Book · Short read (the underlying book runs about 240 pages)

Blue Ocean Strategy: The Value Curve and Four Actions Framework

W. Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne · Blue Ocean Strategy Free Intermediate

A feature comparison matrix quietly assumes the goal is to match or beat every box a competitor ticks. The value curve flips that: you plot where to diverge on purpose (eliminate, reduce, raise, create) instead of chasing parity. This is the official framework page from the book's own authors, so you get the idea straight from the source before deciding whether a matrix helps you or just herds you toward copying.

• The four actions (eliminate, reduce, raise, create) push you to redraw the value curve rather than tick the same boxes as everyone else.
• A useful matrix maps where you deliberately look different, not where you fall short on a rival's checklist.
• Chasing feature parity tends to raise your cost while keeping you invisible; divergence is what makes the comparison beside the point.