The leaders of big companies are generally paid a great deal, and for that money, it is their job to make inspired and tough decisions to change fortunes.
They also have to take the wrap when things go very wrong too.
Some decisions are controversial, and some lead to disaster.
But in some cases, these huge moves lead to great success
These moves often stirred controversy but ultimately transformed industries and delivered extraordinary results.
Here are ten such examples of bold decision-making.
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Apple: Saying Goodbye to the Headphone Jack
In 2016, Apple shocked consumers by removing the headphone jack from its iPhones.
Critics slammed the move for being inconvenient and greedy. it accused the company of forcing users to buy additional accessories.
However, Apple’s gamble paid off.
The decision accelerated the adoption of wireless audio technology and paved the way for AirPods, a product line that now generates billions in revenue annually.
Netflix: DVDs to Streaming
When Netflix transitioned from DVD rentals to streaming in 2007, many believed the company was abandoning its core business.
Early on, the decision led to a decline in subscribers and fierce criticism from customers.
Yet, Netflix’s foresight in embracing streaming positioned it as a trailblazer in on-demand entertainment. Today, Netflix boasts over 200 million subscribers and continues to dominate the global streaming market.
Read the full story here.
Ford: Dropping Sedans
Ford took a significant risk in 2018 by discontinuing almost all of its sedan models to concentrate on trucks and SUVs.
While the decision alienated fans of its smaller cars, it aligned perfectly with consumer trends toward larger vehicles. The strategy enabled Ford to boost profits and solidify its standing in an increasingly competitive auto market.
Tesla: Sharing Patents
In 2014, Tesla made its electric vehicle patents open-source, allowing competitors to use its technology without fear of legal repercussions. Many viewed the decision as counterintuitive, fearing it would weaken Tesla’s competitive edge.
Instead, it spurred the growth of the EV industry, indirectly strengthening Tesla’s position as a leader in the space.
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Harley-Davidson: Trademarking Engine Sound
In the 1990s, Harley-Davidson attempted to trademark the iconic rumble of its V-twin engines. While the legal effort was ultimately unsuccessful, it solidified the company’s identity.
Harley’s pursuit of the trademark reinforced its commitment to preserving its brand image, deepening customer loyalty and bolstering its cultural status as a symbol of rebellion and individuality.
Amazon: Keeping Zappos Independent
After acquiring Zappos for $1.2 billion in 2009, Amazon made the unusual decision to let the online shoe retailer operate independently.
Unlike most acquisitions, which involve significant integration, Amazon allowed Zappos to maintain its unique culture.
This hands-off approach enabled Zappos to thrive while contributing to Amazon’s growth, proving that sometimes, restraint is the boldest move of all.
Disney: Betting Big on Marvel and Pixar
Disney’s acquisitions of Marvel in 2009 and Pixar in 2006 were seen as risky at the time due to their high costs.
However, these bold investments paid off immensely. Marvel Studios became a juggernaut, creating a cinematic universe that has grossed billions, while Pixar continued to deliver critically acclaimed, box-office-dominating animated films.
These deals cemented Disney’s dominance in global entertainment.
Microsoft: Embracing Open Source
For years, Microsoft was famously resistant to open-source software. Under CEO Satya Nadella, however, the company made a complete turnaround, embracing the open-source community and acquiring GitHub for $7.5 billion.
This decision enhanced Microsoft’s cloud offerings and earned the trust of developers worldwide, ensuring the company’s relevance in a rapidly changing tech landscape.
PepsiCo: A Health-Conscious Pivot with SodaStream
PepsiCo raised a few eyebrows when it acquired SodaStream, a company known for its DIY soda machines.
The move seemed at odds with PepsiCo’s sugary beverage empire, but it addressed growing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable options.
The acquisition diversified PepsiCo’s offerings and positioned it for long-term growth in the evolving beverage market.
IBM: Transforming into a Cloud and AI Leader
IBM made a bold decision to divest its hardware divisions and focus on cloud computing and artificial intelligence.
This shift alienated traditionalists who associated the company with hardware innovation. However, the move ensured IBM’s survival and relevance in a tech world increasingly dominated by software and digital solutions.
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How Boldness Redefines Success
These decisions demonstrate that great rewards often come from great risks. While the backlash to such moves can be immediate and intense, the companies that made them had the vision and courage to persevere.
Their willingness to disrupt their own industries led to groundbreaking success—and valuable lessons for anyone in business.
