Common Errors in Developing Competitive Strategies *) 

 
1) Mousetrap Syndrome
Assumes any superior capability can be converted into a  competitive advantage

2) The "We Can Do Anything" Syndrome
Assumes your business or company can capitalize upon any genuine market opportunity

3) The "Only We Can Do It" Syndrome
Assumes your competitors cannot (or will not) imitate (or leapfrog) your competitive advantages

4) The "Our Competitive Advantage Is Forever" Syndrome
Assumes the environment, your competitors and customers will allow your competitive advantages to last forever

*) H. Kurt Christensen, Kellogg Graduate School of Management