There once was a little business that wanted to provide a service.  It was a great little business.  It researched and hired experts.  It acquired capital.  It opened its doors.

The little business grew quickly.  It built a little army of managers and administrators.  Its capital grew.

The little business succeeded.  In a short time it had grown to breathtaking proportions.  It was a multimillion dollar business.  It cornered the market.

Reveling in its success, the little business threw itself a conference.  A man came from the White House to speak at the conference.  He congratulated the little business and advised it, “Be efficient.  Be effective.  Listen to your customers.”  The little business patted itself on the back for a conference well done.

But then the little business was caught off guard.  Its customers revolted and set up a competing business.  You see, the little business never once listened to its customers.

The little business was indignant.  “Your business isn’t part of OUR business plan!” it insisted.  But the little business’ indignation went unheeded.  “We didn’t write your business plan,” replied the customers.  They liked their business better.

How long do you think a business could last if it never listened to its customers?