Strategy in Action! An Inquiry into the Practice of Strategic Thinking

The true nature of strategy and strategic thinking remains elusive. Is strategy the domain of analysts and planners or is there more to it than simply applying a rational mindset? Perhaps strategy formulation is more of a creative experience, the stuff of inventors and dreamers? This research examines the theoretical foundations of corporate strategy development. The evolution of modern strategic theory is traced from the early days of strategic planning to more current theories such as core competencies and the resource-based view of sustainable competitive advantage. More importantly, the researcher documents the work of a team of senior executives as they endeavor to develop a new corporate strategy. Faced with a commoditized marketplace and intense competition, the executive team turns to a new strategic approach for help. The recounting of their efforts provides fascinating and surprising insights into the strategic mind as it seeks to create sustainable competitive advantage.