Porter's 5 Forces on Industries

Structural analysis of an industry is a valuable tool that can be used as a primary determinant of a firm's long-term profitability. Understanding the dynamics of competitive forces can provide insight into the attractiveness of an industry and the potential for returns on capital. Michael Porter, a Harvard Business School professor, has developed a framework for understanding an industry's structure. Porter's analysis is widely taught in business schools and commonly used by analysts. Porter's book, Competitive Strategy, provides an excellent, readable resource for understanding the impact of competitive forces on an industry. According to Porter, the five competitive forces affecting an industry are: threat of entry, competitive rivalry, bargaining power...