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Continuity Quote by Michael E. Porter

“One implication is that strategic positions should have a horizon of a decade or more, not of a single planning cycle. Continuity fosters improvements in individual activities and the fit across activities, allowing an organization to build unique capabilities and skills tailored to its strategy…” quote by Michael E. Porter
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““One implication is that strategic positions should have a horizon of a decade or more, not of a single planning cycle. Continuity fosters improvements in individual activities and the fit across activities, allowing an organization to build unique capabilities and skills tailored to its strategy. Continuity also reinforces a company’s identity. Conversely,””

Michael E. Porter

About This Quote

Source Article: Harvard Business Review, 2020

Strategic roles need long‑term horizons to build unique capabilities, continuity, and identity, rather than short planning cycles.

In simple terms: Long‑term planning builds unique skills and identity; short cycles hinder continuity.

Key Takeaway

Adopt decade‑plus strategic horizons.

Themes

strategy continuity capabilities identity planning

Mood

analytical forward‑looking

Type

strategic management

When to use this quote

  • corporate strategy
  • executive planning
  • resource allocation

Key Concepts

long‑term planning organizational learning skill development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can firms balance long‑term continuity with rapid innovation?
  • What risks arise from overly rigid strategic horizons?
A Different Perspective

Long horizons may reduce flexibility in fast‑changing markets.

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