In the vast expanse of the business universe, there are as many paths to success as there are stars in the sky. For Pixel Dreams, one of our guiding stars is an unlikely influence. It is the profound depths and inspiring visions of Star Trek. This article unpacks the unique ways Star Trek has inspired the ethos and operations at Pixel Dreams.
The Accidental Discovery
It began simply enough. Our Founder CEO Khalid watched a lot of Star Trek during his formative years between the 80s and 90s. He didn’t think much about it after adolescence. Fast forward to the summer of 2009. During an immersive marathon of Western-pop-culture-classics Khalid introduced to Lannie, his immigrant future partner in life and business, they began watching Star Trek: The Next Generation together. Khalid quickly came to realize so much of his mindset and practice had been shaped by the vision and ideology of Star Trek. Today, the central Star Trek themes of leadership, ethical decision-making, and mutual trust resonated deeply, influencing the ethos at Pixel Dreams.
A Starfleet-Inspired Business Model
For PD, Star Trek is a navigation system for how high-performing teams win. Employees are encouraged to watch specific episodes, reflecting on and writing about the show’s relevance to their work life. Remarkably, Pixel Dreams has even extended this practice to its clients, offering discounts to those who engage with selected Star Trek episodes, so it is rumoured.
Beyond Utopian Visions
Contrary to the popular perception of Star Trek as a vision of a utopian future, Pixel Dreams emphasizes its reflection of current societal challenges, and the lessons we can gain. The series, through its interstellar encounters, mirrors our earthly struggles. The show promotes a deep understanding of teamwork, respect, and the value of ideological conflict and debate between friends and teammates. These themes are integral to Pixel Dreams’ ethos, where Star Trek serves as one of many training grounds for professional development.
Episodic Wisdom
No single episode stands as the definitive guide to life at Pixel Dreams. Instead, the series’ diverse range of stories parallels the company’s multifaceted nature. A notable scene featuring Lieutenant Worf and Data, temporarily serving as Captain, exemplifies essential business principles. It demonstrates chain of command and adherence to protocols while giving space for a team member’s perspectives. We see how a good leader addresses a problem immediately, affords his subordinate the opportunity to ask questions, gives clarity, and through it all keeps the mission as the top priority.
Star Trek’s Unique Business Insights
For Pixel Dreams, Star Trek offers unparalleled insights into life at home and at work. Its non-dystopian sci-fi narrative, a rarity in the genre, reflects Gene Roddenberry’s vision of a mature humanity free from petty conflicts and grievances, focusing instead on exploring the soul, mind, and space. No other pop culture franchise communicates the value of true teamwork as defined by Patrick Lencioni, the matter of core values as Jim Collins illuminates, or the importance of purpose the way Simon Sinek writes about. No other show deals with such subject matters in such a measured, wholesome, and honest way.
Legacy and Lineage
While more recent Star Trek series don’t fit this paradigm, the legacy that began with classic Star Trek in 1966 and extends through The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, and Voyager remains pivotal. The Original Series, set against the backdrop of the Cold War and civil unrest across the country, was revolutionary in its diverse casting and optimistic outlook. From the first portrayal of a multicultural bridge crew to catalyzing technological advancements, these series continue to foster progress and spark creativity long after leaving the airwaves.
The Original Series Bridge Crew Boldly Going
From left to right:
- The events of Pearl Harbor was still strong in the American psyche, we have Sulu, a Japanese bridge pilot.
- The Cold War between global superpopwers USSR and USA was heating up, we have boy genius, Chekov, a Russian, at the helm.
- Giving voice to women and those fighting against segregation, we have Uhura, a strong, black, Communications Officer.
- Fighting against xenophobia in change in times, we have the brilliant mind of Spock, half-Human-half-Vulcan.
- And finally, lest we forget, the charismatic Captain Kirk, played by a Canadian Jew.
A Trek to Success
At Pixel Dreams, the journey through the Star Trek universe is more than entertainment; it’s a star chart for business excellence, teamwork, and personal growth. As we continue on this voyage, we invite our team and community to explore the final frontier, where business development and human excellence meet in a galaxy of endless possibilities.
