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Competitive Moat Analysis
Identify what protects your venture from competitors for five years — or build a moat if none exists.
Goal
Move from a fuzzy belief of "we're better" to explicit awareness of durable differentiation sources.
Steps
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1
List five potential moat types: network effects, brand, low cost, switching cost, intellectual property.
Expected Outcome
Immediate
For the first time you understand why a competitor could copy you in 6 months — or why they can't.
Evidence base
School: Value Investing / Strategic Moats
Founders: Warren Buffett · Pat Dorsey · Hamilton Helmer (1991)
The "economic moat" concept popularized via Buffett's shareholder letters since 1991. Extended by Hamilton Helmer in "7 Powers" (2016) with seven competitive forces.
Keywords
Frequently asked questions
How long does "Competitive Moat Analysis" take?
This exercise takes about 30 minutes, practiced in a group in a Written reflection format.
When will I notice the effect of "Competitive Moat Analysis"?
For the first time you understand why a competitor could copy you in 6 months — or why they can't. In the short term: Within 3 months, you make at least two decisions motivated by moat-strengthening rather than "quick win".
Is "Competitive Moat Analysis" evidence-based?
Yes — it draws on Value Investing / Strategic Moats (Warren Buffett, Pat Dorsey, Hamilton Helmer (1991)). The "economic moat" concept popularized via Buffett's shareholder letters since 1991. Extended by Hamilton Helmer in "7 Powers" (2016) with seven competitive forces.
Is "Competitive Moat Analysis" suitable for beginners?
Its difficulty level is: Advanced. No external tools required — it can be practiced directly inside the app.
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