Chapter 39: 38
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It had been two weeks since the grand launch of Tennyson Dynamics' groundbreaking products: the Modular Phone, Tablet, and Smartwatch. The initial reception had been overwhelmingly positive, with pre-orders selling out in record time.
Ben sat at the head of the sleek, oval conference table in the Tennyson Dynamics headquarters, dressed in a casual hoodie and jeans, his usual sharp, focused demeanor in place. Around him, his team—composed of product managers, engineers, marketing leads, and Emily, his trusted assistant—prepared for the meeting.
"Alright, everyone," Ben began, leaning back in his chair. "It's been two weeks since the launch. First of all, amazing job getting us to this point. But now, let's talk about what's next. What's the feedback from customers? What's working, and more importantly, what's not?"
Emily nodded and tapped her tablet. A holographic projection lit up the room, displaying graphs, charts, and customer feedback pulled from social media, emails, and forums.
Emily started the briefing. "The initial response has been phenomenal. Here's what people are saying on social media."
The hologram shifted to display a stream of comments:
"Got my Modular Phone yesterday, and it's a dream come true. Swapped out the battery module in seconds!" "The tablet is so versatile. I used it for a work presentation in the morning and as an art studio in the evening." "Loving the smartwatch! The gesture controls are so intuitive." "Finally, a phone that doesn't make me feel like I'm wasting money on unnecessary upgrades."
Ben smirked, but Emily continued. "While most of the feedback is positive, there are a few recurring complaints."
Emily swiped on her tablet, pulling up a new set of comments:
"I love the phone, but I've been waiting over a week for the camera module to restock." "My smartwatch strap broke, and I can't find a replacement anywhere!" "The tablet is amazing, but why is the stylus always sold out?" "I've been trying to order the gaming module, but the website keeps crashing."
Ben sat up straighter. "Supply chain issues?"
One of the product managers, Alan, spoke up. "Yes, exactly. The demand has far exceeded our projections. We estimated we'd sell around 500,000 units in the first month, but we hit that number in the first week. Our factories are struggling to keep up, especially for the modules."
Another team member, Priya, chimed in. "It's not just production. The website traffic is insane. On launch day, we had over 20 million visitors, and it hasn't dropped much since. Our servers can't handle the load during peak times, causing crashes and delays."
Ben leaned forward, his elbows resting on the table. "Alright, let's fix this. First, let's address the supply chain. Alan, how do we ramp up production?"
Alan nodded. "We've already reached out to our current suppliers, but they're maxed out. We could onboard additional suppliers, but that comes with risks—quality control, delivery delays, and higher costs."
Ben rubbed his chin, thinking. "We can't compromise on quality. What about expanding our own manufacturing capabilities? Long-term, it'll save us money and give us more control."
Emily jumped in. "That's a solid idea, but it'll take time to set up new factories. In the short term, we can prioritize high-demand modules like the camera and gaming modules."
Ben nodded. "Do it. And for the website?"
Priya raised her hand. "We're already working with the IT team to upgrade our servers. But we should also introduce a virtual queue system. Customers get a spot in line and an estimated wait time. It'll reduce frustration and keep the site from crashing."
"Good. Implement it ASAP," Ben said.
Another team member, James, the marketing lead, spoke up. "There's also an opportunity here to engage with our customers. The supply issues are frustrating, sure, but we can turn this into a positive by being transparent. Regular updates on social media, behind-the-scenes videos of our production process—it'll build goodwill."
Ben smiled. "I like that. Let's show people what goes into making these products. And while we're at it, highlight how the modular design reduces waste. Remind people why they chose us in the first place."
Emily added, "We could also host a Q&A session. You answer questions directly from customers. It'll humanize the brand and address concerns head-on."
Ben hesitated for a moment, then grinned. "Fine, but only if I can dodge questions about my personal life. I don't need another viral headline."
The team laughed, remembering how the media had dubbed Ben "The Shoe Thrower" after a certain infamous incident.
As the meeting progressed, more ideas flowed:
A subscription service for priority access to new modules and replacements. Partnering with local repair shops for faster service and support. Creating a loyalty program where customers earn points for purchases and referrals.
