Final answer:
The element of surprise provides great competitive advantages in both military and business strategy, disrupting adversary plans and outmaneuvering competitors, which is reflected in the principles of military strategy that emphasize the importance of deception and anticipating competition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The element of surprise is often regarded as a critical factor in achieving competitive advantages in both military and business strategies. In military terms, surprise can disorient and disrupt the plans of an adversary, which can lead to a decisive victory. This is echoed in business strategies, where surprising competitors with innovative products, marketing campaigns, or strategic moves can give a company a significant edge in the market. The statements and principles of war as expressed in LibreTexts, such as the value of deception and the importance of strategic calculations, illustrate the enduring understanding of these concepts.
Strategic superiority and the capability to anticipate competition reflect the need to adapt quickly to changing circumstances, which is just as crucial in business as it is on the battlefield. Consequently, the element of surprise provides great competitive advantages in both military and business strategy.