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From Idea to Reality: Lessons from 20 Years as an Entrepreneur

5 min read

With over two decades in the technology industry, I've learned that the path from idea to reality is rarely straight. My journey began as an administrator for DIPS at Helsenett Øst, and has since taken me through payment solutions, cybersecurity and now AI development at MediVox.

The Three Most Important Lessons

1. Embrace Uncertainty

Business plans rarely survive contact with reality unchanged. The most successful entrepreneurs are those who can pivot quickly, learn from failures, and see opportunities in unexpected situations.

Over the years, I have founded over eight companies, and each one has taught me something new about flexibility and adaptability.

2. Build Relationships, Not Just Products

Technology is important, but people are more important. The best projects I've been involved in have been characterized by strong teams and trusting partnerships.

At MediVox, it's not just about building AI solutions – it's about understanding healthcare professionals' needs and building tools that actually help them in their daily work.

3. Solve Real Problems

It's easy to get caught up in the latest technology trends. But real value creation happens when we focus on concrete problems that affect real people.

In the healthcare sector, we see this clearly: AI that can save doctors hours of documentation means more time with patients.

"A good idea without action is worthless. Mediocre action on a good idea beats perfect planning every time."

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Start now. Don't wait for the perfect circumstances, the perfect business plan, or the perfect funding. Begin with what you have, learn along the way, and adjust your course as you gain more insight.

Entrepreneurship isn't about having all the answers upfront. It's about being willing to find them along the way.

Håkon Berntsen

About the Author

Håkon Berntsen is a Systems Architect at MediVox AS with over 20 years of experience in IT development, systems architecture and artificial intelligence. He is also Chairman of Open Info and an expert in AI agents and autonomous systems.