New Leader Focus Area — Competitive Position

Per earlier posts (here. here, and here), I’ve been thinking about what goes into taking over a new organization.  This post takes a look at competitive analysis via benchmarking.  Benchmarking is always useful, though I’m always wary of getting too hung up on one’s competitors.  I don’t have any particular comment on the eight questions from the HBR New Leader article, but you might want to look at the strategy outline on the QuickMBA site (here):

• How do you and your competitors compare in terms of returns on assets and relative market share?
• How are the leaders making money, and what is their approach?
• What is the full potential of your business position?
• How big is your market?
• Which parts are growing fastest?
• Where are you gaining or losing share?
• What capabilities are creating a competitive advantage for you?
• Which ones need to be strengthened or acquired?

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