THE ROLE OF COMPETITIVE STRATEGY FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

Introduction

Gaining a competitive advantage is essential for a firm to thrive in its industry

Firms can choose between cost leadership, differentiation or focus strategies based

on their strengths, weaknesses and the external environment

Competitive strategy involves making decisions related to responding to competitor

moves, innovation, and determining the right economies of scale

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Business Level Strategy - Porter's Differentiation

Focuses on distinguishing a firm's products or services from competitors in ways that

appeal to customers

Can involve customizing products/services, enhancing quality, or providing superior

service, features, durability etc.

Appeals to a broad customer base who value the unique features and perceived

benefits

Enables premium pricing for the differentiated offering

Ways to Implement a Differentiation Strategy

Continuously analyze changing customer preferences, tastes and demands

Innovate on course curriculum delivery methods - e.g. blended learning, flipped

classrooms

Ensure course offerings teach in-demand skills like data analytics, entrepreneurship,

critical thinking

Invest in state-of-the-art technology enabled teaching methods

Align offerings closely to desired skills and competencies sought by employers

Actively promote unique value propositions to stand out

Foster a culture of innovation and creativity for differentiation

Continuously monitor the competition to avoid complacency

Corporate Level Strategy - Ansoff Matrix

Provides a framework to identify growth opportunities through market penetration,

product development, market development or diversification

Market penetration focuses on selling more of existing products to current market

segments

This can be done by improving marketing, promotion, distribution, pricing etc.

Results in increased market share as customers buy more of existing offerings

Product development introduces new products for existing markets

Market development brings current offerings to new geographical segments,

demographics etc.

Diversification invests in developing new products for entirely new markets

Options depend on costs, resources, capabilities, core competencies

Using the Ansoff Matrix

Allows systematic analysis of multiple strategic growth options

Can penetrate existing student recruitment channels more deeply

Or seek to develop new regional/overseas student markets with customized offerings

Assess opportunities to introduce new graduate/post-graduate level programs

Ensure growth strategies are aligned with organizational strengths and capabilities

for success

Diversification into new offerings and markets carries higher risk

Alternative View - McKinsey 7S Model

Assesses internal strategic alignment between key organizational elements

Strategy - What is the long-term vision and direction?

Structure - How is the firm organized? Reporting lines?

Systems - What are the processes, IT systems, controls?

Shared Values - What are the core values, culture and norms?

Style - Leadership style and management approach

Staff - Employee skills, training, incentives etc.

Skills - Organizational capabilities, competencies, expertise

Identifies gaps or misalignments between the elements needing realignment

Recognizes that making changes to one element affects the other elements

Provides a comprehensive view of organizational design and capabilities

Conclusion

Developing competitive advantage is vital for a firm's success in its industry

Differentiation creates a unique value proposition to attract customers

Growth strategies can be systematically analyzed through the Ansoff Matrix

The McKinsey 7S model provides a holistic assessment of internal alignment

Firms must choose strategies that best fit their core competencies and environment

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