yet, marketing should be pushed to the third stage.

How can a new firm anticipate the surge of growth and prepare for it? The reading states that the growth stage is sometimes the hardest to overcome for some firms as they can't handle the sudden surge of growth.

4) Was there anything you think the author was wrong about? Where do you disagree with what she or he said? How?

I feel that the second stage, start-up activities, needs to be re-evaluated. I don't think that a new venture should be worried about marketing activities so soon if they don't already have the capital needed to sustain the business. Marketing activities needs to be put into the third stage after capital and an effective team is established.