How did the lack of unity within RIM affect its growth and stability?

A startup can avoid the mistakes made by RIM by focusing on a few key areas. First, maintain a clear focus on the core business and avoid distractions. RIM's leaders were distracted by pursuits outside of the company, which sent the wrong message to stakeholders. Second, ensure unity and alignment within the leadership team. Lack of unity at RIM contributed to its downfall. Third, have a strategic plan that is adaptable to changing market conditions. RIM's inability to adapt to the rise of smartphones was a major factor in its decline. Lastly, manage relationships and patents effectively. RIM's fall was partly due to issues in these areas.

RIM faced several obstacles when trying to compete with new competitors. One of the main challenges was the distraction of its leaders who were engaged in activities outside of the company. This sent the wrong message to investors, employees, and other stakeholders. To overcome these challenges, RIM's leaders needed to refocus on the company's core business and develop a strategic plan that could effectively compete with new entrants in the market. However, the distractions, such as the pursuit of owning an NHL franchise, proved to be a significant obstacle in their path.