I’ve been thinking about the dynamics of the budding ecosystem that is becoming OpenSky. In every area, there is a vibrant spirit of collaboration. I am inspired.
We are the opposite of the big companies. And when they understand the threat we pose to the status quo, they will try and squelch us. They will say that their commodity goods are as compelling as our special goods. They will try to squeeze our margins and sell goods in an even more dehumanizing way. They will say that they’re real when they aren’t. They will say that anonymous reviews and mathematical algorithms are as effective as a curated Shopkeeper. They will say that manufacturers will never care enough about consumers to work differently. They will say that independent people can never build a global brand. But they will be wrong. Why? Because it is already happening. The future is already happening.
Today, five months after getting started you are creating a shopping experience with real people, for real people. We are approximately 100 dedicated and committed Shopkeepers (and everyday we welcome more). We have Michael Ruhlman and his thoughtful and articulate ideas, Chef John and his passion, Kath Eats and her authenticity, Tina Haupert and her humor….and that is only 4, a small subset of our cooking community. Together we’re unstoppable. Joining us are hundreds of manufacturers, both large and small. They are seeing that the future isn’t to be listed in the depths of a shopping search engine, but to create direct relationships with the people that influence consumers. To develop products that are distinct. To bring their brands to life with our Shopkeepers. And, as Shopkeepers promote, we’re reaching a half a million people a week (up 200% from last week) and we’re now are seeing what happens when consumers join the community, both buying goods and sharing their points-of-view. Working for the ecosystem, our tireless staff of 15, focused on keeping up with all of the collaboration.
Like all ecosystems, we are thriving because we each need and compliment one another.
The Shopkeepers want to drive the best experience for their audiences and make money, manufacturers want to sell and get “influencer endorsements” and relationships, consumers want the best products and services….what’s coming together is perfect goal alignment. Everyone thrives because everyone thrives. That’s both a good system and an open one.
- john caplan
