The Seven Elements: Benchmarking Internal Strengths and Competitor Analysis


The Seven Elements framework offers a structured approach to benchmarking internal strengths and weaknesses against those of competitors. By examining factors such as motivation, experience, and training, businesses gain insight into how well competitors—and themselves—can adapt to changing environments. This comparative analysis provides a foundation for strategic decision-making, enabling organizations to anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and strengthen their competitive position.

 The Seven Elements:

  1. Which ruler posses moral influence;
  2. Which commander is the more able;
  3. Which army obtains the advantage of nature and the terrain;
  4. In which, regulations and the instructions are better carried out;
  5. Which troops are the stronger;
  6. Which has the better trained officers and men;
  7. And which administers rewards and punishments in a more enlightened manner.