What Is Strategy?

Michael Porter

Operational effectiveness is necessary, but alone does not ensure superior performance. It is too easy to imitate. Truly exceptional performance requires a well-thought-out strategy.

The essence of strategy is choosing a unique and valuable position rooted in systems of activities that are much more difficult to copy. Porter’s discussion of corporate strategy suggests ideas that can be applied more broadly.

This article can be purchased directly from the Harvard Business Review.

Purchase Article »