法者曲制官道主用也
Sun Tzu
In this passage from “The Art of War,” Sun Tzu is discussing the importance of method and discipline in the organization and management of an army.
By “method and discipline,” Sun Tzu is referring to the systematic and orderly way in which an army is organized and managed. This includes the way in which the army is divided into smaller units, the hierarchy of ranks among the officers, the maintenance of supply lines to ensure the army has access to necessary resources, and the control of military spending to ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively.
In other words, Sun Tzu is emphasizing the importance of good organization and management in military operations, as these factors can greatly impact the success or failure of an army in battle. Without proper method and discipline, an army may be disorganized and chaotic, making it more vulnerable to defeat.
By method and discipline, we understand the structure and hierarchy of the company, the distribution of tasks among departments and employees, the establishment of efficient communication and supply chains, and the control of financial resources to maximize profits and minimize waste.
In a business context, having a clear method and discipline in place is essential for a company’s success. The organization and structure of a company allows for the efficient allocation of tasks and responsibilities among employees. This ensures that everyone is working towards the same goals and objectives in an organized manner. The hierarchy among employees, or the gradations of rank, provides a clear chain of command and decision-making authority. This allows for effective communication and coordination within the company.
Maintaining efficient systems for the distribution of resources, such as raw materials, finished goods, and information, is crucial for a company’s operations. This allows the company to respond to market demands and customer needs in a timely manner. Finally, the control of military expenditure is analogous to the management of financial resources in a business. This involves setting budgets, tracking expenses, and making informed financial decisions to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of the company.