A dramatic paradigm shift has taken place, and inventors who don't understand and adapt will be left behind like last Christmas' toys. Just as companies and retailers are re-inventing themselves, we inventors must do likewise or risk perishing. The skill sets required to succeed today involve much more than technical talents.
Manufacturers are no longer dependent upon the same kinds of products.
Witness the explosion of licensing, interactive media and new technologies. Business models have changed. Wal-Mart sells more toys than Toys R Us. There are uncertain executive hierarchies. Hasbro and Mattel, once toymakers, are global entertainment conglomerates.