I have to experience the Nokia products. I'm a major contributor to the design and the quality of the devices. I have a lot of feedback to provide the teams on that. But also I have to carry competitive devices. You have to understand the competition.

Stephen Elop’s quote, "I have to experience the Nokia products. I'm a major contributor to the design and the quality of the devices," reflects his hands-on approach as a leader and his direct involvement in shaping the products at Nokia. Elop emphasizes the importance of experiencing the products firsthand, understanding both the design and quality of the devices to offer valuable input. As a key figure in the company, his role goes beyond overseeing; he actively contributes to refining the devices that Nokia produces.

The second part of the quote, "I have a lot of feedback to provide the teams on that," highlights Elop’s leadership style, which involves providing constructive feedback to the design and development teams. His deep understanding of the products allows him to offer informed suggestions that can improve design and quality, ensuring the company stays competitive in the fast-evolving technology market.

However, Elop also acknowledges the importance of competition in the tech industry: "But also I have to carry competitive devices. You have to understand the competition." This part of the quote reveals a strategic mindset, where he recognizes the need to stay informed about rival products in order to understand industry trends and identify areas where Nokia can improve. By using competitive devices, Elop ensures he has a comprehensive view of the market, which informs his decisions on how to make Nokia's products more competitive.

Originating from Elop’s time as the CEO of Nokia, this quote illustrates his pragmatic approach to leadership in the highly competitive mobile industry. Elop was known for his focus on improving Nokia's products and bringing a more customer-focused approach to the company’s strategies. His quote reveals the balance between internal innovation and external market awareness, which he considered crucial for success in the tech world.