Greetings.  While we're on the topic of what it takes to stand out from the pack, find time to read and think about Seth Godin's blog and his post yesterday on how companies can create sustainable competitive advantage:

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2009/10/creating-sustainable-competitive-advantage.html

If you're not familiar with Seth, his blog, or his many books, I think you will really enjoy them.  He is a very insightful marketer with a real gift for understanding and explaining how to connect with customers and how to build a powerful and valued brand.  If I could put even five percent of his ideas into practice, I would be viewed as a real genius.

Cheers!