What Makes Companies Thrive?
April 1, 2007 Oft-cited sources of competitive advantage have little or no impact on consistent, organic growth. That was a key finding revealed in “The Road to Organic Growth: How Great Companies Consistently Grow Marketshare from Within,” by Edward Hess. Hess’s research revealed that successful organizations do not necessarily need: 1. The most talented people. 2. Unique products or services. 3. Control of a unique supply of raw materials or a unique distribution channel. 4. Sophisticated or diversified strategies. 5. A unique business model or major innovations. 6. The lowest labor costs. 7. To be global competitors. 8. To outsource or head off-shore. 9. Managers with MBAs. 10. A visionary or charismatic CEO. 11. To be located near talent, raw materials, or customers. Successful businesses, however, do need: • Entrepreneurial employees who are engaged, focused, emotionally invested, and committed to excellence. • Good products, great customer service, and great execution. • Simple b
