STRATEGYWeeks to result

Growth/Share Matrix

Evaluate business units based on growth and market share

Problem it solves

unclear strategic direction

Best for

Companies with multiple business units

Not ideal for

Small businesses or those with limited resources

Overview

Why this framework exists

This framework outlines the key considerations for evaluating business units based on growth and market share. It highlights the importance of identifying cash cows, dogs, stars, and question marks, and managing the portfolio accordingly.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Identify cash cows, dogs, stars, and question marks in the portfolio
  2. Manage the portfolio to maximize returns and minimize risk
  3. Focus on creating value through operational improvements rather than just financial engineering

Steps

2 steps
  1. Identify Cash Cows, Dogs, Stars, and Question Marks
    Determine which business units are cash cows, dogs, stars, and question marks, based on their growth and market share
    Pro tipConsider the competitive position of each business unit and the potential for growth and profitability
    WarningFailing to identify cash cows, dogs, stars, and question marks may lead to poor portfolio management and reduced returns
  2. Manage the Portfolio to Maximize Returns and Minimize Risk
    Manage the portfolio to maximize returns and minimize risk, by investing in stars and question marks, and harvesting or divesting dogs
    Pro tipFocus on creating value through operational improvements rather than just financial engineering
    WarningFailing to manage the portfolio may lead to poor returns and reduced profitability

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Procter and Gamble's Portfolio Management

Procter and Gamble used the Growth/Share Matrix to evaluate its business units and manage its portfolio, resulting in significant returns and growth

OutcomeThe company was able to maximize returns and minimize risk through effective portfolio management

Common mistakes

2 traps
Failing to Identify Cash Cows, Dogs, Stars, and Question Marks
Failing to identify cash cows, dogs, stars, and question marks may lead to poor portfolio management and reduced returns
Failing to Manage the Portfolio
Failing to manage the portfolio may lead to poor returns and reduced profitability

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The Growth/Share Matrix was developed by the Boston Consulting Group as a tool for evaluating business units and managing a portfolio of businesses.

Source

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

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