Our competitors are shipping AI features and marketing content twice as fast as us. How do we adjust our V/TO and 1-Year Plan without panic-hiring or losing our focus?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

When competitors start weaponizing AI to move faster, the temptation is to react with panic. This is where your EOS framework keeps you grounded. Do not throw out your V/TO because of a competitor's press release. Instead, bring this directly to your next weekly Level 10 Meeting as an Issue. Use the IDS process to isolate what is actually happening. Are they truly taking market share, or are they just generating noise?

Focus on your Core Focus and your Target Market. If the threat is real, the leadership team must assign a strategic Rock for the next quarter. This might mean dedicating one person to research a specific AI-driven efficiency. Do not panic-hire engineers or consultants who promise the world.

Instead, look at your existing Accountability Chart. Evaluate your current team's Kolbe profiles. A high Quick Start on your team can run a rapid, low-risk pilot of a third-party AI tool to match competitor speed without breaking your systems. Keep your execution disciplined, maintain your focus on net margin, and let your competitors burn cash on unproven technology.