In the parable, the fox uses many strategies to try to catch the hedgehog. It sneaks, pounces, races, and plays dead. And yet, every time, it walks away defeated, its tender nose pricked by spines. The fox never learns that the hedgehog knows how to do one big thing perfectly: defend itself.

Foxes pursue many goals and interests at the same time. As a result, their thinking is scattered and unfocused, and ultimately they achieve very little. Hedgehogs, however, simplify the world and focus on a single, overarching vision, which they then achieve.

Organizations will more likely succeed if they can identify the one thing that they do best, their Hedgehog Concept. This one big thing approach can help your organization to focus on three main areas: passion, talent and the economic engine. By understanding each of these dimensions and, more importantly, where they overlap, you can identify the key focus that will guide your organization toward meaningful, long-term success.

When an organization has identified its Hedgehog Concept, its leaders should devote all of their energy and resources to pursuing it. When the going gets tough, it's the organizations that focus on what they're good at that survive and thrive.

The message of "Good to Great", a book by Jim Collins, explained in an article on mindtools.com.