In the book of Exodus the Lord gives Moses very detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle and the clothing for Aaron to wear when ministering before the Lord. The handiwork required was extraordinary as outlined in scriptures and indicated that Moses was to give the work to skilled people. However, the Lord also told Moses “So Bezalel, Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the LORD has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the LORD has commanded." (Exodus 36:1, NIV) Part of my takeaway from this scripture was that natural skill was not enough to complete the work; the Lord specifically gave the skill and ability needed to complete the complex project.

Recently I was talking with a contractor who said at times managing the behavior of subcontractors on the job was challenging.  For example some would toss cigarette butts on the ground and play loud music with vulgar lyrics. Many times customers complained. 

At times I like to believe that more effort, more resources or more push will obtain faster and better results. Sometimes this is true; other times not so much. For example, I’ve learned that putting a small amount of toothpaste on my toothbrush obtains the same result as spreading toothpaste that lops over the edges. Also, some people use too much soap in the dishwasher. This is actually one reason they break down as extra soap scum gums up the works.

Recode recently ran an article about how Walmart was engaging in aggressive tactics to more effectively compete with Amazon prices both in the store and on Internet. (http://bit.ly/2nA1Fhh  ).While price is not always the only way to get customers, low prices are effective. When you go to buy gasoline and see three gas stations posting prices, and one is three cents lower; which location snags most of the cars.

I have written in previous blogs about how many tasks are becoming automated and having a profound effect in the workplace and society. Last fall the Washington Post published an article about how many political races were reported using automated technology (http://wapo.st/2pIO47B  ). The article is worth reading. In summary, it reports than an algorithm has been created to generate stories from Internet content and produce it in written form. An editor or writer may easily add analysis. A program like this, while in its infancy, eliminates the need for low-level research assistants and basic writers.  It means that automation is affecting an area where you think it wouldn't have any influence.  A key principle to keep in mind is that in business if something can be automated, it likely will.