Values Quotes – Thomas Edison on Utility

Today’s quote is from Thomas Edison, the famous American inventor and businessman.

An insightful quote from Edison was:
“Anything that won’t sell, I won’t want to invent. Its sale is proof of utility, and utility is success.”

Wouldn’t it be great if more inventors followed this advice?

As a differentiating value, Utility means being of practical use or service; or usefulness.

Today, the utility of Edison’s inventions is obvious. From the light bulb, to the phonograph, to the motion picture camera, Edison’s inventions have had a profound effect on the whole world.

But it can be difficult to determine the utility of something before it is known or accepted by future users.

How did Edison know the movie industry would become so big? Did he have special insight into the importance that the light bulb would have on the entire world?

No.

But Edison clearly understood the value of utility. He had a deep understanding of basic human needs, which led him to see if an idea would be of practical use to others.

And that’s where many people fall flat with their ideas and inventions.

There’s a useful saying today: “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” If you can’t see the practical use that will benefit others, then you are wasting your time.

The first sign that you’re on the road to success is ensuring the existence of utility.

 

Today’s value was selected from the “Pragmatism-Prudence” category, based on the e-book Developing Your Differentiating Values.