The University of Tulsa hosted a thought-provoking session featuring local attorney and entrepreneur Zack Lindsey as part of its Cyber Fellows guest speaker series. Lindsey, who co-founded the tech company Efflux, specializes in asset intelligence. His presentation focused on the importance of identifying the purpose of a product in society, emphasizing how this understanding can enhance its relevance and impact.
Lindsey’s insights centered around a concept he refers to as “problem-first thinking.” This approach encourages innovators to prioritize the societal challenges their products aim to address. By doing so, they can create technologies that not only fulfill market needs but also contribute positively to communities.
Understanding Product Relevance
During the talk, which took place on October 10, 2023, Lindsey outlined several key strategies for entrepreneurs and technologists. He stressed the necessity of asking the right questions about a product’s purpose. This involves considering who will benefit from the technology and how it can be tailored to serve those needs effectively.
Lindsey also shared his experiences at Efflux, where the focus on asset intelligence has led to innovative solutions in managing and optimizing valuable resources. He explained how such a framework can guide entrepreneurs in making informed decisions that resonate with both consumers and societal goals.
The audience, consisting of students, faculty, and industry professionals, engaged actively with Lindsey’s ideas. Many expressed a desire to apply the “what” approach in their own projects, seeking to ensure that their innovations are not only commercially viable but also socially responsible.
Impact on Future Innovators
The Cyber Fellows speaker series aims to inspire the next generation of leaders in technology and cybersecurity. By featuring prominent figures like Lindsey, the program provides students with valuable insights into the intersection of technology, ethics, and societal impact.
Lindsey’s focus on purpose-driven innovation aligns with broader trends in the tech industry, where there is an increasing demand for solutions that address pressing global issues. His talk was a reminder that success in technology is not solely defined by financial metrics but also by the positive changes products can facilitate in society.
The University of Tulsa continues to play a significant role in shaping future innovators, equipping them with the mindset and skills needed to tackle complex challenges. As the Cyber Fellows series progresses, it remains committed to fostering discussions that challenge traditional business paradigms and encourage a more holistic view of technology’s role in society.
