A business is a system. To create value, several distinct functions must coordinate perfectly. Here is how they break down strategically:

• Operations (The Engine): Responsible for actually making the product or delivering the service efficiently.

• Marketing & Sales (The Voice & Ears): Marketing figures out what the market wants and generates demand. Sales closes the deal and brings the actual revenue in the door.

• Accounting & Finance (The Scorecard & Fuel Gauge): Accounting tracks the money that has already been spent. Finance looks forward, deciding where to invest money to grow.

• Human Resources (The Glue): Acquires, trains, and retains the human capital needed to execute the strategy.

• IT / Tech (The Nervous System): Builds and maintains the data and communication infrastructure that allows all other functions to operate.