STRATEGYMonths to result

Accumulation of Experience Framework

Learning curve

Problem it solves

unclear strategic direction

Best for

Companies with high volumes of production

Not ideal for

Companies with low volumes of production

Overview

Why this framework exists

The accumulation of experience can provide a competitive advantage by reducing unit costs and increasing efficiency. However, the learning curve can be affected by the diffusion of proprietary technology.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Experience can provide a competitive advantage
  2. The learning curve can be affected by technological diffusion
  3. Continual innovation is necessary to maintain a competitive advantage

Steps

3 steps
  1. Identify Opportunities for Experience Accumulation
    Identify opportunities to accumulate experience and reduce unit costs
    Pro tipConsider investing in research and development
    WarningFailure to accumulate experience can lead to loss of competitive advantage
  2. Assess Learning Curve
    Assess the learning curve and its impact on unit costs
    Pro tipConsider the complexity of the technology and the availability of skilled personnel
    WarningUnderestimating the learning curve can lead to loss of competitive advantage
  3. Develop Strategy to Maintain Competitive Advantage
    Develop a strategy to maintain a competitive advantage through experience accumulation and innovation
    Pro tipInvest in research and development
    WarningFailure to innovate can lead to loss of competitive advantage

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Light Aircraft Example

The light aircraft industry experienced changes in industry structure due to the accumulation of experience

OutcomeCompanies that accumulated experience and innovated maintained their competitive advantage

Common mistakes

2 traps
Underestimating Learning Curve
Failing to consider the learning curve can lead to loss of competitive advantage
Failing to Innovate
Failure to continually innovate can lead to loss of competitive advantage

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The framework is based on the idea that experience can provide a competitive advantage, but it can be affected by technological diffusion.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
Competitive Strategy
Michael E. Porter · 1980
Open source →

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