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Strategy

Core Competencies

Animated whiteboard explainer: Core Competencies

Prahalad & Hamel, 1990 0:39 Whiteboard video

Overview

What if you could identify the few key strengths that set your business apart from the rest? Core competencies are the unique capabilities that give an organization its competitive edge. Used in strategy development, they help focus resources on what truly matters.

Key Components

Visualized as a central hub with supporting activities radiating outward, the diagram shows how core competencies drive value creation. To apply it, start by asking: what do we do better than anyone else?

How to Apply

Once identified, align your goals and operations around these strengths.

Key Insight

Understanding core competencies isn’t just about survival—it’s about thriving in a competitive landscape.