Category: Charts & Graphs

Five Forces by Michael Porter — Fundamentals Through Graphics

Five Forces of Competition The five forces of competition concept is one of the most influential in modern business.  It was developed by Michael Porter of the Harvard Business School.  Like all good frameworks, it takes something complicated and provides a simple, shorthand method to… Continue reading

Kissing a Lot of Frogs: Smaller Companies Must Work to Find Investment Financing

Competitive advantages can both increase and decrease as a business gets larger.  One thing that gets easier for larger companies is attracting business investment and financing.  The chart below from John Paglia at the Pepperdine Business School demonstrates the shortage in capital and investment sources… Continue reading

Rich vs King? Spoils Go To Business Owners Who Delegate & Share

As is often said around Silicon Valley, “Would you rather be rich or be king?”  I think the rich vs king question is too crass and is aimed narrowly at convincing a founder to bring in senior management to manage a growing enterprise. However, I… Continue reading

Chart of Most Profitable Industries — Increase Your Odds of Business Success

Profitability Differences Building a business is a lot of work.  Thus, it makes sense to build your business in an industry where the fundamental dynamics are a little more in your favor.  Or, evolve your business to improve its fundamental characteristics by studying the best.… Continue reading

Economies of Scale — Fundamentals Through Graphics

The Experience Curve Revisiting fundamental business concepts is helpful.  Old concepts often have new meaning when viewed after new experiences.  Or, as we say at the school where I am a co-owner, “See it with today’s eyes and hear it with today’s ears.” One important,… Continue reading