The Bloomberg terminal's breakthrough was not simply displaying data, but integrating the tools needed to analyze and act on it. It was built around the user's entire workflow—calculating, graphing, and messaging—which existing data screens completely ignored.
Bloomberg's entry into politics was not driven by ambition, but by frustration. He was annoyed by the consensus that New York's declining education system couldn't be fixed. His belief that he could solve a problem others had given up on was the primary catalyst for his campaign.
Bloomberg initially built its own computers because PCs didn't exist. Once commercial PCs became available, they immediately abandoned their hardware to focus on their unique value: data and software. This shows a ruthless focus on core competencies and an ability to pivot away from sunk costs.