This works well running a grocery chain, but not so well designing the new iPhone.

You'll end up with Windows Mobile.

True but only one company makes the new iPhone, many companies design enterprise software that need a simple workflow and a solid working database with reliable uptime.

And we know nothign about those companies because they're not on HN.

We suspect that they probably have restrictive workplace policies, helpdesk in India and office politics. Those things OP won't like.

Even in cutting-edge businesses, big ideas need to be tempered by the discipline to see them through.

In my experience, mediocre workers are not solid and reliable. It seems strange to string those three terms together.