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Dominant and Sub-Dominant Business Strategy - Simplified!!

Updated: Jan 18

Dominant and Sub-Dominant Strategy - Simplified!!


Over the years, I have had the privilege of learning from teachers who have influenced my thinking both personally and professionally.


And today, I take this opportunity to share an interesting lesson that I took as a business school student in understanding Dominant and Sub-dominant Strategy.


Women in white sarees with golden borders
Dominant and Subdominant Strategy

You might wonder how is this picture (from the film Aisha) depicting dominant or subdominant strategy.


If you observe, the 3 bridesmaids have chosen to wear white sarees with gold zari border - That is the dominant theme (or dominant strategy/choice).


On closer observation, you will realize that the designs of the blouses that they are wearing have subtle differences. That is the Sub-dominant theme (or the Sub-dominant strategy/choice).


As students we were awestruck, wondering how did our professor come-up with this example 🤔 . How could one think about strategy while watching 3 beautiful bridesmaids dancing to a peppy tune 😃 .


Our professor then extended this example to the competing no-frills airlines back then – Indigo and SpiceJet. While the dominant strategy is ‘no-frills’ for both the airlines (as against full-service), the subdominant strategy is On-time Performance for Indigo and Tasty meals for SpiceJet.


Here is my tribute to our teacher, late Dr. Ajit Prasad, who taught us Strategy through the most intriguing examples.

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