We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mel Lim. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mel below.
Alright, Mel thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s something you believe that most people in your industry (or in general) disagree with?
In a world where biases and preconceived notions often guide our actions, there exists a hidden truth. We are all products of our experiences, beliefs, and the people who surround us. Life has a way of shaping our perspectives, crafting the rules that become our playbook as we journey through it. Our knowledge, accumulated over countless hours, transforms us into veterans, experts in our chosen domains, firmly rooted in our convictions.
Yet, there comes a time when the shackles of our own expertise bind us, when innovation beckons us to step out of the comfort of our well-trodden paths. It is in these moments of reckoning that we must be willing to unlearn, to shed our old skin, and to ask questions that may seem absurd or even silly. Sometimes, the simplest questions hold the keys to unlocking doors to uncharted territories of innovation.
But the answers to these questions rarely reside within the realm of so-called experts. They are hidden in unsuspecting places, in the minds of people who stand at the periphery of our industries, people who are not burdened by the weight of conventional wisdom or the constraints of expertise. What sets these individuals apart is their unwavering curiosity, their eternal optimism, and their unyielding belief in the infinite possibilities that the world holds. They see the world through a lens of discovery, a lens of opportunity, and through this lens, they find hope.
These unassuming individuals are not cynical or judgmental. They don’t wield authority or seek to prove their worth by displaying their clout. They are, in essence, the embodiment of a can-do attitude, a beacon of inspiration for those willing to listen and learn. It’s these people who defy the status quo and inspire innovation, offering new perspectives, new solutions, and new directions.
Strangely, I’ve found that my greatest well of inspiration lies within the innocence of my children, aged 9 and 12. They live in a world where anything is possible because they believe it to be so. They dare to dream, unburdened by the need for approval or the fear of failure. Their spirit resonates with the very essence of innovation, where creativity knows no bounds, and exploration has no constraints. They teach me that innovation waits for no man, that it is a force that knows no age, no expertise, and no preconceived notions. It simply requires a heart open to curiosity, a mind receptive to the unconventional, and a soul unburdened by the weight of biases.
Mel, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Ever since I was five years old, I found myself immersed in a world of imagination, constructing imaginary cities and vibrant landscapes within the confines of old shoeboxes. Dreaming became a portal to worlds that existed only in the recesses of my mind. This early fascination with creation and design eventually led me down a path that felt like destiny.
As I delved into my education, the allure of architecture became undeniable. The precision of math and the boundless possibilities of physics fascinated me in school. It was clear that architecture was my calling, the canvas on which I would paint my dreams.
Fast forward through an amazing career in architecture, where I had the privilege of designing retail spaces, hotels, casinos, and stadiums around the world. Each project was a new opportunity to breathe life into spaces, to shape experiences, and to create environments that resonated with people. But my journey didn’t stop there. I transitioned into the world of product design and technology, and with over 20 years of experience, I established my own award-winning strategy and design consultancy. My clients included global tech companies in cybersecurity, big data, neuroscience, telecommunications, and robotics. It was a journey marked by innovation and creativity, but there was one more chapter yet to be written.
That chapter was the birth of Chateauz™, my own tech startup. Chateauz™ is an extended reality (XR) analytics engine that augments and scales spatial computing experiences. It empowers brands and enterprises to harness XR and spatial computing technology, reimagining their brand experiences to create wonder and awe by placing data science/business intelligence at its core. We are unyieldingly passionate about helping enterprises unlock fresh and innovative ways to engage their teams and customers meaningfully and ethically through this scalable platform.
Chateauz™ addresses three crucial challenges in spatial computing: how to effectively integrate XR technologies into their operations, how to expand their brand experiences, and how to determine the return on investment (ROI). It’s a journey of transformation, from the doodles of my childhood to a venture that paves the way for innovation, redefining how brands and enterprises interact with the world. Chateauz™ is more than a tech startup; it’s a testament to the enduring power of imagination, the love of design, and the endless possibilities of technology.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Throughout my entire career, I’ve staunchly believed that our word is our bond. When I make a promise to deliver, rest assured, I always come through. I’ve never once missed a deadline, and that’s a track record I’m immensely proud of. But it’s not just about unwavering commitment; it’s also about humility and honesty. I never pretend to know something I don’t. In the realm of innovation, the essence lies in our ability to learn, unlearn, and approach problems from fresh and unconventional perspectives.
Venturing into the world of consultancy, where I’ve built my own business, formed my own teams, and cultivated a network of trusted partners, vendors, and like-minded individuals who share our core values of design excellence, integrity, curiosity, imagination, and kindness, has been an incredibly challenging journey. As a leader, those who’ve worked alongside me know that I’d go to great lengths for them. My commitment to my team, my clients, and the quality of our work is unwavering. We uphold exceptionally high standards in how we deliver our services, how we interact with one another, and how we communicate ideas. It’s this unwavering commitment to excellence that has made us extremely selective in choosing our partners, whether they are clients, investors, vendors, or advisors.
Consistently delivering top-tier quality for over two decades, even in the face of economic downturns and the turbulence they bring, is an achievement in which I take immense pride. This journey has equipped us with a resilience that sets us apart, and it’s a testament to the unyielding spirit and dedication that defines our work.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I am a perpetual optimist, always seeking the silver lining in the midst of chaos, transforming challenges into the fuel for innovative endeavors, and unwaveringly recognizing the potential in people. However, life has taught me that unbridled optimism must be tempered with discernment and humility.
As an entrepreneur, one of the greatest challenges lies in identifying and collaborating with exceptional individuals. Ask any of my fellow entrepreneur friends, and they will unanimously agree that the most daunting aspect of building and expanding a business is not the financial risks or market uncertainties, but the arduous task of finding, managing, and retaining truly exceptional talent.
My journey has taken me from the corporate world to running my own businesses, and it has been an invaluable lesson in leadership. I’ve witnessed firsthand the kind of leader I do not want to become, and I’ve had the privilege of working alongside extraordinary leaders who deftly navigate their teams through the most challenging of times.
These experiences have not only reshaped my perspective but have also enlightened me about the intricate balance necessary to champion my team while safeguarding the overall health of the business. This equilibrium demands an unwavering commitment to building a high-performing team, one that is not only proficient but also deeply aligned with our core values—a commitment to what is best for the business, our customers, our teams, and our partners. It requires us to be steadfast in adhering to our strategic priorities and upholding our core values of excellence, integrity, and curiosity. Embracing a culture of learning from our mistakes is paramount, as is our dedication to continuously refining and delivering the best products for our customers.
Moreover, this delicate balance extends to navigating unforeseen challenges, mastering the art of adapting to unexpected curveballs, and discerning when to affirmatively say yes or assertively say no—even when it comes to paying customers. Recognizing the significance of a team of trusted advisors and dedicated teams is pivotal in maintaining this equilibrium. These individuals play a crucial role in providing valuable insights, strategic guidance, and unwavering support as we navigate the complex landscape of entrepreneurship. In essence, building and sustaining such a team is not just a strategic imperative; it is the cornerstone of our resilience and success in the face of uncertainties.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://chateauz.io
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chateauz.io/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mellim.sovereign
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mellim/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/mellimsovereign