Spotlight on George Stalk

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to record an interview with George Stalk of The Boston Consulting Group.

Design/methodology/approach

The article cites illustrative examples of a selection of notably successful companies including Toyota, Dell, CarMax, Ford Customer Service Division, Wausau Papers and the Batesville Casket Company.

Findings

George Stalk points out that, despite the “hardball” competitive strategy advocated, the approach is “softball” in its human‐resource orientation and goal of growth. Stalk emphasizes that companies cannot cost‐reduce their way to prosperity.

Originality/value

This article focuses on the need for companies to compete if they are to thrive, playing to win through competitive strategies aimed at creating unassailable advantage.

Citation

Powell, S. (2006), "Spotlight on George Stalk", Management Decision, Vol. 44 No. 9, pp. 1305-1310. https://doi.org/10.1108/00251740610707749