Sun Tzu- The Art of War



Sun Tzu- The Art of War

Introduction

Sun Tzu's 'The Art of War' is a world renowned text on the strategies, tactics, precautions and techniques of war. The text can be interpreted to the business world very affectively and can serve as a guide book to those seeking to grow their businesses and become market leaders in their respective field. This paper provides chapter summaries and how they can be linked to the business world.

Strategic Assessments

In the first chapter, Sun Tzu discusses the importance of having knowledge of one's environment. This knowledge is critical in times of war and can affect the outcome of battle. Knowledge of the environment also includes knowing your strengths and weakness, along with that of your opponent. These same assessments need to be made when considered from a business perspective. In the business world, this knowledge can be attained by SWOT analyses.

Doing Battle

The second chapter details the necessary tactics for battle. Sun Tzu emphasizes the fact that battles should not be prolonged, risking exhaustion of resources and forces. If preparation is adequate, victors can be determined in a short period of time. In the management world, once the SWOT analysis is completed, the organization becomes aware whether or not the endeavor is worth the time and effort. If it is worth the resources, and if preparation is adequate, organizations should not face hardship in cementing their position in the market.

Planning a Siege

In the following chapter, the author explains steps required for competing and taking over. Sun Tzu says that victories are not meaningful unless the opposition is rendered helpless. For organizations, this means that unless they wish to succeed, they should irradiate competition. Only then will your organization be recognized as a market leader. Bickering or competing with small businesses will not help your cause. Business leaders must go after the big fish, or market leaders. Once they are overturned, there is no one that will deny your superiority.

Formation

The fourth chapter speaks of forming an army. The author explains that if the opposition becomes aware of an army's structure or internal working, the opposition will surely take advantage of this information and all your tactics for competition will become worthless. For this reason, organizations must safeguard not only their trade secrets but also their organizational structure and working. Similarly, unless your structure is fully understood by everyone in your organization, the structure's purpose is not fulfilled and strategies cannot be implemented in markets and the services provided to consumers. It can also be beneficial if an organization can learn business models, structure and strategies implemented by their competition. This can then be used against them. Precautions must be taken when assessing the information regarding other organizations. Like you, other organizations will also be safeguarding their information.

Force

Next, Sun Tzu speaks of domination using force. Domination can directly reflect your market share, profits and revenues. It should be one of the top priorities of every ...