Does size matter?

by Mark Prisk MP - Tuesday, 22nd April 2008 -

In his second blog from Silicon Valley, Shadow Minister for Business and Enterprise Mark Prisk talks about his trip to software giant Oracle – and why big corporates can still have the entrepreneurial touch.

Monday 22 April, 15:00

Just finished a fascinating morning at the vast campus of Oracle, who have been perfect hosts to the mission today.

Senior VP Ken Jacobs kicked off by talking about his small startup business – he wasn't being modest, he has actually started up his own venture under Oracle's aegis. How is it that small and big rub along?

I think its partly that those who make it big do so really quickly and so can still relate to what starting up really means. They haven't forgotten and they haven't become too important to reach back and help.

It's a really healthy environment for start ups and what a contrast to the rigid, hierarchical ways of some big corporates.

Of course, this open and collaborative business model should not be confused with being a soft touch. Doing business here is very serious and often quite aggressive.

But there's a lesson here for us politicians and policy makers: It isn't the size of your business, it's the scale of your ambition.

I'll keep you posted.

Keep your eye on Real Business over the next few days to read more about Mark Prisk's Web Mission.

Photography: Elsie esq

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