One company can copy someone else's strategy, redesign their technology or test its systems. But it can not duplicate the way policies, systems, technologies and processes that are configured to synergistic whole. Competitive advantage results from the powerful unifying focus that brings the main mission of the company and the systems and structures that support the core. Marshall Industries provides excellent study example of how the company has achieved a convincing configuration that goes beyond strategy. Three prototypes effective configuration suggested, pioneer, the seller, and the master (specific firms illustrate these prototypes). Ideally, the configuration demonstrates consistent accents on a mission, therefore, market, support systems that directly related note, in the prioritization of resources, and in directing effort, motivation and influence. But the configuration can be excessive, symptoms of this include too much attention to one narrow purpose and failure to review the assumptions and methods. Good configuration allows periodic reassessment and provides tools for updating and revision. Suggested "Configuration Audit" is offered as a guide for managers. "Hide
by Danny Miller, John O. Whitney Source: Business Horizons 13 pages. Publication Date: May 15, 1999. Prod. #: BH024-PDF- ENG
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