Active tournament player here, FIDE 2100. They key point to remember here is that computers are able to avoid the tactical pitfalls that humans cannot. In other words, they can see all the possible outcomes within a given number of moves. The fewer the pieces, the farther ahead they calculate and play perfectly. Indeed there are databases of up to 7 pieces that are used for perfect play.

Humans cannot see as far as a computer, but they don't need to do so. Grandmasters recognize over 10,000 common positions (after the opening phase) and their strategies based on experience and study. This allows them "know" the probable outcome of a given move far beyond that of a computer. The problem arises when the complexity of a position grows to a point that tactics > position. Human players avoid these positions when playing computers. Strong human players aim for these positions when playing a weaker opponent. And computers can be programmed for "anti-human" strategies that create these complications.

Kasparov was aware of all these variables, but underestimated the tactical ability of the machine. And, ultimately failed, because he fell for a well-known trap in the opening during the last game. The computer was programmed with a database that included the trap. Kasparov was too - with his memory - but unlike silicon, simply forgot for a moment and made the fatal move that sealed the match.

What does the mean for business? A superior long-term strategy that anticipates short-term problems trumps a short-term strategy that knows all the immediate outcomes but neglects to consider the end game.