[JVerstry]

This original post is not fair in its definition and presentation of business development. So let's set the record straight. Managing companies does requires taking business decisions 'you have to make' with other businesses. It is not an option. Saying 'all these benefits are nice to have but are not core to the existing strategy of the the target partner' is misleading. Proper BD is precisely the opposite, your have to take into account the core strategy of the target businesses to make it a success. Saying 'Consequently, BD may be ultimately harder to succeed in since it requires a lot of faith and time' -> BD is not preaching or based on beliefs, it relies on sound financial and strategic analysis. BD serves a very different purpose than sales (long term vs short term revenues) and both are equally important beyond the start-up stage.