Strategy Theory

Every generation rediscovers Carl von Clausewitz’s most famous dictum: war is simply the continuation of politics by other means. This simple yet profound idea has shaped how states craft military doctrine, manage conflict escalation, and conduct diplomacy. By viewing armed force as one tool in a broader political toolbox, leaders can better align their ends and means—and avoid the traps of open-ended violence. The Core Idea: War as Continuation of Policy Clausewitz taught that military action cannot be divorced from the political objectives behind it. War is not an end in itself but an instrument to secure a political goal. This perspective forces strategists to define clear, achievable aims before committing lives and resources. Shaping Military Policy Military institutions around the world embed this Clausewitzian insight into doctrine and planning: Civilian Control of the Military Ensuring elected leaders set objectives, not commanders. Strategic Objectives Over Tactics ...

Pivoting isn’t a sign of failure—it’s the art of reimagining your business to seize new opportunities. Netflix and Slack both began with very different missions before they recognized shifting landscapes and reinvented themselves. In this post, we’ll analyze their journeys and provide practical steps to guide your own strategic pivot. Netflix: From DVDs in Your Mailbox to Global Streaming Giant Netflix launched in 1997 as a DVD-by-mail service, challenging brick-and-mortar rental stores. By 2007, it introduced streaming, betting that broadband adoption would redefine home entertainment. A decade later, original series like House of Cards positioned Netflix not only as a distributor but also as a major content creator. Key inflection points: Declining postal DVD subscriptions prompted investment in streaming technology. Data-driven insights into viewer preferences led to targeted content commissions. The shift to subscription streaming reduced overhead and unlocked global scale...