The blue ocean strategy works by using four key concepts: value innovation, the strategy canvas, the four actions framework, and the errc grid. Value innovation is the core of the blue ocean strategy, and it means creating a leap in value for both customers and the company, by aligning innovation with utility, price, and cost. The strategy canvas is a tool that helps you visualize your current position in the market, and how you can create a new value curve that stands out from the competition. The four actions framework is a method that helps you formulate your value proposition, by asking you to eliminate, reduce, raise, and create factors that affect your customers' value and cost. The errc grid is a matrix that helps you summarize and communicate your value proposition, by showing what factors you eliminate, reduce, raise, and create compared to the industry standard.