Often start-up companies will come up with an idea that hits it big but not where they were going at all. My favorite example is that 3M was trying to find a super-strong adhesive when they accidentally discovered a super weak one. No one knew what to do with the stuff so it sat on a shelf for years before a scientist at 3M was singing in the church choir and wanted a way to keep the bookmarks for songs in place. Post-it notes was born; arguably one of the most successful products in 3M history.
More recently a researcher was looking into ways to stimulate the brain portions that says “I’m full” to treat obesity. He discovered instead a method to trigger memory that may be a new treatment for Alzheimer’s.
Leave a Reply