What can Sir Julian Corbett’s “Principals of Maritime Strategy” teach us today?

Sir Julian Corbett's principles of maritime strategy are primarily focused on strategic use of maritime power. Unlike others Corbett did not offer a general theory of warfare on the high seas, to him battle was all part of a larger maritime strategy.?? He drew heavily upon the works of two other “master of strategy” from the Napoleonic era, that of Jomini and Clausewitz.?? His works may seem primarily applicable to naval power of a nation, there are several key principles and concepts that can be adapted and applied to various departments within a business. Let's explore some of these principles and how they might be relevant:

Economy of Force: Corbett emphasizes the importance of concentrating forces at decisive points while maintaining a minimum force at secondary or less important areas. Similarly, in business, departments should prioritize and allocate resources where they can have the most significant impact. This could involve focusing efforts on core products or services while streamlining less critical aspects.

Concentration of Power: Corbett highlights the advantage of concentrating superior force against a weaker enemy. In a business context, this can translate to focusing efforts on competitive advantages and core strengths to dominate specific markets or segments.

Flexibility and Adaptability: Corbett emphasizes the need for flexibility in strategy and tactics. Businesses should be able to adapt to changing market conditions, consumer preferences, and technological advancements. Being rigid can lead to missed opportunities or being outmaneuvered by more agile competitors.

Interdependence and Coordination: Corbett stresses the importance of coordination and cooperation among different elements of naval power. In a business setting, cross-functional collaboration between departments is crucial for overall success. Ensuring that different departments work harmoniously can lead to better outcomes.

Strategic Partnerships: Corbett's emphasis on maintaining maritime trade lines and supporting allies' interests can be translated into forming strategic partnerships and alliances in business. Collaborating with other companies or organizations can open new markets, resources, and opportunities.

Risk Management: Corbett's ideas about minimizing risks through effective command and control can be applied to risk management in business. Having clear hierarchies, well-defined processes, and contingency plans can help businesses mitigate potential risks and navigate challenges effectively.

Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Corbett's focus on supply delivery to the Iberian Peninsula highlights the importance of logistics and supply chain management. Efficient supply chains are crucial for businesses to ensure timely delivery of products and services, contributing to customer satisfaction and operational excellence.

Information and Intelligence: Corbett's emphasis on understanding the enemy's capabilities and intentions relates to the importance of market research, competitive analysis, and data-driven decision-making in business. Having accurate information and insights is essential for making informed strategic choices.

Long-Term Vision: Corbett's analysis of the British navy's role in supporting the Battle of Waterloo underscores the long-term impact of strategic decisions. Similarly, businesses should have a long-term vision and plan that extends beyond short-term gains. Investing in research, innovation, and sustainable growth can lead to enduring success.

This last principle is one that I feel has all been lost by business and business leaders completely.? The British Navy for 3 years had to do things it particularly did not want to do.? Commerce raiding, running a continuous stream of supplies into the Iberian Peninsula or what Napoleon himself would later refer to as his “Spanish Ulcer.”?? History can draw a straight line from its subornation of its greater strategic desires to Waterloo.? Without the British Navy doing all those thankless, mundane tasks Waterloo could not have happened.? In today’s business world how, many times have you seen individual departments within a company refuse to or even worse actively work against the greater strategy of the company.? Whatever it’s called, company politics, turf, scope of work, it always inhibits success. Corbett can help today’s business leaders identify when this is happening and if you can identify it, explain it broadly to all involved you are on the right path, the winning path to your own Waterloo.

Incorporating these principles into various departments within a business can contribute to improved efficiency, strategic alignment, and overall success. While the context is different, the underlying principles of effective strategy, resource allocation, and adaptability remain relevant and valuable.

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My passions have always revolved around history, strategy, and economics. A wise person once said, “if you want a new idea, read an old book.”? I publish this so that you might become familiar with these “Masters of Strategy” and find a place for them in your professional career.

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Joe Luscavage is the Northeast Enterprise Sales Leader for Lively, Inc.? Lively is an innovative technology company providing consumer driven health products (HSA/FSA/DCAP/HRA/LSA & COBRA) to customers of all size across the U.S.? Lively is not just today, it’s tomorrow.?

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