10.19

Chapter: Terrain

10.19

Translation:

When a general, unable to estimate the enemy’s strength, allows an inferior force to engage a larger one, or hurls a weak detachment against a powerful one, and neglects to place picked soldiers in the front rank, the result must be rout.

Commentary

In war, intelligence is key, and knowing your enemy’s strength is a critical part of this.

The troops on the front line act as a shield for the rest of the army. If the front line is penetrated then further problems ensue. It hence is important to have strong front-line troops.

In business, the customer surface, where people touch customers on a regular basis, is an important part of the brand. It is strange how many big-name companies outsource sales and service calls to companies who do the brand a daily disservice.