On first hearing the idea of using Other Peoples Resources (OPR), it may seem a little exploitative or unethical to some people but when you examine it closely it's really not. It is simply a great example of 'the principle of fair exchange' at work. You are trading something you have (e.g. money) for something another person has (e.g. time/skill etc) and both parties agree to it up front, seeing it as mutually beneficial or "win-win" as they say. However, using OPR goes way beyond simply trading time for money. Other People's Resources can also include any combination of any of the following: skills, contacts, minds, talents, technology, systems, environments etc.
Using OPR to Build a Business
Strategic use of Other Peoples Resources (OPR) is one of the quickest and easiest ways to fast-track the development of a business; create wealth and hit the "big time." Huge multinationals such as MacDonalds and Dominos Pizza grew through a shared ownership, franchisor-franchisee business model. Dell Computers etc. have grown their entire "direct sales" global businesses through the use of OPR, this time you the buyer make up the OPR element; you essentially use your own resources (internet, time etc) to buy a Dell computer. However, OPR isn't exclusive the domain of big business.
Other People's Resources (OPR) is particularly useful in the start-up phase of a new business venture. Chances are that either you don't have the capital yourself or haven't raised the capital this early in the business but yet you still need the business to develop. Since entrepreneurs are often victims of their 'can-do' attitude, their biggest failing is learning to let other people do the 'can-do' bit. The solution is creative use of Other People's Resources. Whilst big business normally wants to own and control its own resources; small business only needs to use and control other people's resources. Ownership is not necessary. The less you own, the more you