STRATEGYMonths to result

Structural Change Framework

Understand industry evolution

Problem it solves

unclear strategic direction

Best for

Companies seeking to understand and prepare for industry evolution

Not ideal for

Companies with limited resources or inability to adapt to change

Overview

Why this framework exists

The Structural Change Framework is a tool for understanding how industries change over time. It highlights the importance of considering the impact of changes in industry structure on a company's competitive position. The framework consists of several key elements, including changes in mobility barriers, power dynamics, and profitability.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Industries are constantly evolving
  2. Changes in industry structure can have a significant impact on a company's competitive position
  3. Companies must be aware of changes in industry structure and adapt their strategy accordingly

Steps

3 steps
  1. Monitor industry structure for changes
    Monitor industry structure for changes resulting from innovations, changes in government policy, and other factors.
    Pro tipConsider the potential impact of changes in industry structure on a company's competitive position.
    WarningFailure to monitor industry structure for changes can leave a company unprepared for changes in the industry.
  2. Assess the impact of changes in industry structure
    Assess the potential impact of changes in industry structure on a company's competitive position.
    Pro tipConsider the potential effects of changes in industry structure on mobility barriers, power dynamics, and profitability.
    WarningFailure to assess the impact of changes in industry structure can lead to missed opportunities or unpreparedness for changes in the industry.
  3. Develop a strategy to respond to changes in industry structure
    Develop a strategy to respond to changes in industry structure, including potential changes in mobility barriers, power dynamics, and profitability.
    Pro tipConsider the potential effects of changes in industry structure on a company's competitive position and develop a strategy to respond to these changes.
    WarningFailure to develop a strategy to respond to changes in industry structure can leave a company unprepared for changes in the industry.

Checklist

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Examples

2 cases
The retailing industry

Changes in the structure of the retailing industry, including the growth of chain stores, have had a significant impact on the apparel manufacturing industry.

OutcomeThe apparel manufacturing industry has become more concentrated, with a greater emphasis on efficiency and cost savings.
The recording industry

Changes in the structure of the recording industry, including the shift to the 'Top 40' format, have had a significant impact on the industry's competitive dynamics.

OutcomeThe industry has become more competitive, with a greater emphasis on marketing and promotion.

Common mistakes

3 traps
Failure to monitor industry structure for changes
Failure to monitor industry structure for changes can leave a company unprepared for changes in the industry.
Failure to assess the impact of changes in industry structure
Failure to assess the impact of changes in industry structure can lead to missed opportunities or unpreparedness for changes in the industry.
Failure to develop a strategy to respond to changes in industry structure
Failure to develop a strategy to respond to changes in industry structure can leave a company unprepared for changes in the industry.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The Structural Change Framework was developed by Michael E. Porter as part of his work on competitive strategy. It is based on the idea that industries are constantly evolving and that companies must be aware of these changes in order to remain competitive.

Source

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

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