To summarize our discussion of the five forces model, Exhibit 3.4 provides a check- list that you can apply to any industry when assessing the underlying competitive forces that shape strategy. The key take-away from the five forces model is that the stronger (weaker) the forces, the lower (greater) the industry’s ability to earn above-average profits, and correspondingly, the lower (greater) the firm’s ability to gain and sustain a competitive advantage. Therefore, managers need to craft a strategic position for their company that leverages weak forces into opportunities, and mitigates strong forces because they are potential threats to the firm’s ability to gain and sustain a competitive advantage.