In these days of Web2.0 Wild West they'll just do what it takes, won't they.

Well, at least they are using (SSL) protection ;)

Innovation is a broad and abused term, but I think it is fair to say that one thing is certain about any process that can be deemed innovative: you can't foresee the end of the road. The finale is a moving target by definition.

And this leaves you with a problem:

How can you move towards a moving target in a predictable/manageable way? How can you make sure that every step brings you closer to an unknown place?
How can you make sure your investment is never lost?

Solving this inherent contradiction is one of the keys to being an effective innovator.

And the answer is actually very simple: Improve your ability to move!

Work on the derivative as well. Take three steps forward, and then think about what you just did and how you could move faster next time.

75% walk. 25% Meta-walk.
Me, I'm probably 50/50.

• Document everything behind you.
  
• Look for patterns.
  
• Generalize and refactor.
  
• Make things well the first time ( even if it takes you longer ).
  
• Work on your toolset, extend your reach.
  
• If you are building software, build a platform ( to build your solution on top ).
• Remove the overhead in everything you can.

Become a meta-walker and you'll always be closer to the goal, even if you don't know where it is.
And if the journey ends abruptly, nothing will be lost. You will be closer to everywhere.

If I were a billionaire adventurer who has traveled around the world in a balloon and set several world records, I would like to die in such a way that I become a myth.

George Mallory kind of myth.

But, what if I had a heart attack?
Or I slipped while bathing?

( if you get it, you get it )

I get this question often. So I'll answer it here officially.
I am currently based in a small, tiny town named Santiago, capital of Chile.

This is a panoramic view of where my office-hut is located:

The green patch to the right is actually a small barn where we keep our horses, although it is designed to look like a golf court.