Business Strategy by identifying the things NOT to do
Paradoxically, great art lies in what the painter chooses to leave out as much
as what he decides to put in. Similarly, the art of business strategy
is not just about deciding what you are going to do;
just as important is deciding what you are not
going to do. Having a 'must not do' list is as important as your
'to do' list.
In an article in Harvard Business Review, Susan Bishop wrote:
"Today, saying no is our growth strategy. That is, our growth strategy
is saying no to the wrong kind of clients - those who take us away
from a business model based on our mission, values and areas of
expertise".
And of course it is impossible to know to whom to say no, which projects to decline,
and which customers not to deal with, if the
enterprise is not clear about its mission, values and areas of
expertise (core competencies)
- see Business Strategy and Core Competencies.
"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is to try to please everyone."
Bill Cosby. Actor (and multimillionaire)
The talk turns to Bill Gates. Chan says Gates's business model works because he had
the self-discipline not to diversify. "He can resist temptation, that's why he is
so great. I think that's what I should learn from him."
Timothy Chan. China's second richest man. (Guardian. 08 November 2004)
"The art of leadership is saying no, not yes. It is very easy to say yes."
- Tony Blair
Note: This web page is not intended to provide comprehensive coverage of the subject, merely a brief introduction to provoke thought and to lead to a more in depth understanding and application of the topic, either through further reading - or from me as your management consultant, executive trainer or personal coach in a consultancy project, training course, workshop or seminar.
References and Further Reading
Bishop, Susan. 'The Strategic Power of Saying No'
Harvard Business Review. November - December 1999.