One of the striking differences between large and small companies is how they approach new projects and change.

Large companies often take a significant amount of time before making a decision. Projects typically involve multiple departments and require extensive planning and approvals. While this can be frustrating for project leaders and teams, the benefit is that once a solution is implemented, it tends to be well-supported and remains in place for the long term.

In contrast, smaller companies can make decisions and implement projects quickly—sometimes with input from only a few people. While this speed can be an advantage, it often comes at the cost of long-term planning.

Smaller companies may not consider how the change will be sustained or who will be responsible for its success over time. If the effort fails, there’s often little support to recover or adapt. Small businesses can benefit by improving their implementation strategies—thinking more critically about execution, support, and long-term viability. Meanwhile, the lengthy decision-making process in larger companies can give smaller, more agile competitors an edge. They’re able to enter the market sooner, which can cost big companies opportunities and market share.

Ultimately, while large companies prioritize stability and sustainability, small companies thrive on agility and innovation. The key is finding the balance between speed and strategy.