On Competition brings together, for the first time, more than a dozen of Porter's articles; two entirely new pieces written especially for this collection as well as eleven of his landmark articles from the Harvard Business Review. In addition, Porter contributes a special introduction, his first statement of how the whole range of his work fits together.

These essays develop some consistent themes: the key to profitability and growth - indeed to survival - is to stake out, and then constantly improve upon, a distinctive competitive position; prosperity arises from the ability to continually improve productivity; and much societal progress comes primarily through private-sector innovation. These themes have proven robust despite dramatic changes in the competitive landscape.

On Competition will continue to provide the intellectual foundation for company and country strategies for years to come.