Ben listened intently, occasionally offering input or asking pointed questions.
After two hours of discussion, Ben stood up, signaling the end of the meeting.
"Alright, everyone. Great work today. We've got a lot to do, but I know we'll handle it. Let's focus on what we can control, keep the customers informed, and make sure we don't lose the momentum we've built."
After two Months
The office was filled with the subtle hum of modern machinery—state-of-the-art for 2007, though nowhere near the futuristic gadgets Tony Stark would later be known for. Tony sat behind his desk, surrounded by piles of blueprints, reports, and a clunky flat-screen monitor. A glass of scotch rested nearby, untouched for once, as his focus was squarely on the latest financial reports from Stark Industries.
Pepper Potts walked in, holding a folder filled with detailed summaries. "Tony, I've got the numbers from our partnership with Tennyson Dynamics."
Tony looked up, raising an eyebrow. "Ah, the boy wonder strikes again. Lay it on me, Pepper. Are we in the green?"
Pepper sat across from him, handing over the folder. "More than in the green. The supply deal with Tennyson Dynamics for their Modular Phone components has brought in a significant profit margin. It's one of our fastest-growing partnerships."
Tony flipped through the pages, scanning the numbers. "Hmm. Not bad. The kid's definitely got something going on. Modular tech wasn't exactly a secret, but he's managed to turn a theoretical concept into a consumer-ready product. That takes... talent."
Pepper smiled faintly. "Talent and determination. He's only 17, and he's already built a company that's making waves worldwide. People can't stop talking about his phone, his tablet, and that smartwatch. The way they integrate is groundbreaking."
Tony leaned back in his chair, twirling a pen between his fingers. "Sure, it's impressive. But let's not get carried away. He's good at the consumer tech game, no question. But he's not exactly stepping on my toes."
Pepper raised an eyebrow. "You think so?"
Tony shrugged. "Pep, look at the bigger picture. I'm Stark Industries. We're not just building phones and gadgets. We're supplying the military, developing next-gen energy solutions, and pushing the boundaries of aerospace tech. This kid's playing in a different sandbox."
Pepper tilted her head thoughtfully. "Still, you have to admit he's innovative. And ambitious. He's managed to get the media, investors, and customers eating out of his hand. That kind of momentum could lead anywhere."
Tony smirked. "Momentum's one thing. Staying power is another. Sure, he's on top of the world now. But the tech industry moves fast. Trends come and go. One day, you're the hottest thing since sliced bread. The next, you're yesterday's news."
Pepper frowned. "Don't underestimate him, Tony. He's not just selling products—he's building a brand. People see him as a genius, an innovator. And he's smart enough to keep his future projects under wraps, which only adds to the mystique."
Tony nodded, conceding the point. "True. The mystery angle works. It's got people buzzing. But it also makes them paranoid. Ever notice how every interview he gives is full of vague hints and no real details? It's like he's playing a game of 'Guess What I'll Do Next.'"
Pepper chuckled. "And it's working. People can't stop speculating. Some think he's a visionary. Others think he's hiding something. Either way, he's keeping himself in the headlines."
Tony tapped the folder on his desk. "And keeping our wallets fat in the process. I'll give him credit—he knows how to play the PR game. But let's not forget who's running the real show. Stark Industries dominates the military and energy sectors. That's not changing anytime soon."
Pepper sighed, leaning forward. "You sound awfully confident for someone who keeps asking for updates on his progress."
Tony grinned. "Hey, just because I'm not worried doesn't mean I'm not curious. The kid's got potential. I'll keep an eye on him. But right now? He's not a threat. He's a headline—a shiny, new headline that'll eventually fade."
Pepper stood, giving him a knowing look. "You know, Tony, underestimating people has a way of backfiring. Maybe instead of dismissing him, you should start thinking about where this partnership could go next."
Tony raised his glass in a mock toast. "Duly noted, Miss Potts. Duly noted."
As Pepper left the room, Tony leaned back in his chair, staring at the folder. His expression shifted slightly—equal parts curiosity and amusement.