Drawing Inspiration from Past Innovations
In 1956, Malcolm McLean, a visionary entrepreneur from California, introduced the standard shipping container—a seemingly straightforward invention that turned out to be one of the most consequential innovations of all time. McLean’s invention facilitated the efficient loading of cargo into uniform containers, which were standardized in size and design. These containers could then be easily transported, loaded onto ships using uniform machinery, and delivered across the globe. This breakthrough dramatically slashed the cost of global goods transportation.
However, McLean’s visionary approach extended beyond the invention itself. He made the patents for his creation available through a royalty-free lease, enabling shipbuilders, port operators, and logistics companies to manufacture boats, trucks, equipment, and tools that seamlessly aligned with these standardized containers. As more stakeholders adopted these containers, global logistics operations became more efficient and economical.
Analogously, geolocation tech companies today grapple with the challenge of handling non-standard location data and integrating it into their systems. They are akin to shipping non-standard cargo to non-standard ports and must meticulously analyze each piece of data, discern its destination, storage requirements, manipulation methods, and sharing mechanisms—all while ensuring compatibility within their systems.
