Fridtjof Nansen is the Norwegian explorer and humanitarian that inspired our name. But for us, it’s more than just a name.
Each week, we’re highlighting one thing we learnt about his life that we’ve applied to our business. These are the things that make Nansen special.
“Significant results are often born from simple means”
“The difficult is what takes a little time. The impossible is what takes a little longer.” — Fridtjof Nansen
Nansen was a man that, despite being seen as a hero by many, kept his feet firmly on the ground. He was seen as a practical man and did not attempt to mystify people with complex theories. He just wanted to do great things, and his ways of thinking were as straightforward as they were innovative.
The successful crossing of Greenland is attributed to many things, but of the most important being his attention to detail of simple but crucial factors. After careful analysis of previous failed attempts at the crossing, he made modifications to equipment, making tents lighter, devised food products that were highly nutritious, and improved skis and footwear.
It has been said that the modifications in equipment were the difference between the success and the failure of the expedition. It was an accumulation of small changes that resulted in a totally different outcome.
The best way to innovate is to focus on the details and look at how we can improve what we already take for granted.
We know that trying to impress through “genius” processes and strategies doesn’t pay off. So we stay totally transparent in everything we do, and break down projects so that no details slip through the net.
Next week: why compassion is the most valuable resource, even in business
Nansen is a full-service global digital agency. For us it’s never only about technology or concepts. It’s all about building what’s needed to make your business better.
Image credit: http://www.frammuseum.no
