In the context of sustainable competitive advantage, nonsubstitutable resources cannot be replaced by:

Nonsubstitutable resources are unique assets or capabilities that cannot be easily replaced or replicated by other resources to deliver similar value. This characteristic contributes significantly to a firm's ability to maintain a sustainable competitive advantage in the marketplace. When these resources cannot be substituted, they create a distinct advantage for the firm, as competitors cannot find alternative means that provide the same benefits or effectiveness.

The notion of nonsubstitutability highlights the importance of having exclusive access to certain resources that provide specific strategic advantages. For example, a patented technology or a highly skilled workforce cannot simply be replaced with other resources without a loss of value, differentiation, or effectiveness.

This quality is crucial in strategic management because firms that possess nonsubstitutable resources can better withstand competitive pressures, maintain higher profitability, and create barriers to entry for potential competitors. Thus, the correct understanding of nonsubstitutable resources indicates that they provide value that cannot be fully replicated through other alternatives, establishing a critical component of lasting competitive advantage.