Concept in Definition ABC

The word pivot or pivot has one meaning or another depending on the context in which it is used. There are three areas in which it can be used: in relation to mechanics, in certain sports team and in the world business.

In the world of mechanics

Some gadgets or machines work with fixed articulation systems that allow a structure to move or rotate with independence. For this to be possible, a fixed point or axis that acts as a support or pivot is necessary. Thus, the pivot is what allows a machine to be oriented towards a place.

This structure has different modalities (there are mechanical and hydraulic pivots and there are also pivot joints of the bone system, for example in human knees).

In some team sports

In most team sports, each player has a specific function depending on his physical and technical qualities. The figure of the pivot or pivot has a relevant role in basketball and handball.

In basketball, the role of the pivot is normally exercised by a player of great stature. This characteristic allows him to be useful both in defense and attack and always close to the rim. When he is defending the pivot can block the rivals' shots or block their positions and when he attacks the greater height of him allows him to pick up the rebounds more easily.

In handball, the pivot is also a tall player with great physical strength. Its main function is to unlock the defense of the opposing team in order to create spaces so that other players on your team can shoot the ball to the opponent's goal with more ease.

In other team sports, such as rugby or volleyball, the figure of the pivot does not exist.

Pivot in business strategy

When something rotates on an axis, the action of pivoting occurs. However, in business terminology the verb pivota is used in a very particular sense. We talk about the ability to pivot of a company to refer to a certain quality: adaptation to changes and new trends. In this way, a company pivots when adapting with agility and speed to the processes of change that occur around them.

Therefore, the idea of ​​pivoting is equivalent to change and implies a turn in the strategy initial with the purpose of seeking a greater cost effectiveness (For example, pivoting a company can be based on a radical change in the politics prices or alter the initial business model).

Photos: Fotolia - nenetus / nd3000