Industry and Competitor Analysis

Start by defining the industry

Begin with External Analysis. Its mind map introduces an industry as a group of companies serving the same customer needs and distinguishes an industry from a sector. It also covers opportunities, threats and potential competitors.

Then open Industry analysis to see how industry boundaries, market segments and the macroenvironment fit into the picture. Comparing the maps can help you organize the terms before moving on to competition.

Examine competition and industry conditions

Strategy analysis brings together profit drivers and risks with rivalry, potential entrants, substitute products and buyer bargaining power. Use its branches to make a checklist of the competitive pressures you want to consider.

How to do an Industry Analysis? offers a different starting point: it outlines steps such as reviewing available reports and statistics and selecting the relevant industry. Read it alongside the other maps to connect the concepts with an approach to analysis.

Use flashcards with the maps

Chapter 2 Strategy analysis includes questions about profit potential, industry profitability and sources of competition. Study a map branch, then use the deck to practice explaining the related ideas without looking at the map. Return to the relevant branch when you want to check or organize your answer.

The page also lists an Airlines flashcard deck and maps on industries including pharmaceuticals and snack foods. These offer other resources to explore after the introductory maps.

Connect back to the unit

Industry and Competitor Analysis is a section of the Strategic Analysis unit in Business administration and management (incl. project management). As you use these resources, keep the unit in view: the maps and flashcards let you practice the industry and competition side of strategic analysis.

Choose a map and a flashcard deck to use together as you study.