Unfortunately we are saddled with the news of the on-going war(s). Regardless of how you feel about the strategy and tactics in these engagements, there are critical principles use that can be learned and applied. A working understanding of these time-tested principles can help you increase the value of your business.  The principles for management today are adapted from what is certainly one of the best management books ever written... "The Art of War".

Every Business Owner Should Review these Principles on a Regular Basis!

Manage daily based on an understanding of how each principle effects your plans and results.

Objective — you must have a clearly defined, and obtainable, objective.
(Know where you want to go, measure progress, and understand the benefits of succeeding.)

Offense — Seize, retain, and exploit the initiative.
(To succeed management must continuously “out market” and “out serve” the competition.)

Mass — Concentrate forces at the decisive time and place.
(Know how and where to apply the strength of the company to the market place to provide benefits for the customer…i.e. focus effort and capital to create a competitive advantage)

Economy of Force — The mirror image of Mass; keep the minimum of force at non-critical points.
(Don't squander effort and assets on tasks with a low probability of success.)

Maneuver — Don't be a sitting duck.
(Stay flexible, assess trends, and adjust plans according.)

Unity of Command — Too many chefs spoil the broth.
(Leadership is critical; make sure the operating structure and management responsibility and accountability enhances the decision making process.)

Surprise — Do what they won't expect.
(Out think the competition, be creative, learn to take measured, well-timed risks.)

Security — Make sure they don't surprise you.
(Constantly research the market, study customers and analyze the competition, and be prepared to quickly handle any new developments.)

Simplicity — Complicated plans are a formula for disaster in the chaos of war.
(Carefully choose the right strategy, understand the critical elements for success, and plan accordingly.)

If all of your plans and actions follow these principles

YOUR business will surely benefit and consequently increase in value.