舉軍而爭利則不及委軍而爭利則輜重捐
Sun Tzu
Sun Tzu is saying that if you try to move a fully equipped army quickly to take advantage of a situation, there is a good chance that you will be too late and miss the opportunity. On the other hand, if you send a smaller, more mobile force (a “flying column”) to seize the opportunity, you will have to leave behind some of its supplies and equipment, which may be necessary for its long-term success. Sun Tzu is emphasizing the importance of speed and flexibility in military strategy.
A large, well-equipped team may be too slow to seize market opportunities. A smaller, more agile team can move faster, but may have to sacrifice some resources.
In the business world, being able to respond quickly to changes in the market and seize opportunities as they arise is often crucial for success. A large, well-equipped team may have many strengths, such as access to a wide range of resources and expertise, and may be well-suited to tackling long-term projects or complex challenges. However, this kind of team may also be slower to move and adapt to changing circumstances, and may be less able to respond quickly to new opportunities or threats.
On the other hand, a smaller, more agile team may be able to move more quickly and take advantage of opportunities as they arise. This kind of team may be more focused and adaptable, and may be able to respond to changing circumstances with greater speed and flexibility. However, it may also have to sacrifice some of the resources and support that are available to a larger, more established team. For example, a small, agile team may have to leave behind some of its equipment or supplies in order to move quickly, or may have to rely on external partners or vendors for certain services or support.
Ultimately, the decision of which approach to take will depend on the specific situation and the goals of the business. A large, well-equipped team may be the best choice in some situations, while a smaller, more agile team may be a better fit in others. By considering the trade-offs and making a strategic decision, a business can position itself to respond effectively to market opportunities and stay ahead of the competition.