Apple, a renowned technology company, has been considered one of the most successful in the industry. One of its founders, Steve Jobs, is attributed with creating a problem-solving and innovation method that has proven successful over the years.
According to an ABC report, Jobs followed a three-step process which included stepping back to look at the big picture, focusing on essential components, and disconnecting to allow for reflection and creative thinking. When faced with a block, taking a break was recommended as a way to recharge and come back with fresh ideas.
Harvard University has acknowledged the effectiveness of these methods, particularly emphasizing the use of the ‘first principle’. This technique, dating back to Aristotle’s time, involves focusing solely on the essential aspects of a problem and discarding anything superfluous. Apple utilized this approach when developing groundbreaking products like the Macintosh, iPod, iPhone, AirPods, and Vision Pro.
For example, when faced with challenges in the market such as the Walkman and Discman, Apple revolutionized the concept of portable music players with the iPod. Similarly, during the rise of mobile phones, the company introduced the smartphone with the iconic iPhone. Even with products like AirPods and Vision Pro, Apple continues to innovate by addressing specific needs and improving upon existing technologies.