Ludendorff: Strategist

By: LTC William A. Jones

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Synopsis: One of the techniques to understanding the successful choreography of the elements of strategy is the study of the great strategists of history. This worthy endeavor, however, should not be limited to the study of success. Many significant lessons concerning the components of strategy can only be derived from studying the examples of great strategic failure. Erich Ludendorff failed as a strategic leader. This case study traces the genesis of his failure in the context of his inability to properly coordinate the elements of strategy. It is an analysis of the process which led to his failure. An appreciation of his background and heritage reveals the nature of his values and prejudices which accompanied him to the strategic level. An analysis of his strategic development links his character with his personal experiences at the different levels of leadership. Finally an essay of his work as a strategic leader is diagrammed in terms of his character, his development and the strategic environment of the times. Collectively, this diversified group of inputs, some complimentary, others often in direct competition, serve to identify the base from which his strategic decisions were made. The value of this study becomes apparent as the errors suddenly become glaring and the student finds himself learning from the strategic solution that in fact led to failure.