Walking through two-hundred and fifty exhibits was an exercise of patience and fortitude. We were looking to meet with vendors who had a specific solution and technical ability ready for-sale. First, there were not many examples that had any relationship to what we were looking for. Second, most were focused on a totally different part of banking and financial services. Third, those that did have reference to the area of banking that we were looking for had no specific knowledge of the specialized area. Quotes included the following:
“While we do not do that today it is on our immediate road-map.”
“We offer a totally integrated solution (words tumbling from the man with a title of ‘Holistic Management’) and thank you for listening.”
“Our modules today are flexible and can be configured to meet your needs.” (Yes, however what specifically do you have today?)
“We have this great solution (totally unrelated area). We believe our expertise will provide the necessary foundation for meeting you specific needs.”
“We support the full range of activities. How does the area you are interested in fit in with this range?”
It was as if they needed a “yes” no matter how inappropriate, bizarre, or poor fitting the “solution” was.
Finally we came across a first business that I would love to be in business with. When they listened to our inquiry their first response was to probe and then introduce us to their expert. With an apology he asked us to repeat our question so that he was clear. A single moment of clarity followed.
“We have a module that fits the description of what you say you are looking for. Given you question and the expertise you are looking for I can tell you that our product will not meet you needs.”
Thank-you!
Searching for God often follows the same process; asking “a moron to quote a proverb is like putting a scalpel in the hands of a drunk.” (Proverbs 26.9) Be careful where you look. Evaluate what you hear, read, see. God is always clear, usually blindingly so.
