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A strong antagonist makes a strong protagonist. Computer users wouldn't support the open source movement so enthusiastically if Microsoft did not exist. Genghis Khan, the prolific leader who conquered the world, learned early on that by determining a common enemy he could unite the divided Mongol tribes and unleash a force unheard of. Similarly, if it were not for IBM back in the 80's, Steve Jobs would've never been able to build a cult around Apple. Strategy, therefore, is not just the art of planning the line of attack; it is also choosing whom to fight.

Some smart entrepreneurs tend to use their comeptition to validate their own product. While the article is great (I mean it), it should be noted that it is not always bad to have competition.



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