This argument is very similar to that about the 'value' of modern art. We traditionally place all the value on the amount of effort that goes directly into producing the item, and discount any of the other effort involved in making it a success.
Perhaps the cliche `success = perspiration + inspiration` needs to be updated to include `marketing`.
maybe it needs to be more generic than 'marketing'.
Sometimes its about making the right connections and getting distribution right. Sometimes its about creating barriers to entry that are not via the core product itself.
Yeah, I wasn't happy with my choice of word, but couldn't think of anything else. I guess the key point is that if you pour 100% of your effort directly into development of the product then there's a good chance you'll fail.
Perhaps the cliche `success = perspiration + inspiration` needs to be updated to include `marketing`.