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Efficiency Quote by Richard P. Rumelt

“A good strategy focuses efforts on a target, and that focus can only be achieved by not diffusing energy in other directions - that is the meaning of Michael Porter's dictum of "choosing what not to do." At the same time, a good strategy chooses the right target to focus on, not wasting the focus…” quote by Richard P. Rumelt
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“A good strategy focuses efforts on a target, and that focus can only be achieved by not diffusing energy in other directions - that is the meaning of Michael Porter's dictum of "choosing what not to do." At the same time, a good strategy chooses the right target to focus on, not wasting the focus of energy on a target that cannot be affected or that is unimportant - that is the meaning of Drucker's distinction between efficiency and effectiveness.”

Richard P. Rumelt

About This Quote

Source Book: Good Strategy Bad Strategy by Richard P. Rumelt, 2011

Effective strategy concentrates resources on a clear target, avoiding wasted effort on irrelevant goals.

In simple terms: Focus resources, avoid distractions.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize what matters, discard the rest.

Themes

strategy focus efficiency

Mood

analytical pragmatic

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • business planning
  • project management
  • personal productivity

Key Concepts

resource allocation decision making

Questions to Reflect On

  • What is your most important target now?
  • How do you decide what to ignore?
A Different Perspective

Rigid focus can miss emerging opportunities.

2.7 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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