What financial companies could learn (but won’t) from the toy business.

Even if you’re dealing with a moving target, keep the public informed.

As the toy crisis unfolded, the industry had to keep a number of plates spinning, isolating which factories were causing headaches while communicating with the public. It’s a tough balance for busy executives, but the toy industry largely managed it, holding regular press briefings and creating specific consumer Web sites and hot lines. On the other hand, have you heard from your bank or broker lately?

“Small” things can still ruin your reputation.

A few speckles of lead paint? A couple of bad loans? No big deal in the grand scheme. But what if it’s your child who swallows the tainted magnet or if it’s your house that has no security behind its supposed securitization?