The book begins by defining strategic management, outlining its importance, and distinguishing it from other management disciplines. It explores the benefits and challenges of implementing strategic management processes.

David delves into the core of strategic management by examining the process of formulating effective strategies. This includes defining the organization's mission, conducting thorough internal and external environmental analyses (using tools like SWOT analysis), and developing strategic options.

The book explores various types of strategies employed by businesses, such as cost leadership, differentiation, and focus strategies. It also examines strategies related to specific functional areas like marketing, finance, and operations.

A well-formulated strategy is only as good as its implementation. David emphasizes the critical role of effective implementation and outlines key factors that contribute to successful execution, including leadership, organizational structure, and resource allocation.

The final section focuses on the continuous process of evaluating and controlling strategic initiatives. It examines methods for monitoring performance, identifying deviations from the plan, and making necessary adjustments to stay on track.