COMPETITIVE INTELLIGENCE: ESSENTIAL ASPECTS
Abstract
This article examines the theoretical aspects of competitive intelligence in a substantive context. It highlights the importance of competitive intelligence in ensuring the competitiveness of modern companies amid the growing influence of various factors and the increasing complexity and dynamism of the competitive environment. The concept of competitive intelligence is examined through the lens of identifying different vectors of its understanding, with a focus on certain essential characteristics, namely: in an ethical and legal context; within a process-oriented approach; in terms of its significance and role in strategic management; and through comparison with related concepts, namely business analytics and competitor intelligence. Attention is focused on the need to take into account all the aforementioned essential aspects when understanding competitive intelligence, especially given the significant expansion of the range of goals and tasks set for it in modern conditions. Emphasis is placed on the concept of comprehensive competitive intelligence and its key characteristics. Particular attention is drawn to the proactive nature of competitive intelligence and its creative, innovative component, which deepens the understanding of competitive intelligence’s contribution to managerial decision-making. The trend toward the application of integrated competitive intelligence is examined against the backdrop of an expanding range of complex analytical tasks and external environmental challenges, as well as the rapid development of new technological solutions, particularly within the context of digitalization and the application of artificial intelligence. The article highlights the advantages and opportunities that arise for companies when building an effective competitive intelligence system. It emphasizes the interdisciplinary, multifaceted, and systemic nature of competitive intelligence, which necessitates a broad functional set of competencies and close, flexible collaboration among all specialists involved in the competitive intelligence system.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ірина Корнілова
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