expressions - Meaning of "to pivot to do something"


I found the use of the verb pivot in a context I can't quite understand:



We will now pivot the company's effort to date and focus on becoming a comprehensive provider of ...



What is the meaning of the verb pivot in this context?



Answer



One specific connotation of the term "pivot" in this sense is that it is not just a "change of direction", but a "sudden, rapid change of direction and focus". Generally it implies that the company is essentially abandoning its previous efforts in order to make a concerted effort towards a new goal. Lessons may be learned from the old project, and parts may be salvaged and repurposed; but the original plan has been cast aside and everyone is working toward a new end.


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