Strengthening Isolating Mechanisms

When an isolating mechanism is based on the collective know-how of groups, it may be strengthened by reducing turnover. 

An isolating mechanism inhibits competitors from duplicating your product or the resources underlying your competitive advantage.  If you can create new isolating mechanisms, or strengthen existing ones, you can increase the value of the business.  This increased value will flow from lessened imitative competition and a consequent slower erosion of your resource values. 

The most obvious approach to strengthening isolating mechanisms is working on stronger patents, brand-name protections, and copyrights.  When a new product is developed, its protection may be strengthened by stretching an already powerful brand name to cover it.  When an isolating mechanism is based on the collective know-how of groups, it may be strengthened by reducing turnover.  When protections are unclear, legislation or courtroom verdicts may clarify and strengthen certain positions.

ACTION POINT:  Identify and strengthen the resources that provide any competitive advantage you have.