Markkula replied that lasting companies know how to reinvent themselves. Hewlett-Packard had done that repeatedly; it started as an instrument company, then became a calculator company, then a computer company. Apple has been sidelined by Microsoft in the PC business, Markkula said. You've got to reinvent the company to do some other thing, like other consumer products or devices. You've got
Markkula emphasized that successful companies are adept at reinventing themselves over time. He cited Hewlett-Packard as an example, noting its evolution from an instrument company to a calculator and computer manufacturer. This adaptability has been key to its longevity in the market.
He also pointed out Apple's struggles in the personal computer sector, particularly with Microsoft as a significant competitor. To thrive, he suggested that companies must explore new product lines beyond their initial offerings, focusing on consumer products and other devices.
