May 14, 2009

A 'me too' GOP?

By James A. Leggette
Since the election of President Obama -- and now accelerated by the defection of Senator Arlen Specter, much ink and chattering has been devoted the future of the Republican Party. Like any organization either in politics, sports or business which is currently behind, the GOP is struggling with crafting a game changing strategy. Some advocate embracing a big tent strategy by incorporating a variety of disparate and potentially irreconcilable views. Others argue that the party should go back to set of core conservative principles despite the risk it might appeal to a smaller audience than desired to build a new majority.While there are merits in both these approaches, principles from the business world, and in particular marketing, can be brought to bear to understand which strategy is better is in the long run. When a business is losing market share to a firm with a better selling product, it only has two true options. It can cede leadership and create a "me too" product....(Read Full Article)