How can engineers engineer big turnaround stories?

In the automotive industry, there was a car model that was not selling well due to poor fuel efficiency and outdated design. The engineers redesigned the engine for better fuel economy and gave the car a modern, sleek look. They also improved the safety features. As a result, the car's sales increased significantly. In a similar way, in a software startup that was on the verge of shutting down because of bugs and a bad user interface, the engineers fixed the bugs, made the interface more user - friendly, and managed to attract new customers, leading to a big turnaround.

Another example is Netflix. Initially, it was a DVD - by - mail rental service. However, as the digital streaming trend emerged, Netflix made a huge turnaround. It shifted its focus to online streaming, invested in creating original content like 'Stranger Things' and 'House of Cards'. This move made it a global entertainment giant, leaving behind its traditional DVD - rental model.

Citigroup also had a significant turnaround. It faced serious issues during the financial turmoil. It started by divesting non - core assets. It then worked on restructuring its operations, enhancing its compliance systems, and rebuilding customer trust. Over time, it was able to turn its fortunes around and become a more stable financial institution again. For example, by streamlining its global operations, it could reduce inefficiencies and allocate resources more effectively.

Visionary leadership is a key element. In Apple's case, Steve Jobs had a clear vision of creating user - friendly and innovative products. Another important aspect is adaptability. Netflix adapted to the changing technological landscape from DVDs to streaming. And for Starbucks, product innovation like new coffee blends and drinks played a crucial role.

One horror story could be when a train engineer suddenly sees a large object on the tracks at night. There's no time to fully stop, and the train just plows through it. Turns out it was a big fallen tree branch that could have derailed the train. Another is when the brakes start malfunctioning while the train is going at high speed. The engineer has to quickly think of alternative ways to slow down, like using the emergency brakes and hoping for the best.

Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) had a major turnaround story. After getting into deep trouble during the financial crisis, it was bailed out by the government. To turn around, RBS had to sell off many of its non - essential assets. It also had to restructure its entire business model. This included downsizing in some areas and focusing on its core retail and commercial banking operations. RBS also worked hard on improving its corporate governance and risk assessment processes. It took years of painstaking efforts, but it gradually got back on track. In the process, it had to deal with public perception issues as well, which it tried to address through transparency and better communication with stakeholders.

Merck is also a good case. It had some setbacks with drug development failures. But then it had a major success with drugs like Keytruda. This immunotherapy drug became a huge hit in the cancer treatment market. Merck's investment in research for Keytruda and its subsequent marketing and distribution strategies led to a significant turnaround in its business fortunes.

Well, it might refer to a big pharma firm that was on the verge of failure. Maybe it had some failed drug trials in the past which led to financial losses. But then, through strategic mergers and acquisitions, it got access to new technologies or drugs in development. It could also be that they re - focused their research efforts on emerging health trends, like personalized medicine, and that led to their turnaround.

The CEO might have achieved the turnaround by focusing on customer experience. For example, improving in - store service, making sure employees are well - trained to assist customers. Also, by optimizing the product mix, stocking more popular and high - demand items. And perhaps by enhancing the online shopping experience to compete with e - commerce giants.

In fantasy novels, engineers are often depicted as ingenious creators. They might be the ones building elaborate magical contraptions or devising complex mechanical systems within a fantastical world. For example, in some novels, an engineer could create a flying machine using a combination of magic and mechanics. They are usually seen as having a deep understanding of the rules of the fictional world, whether it's about how magic can power machinery or how to manipulate rare materials.