case study notes Flashcards
(30 cards)
how did Ningbo smarter logistics (NSL) overcome its resources limitations?
- formed strategic partnership with IBM
- leveraged IBM technology and expertise
- combined IBMs tech with NSL’s local expertise
- gained capabilities through collaboration
what role did the local government play in NSL’s strategy?
Initiated smart-city logistics project
Encouraged IBM to collaborate with local ventures
Provided support and a ready market for NSL
Why did NSL focus on seafood transportation for its pilot project?
Chose niche market to demonstrate technology
Developed cloud-based solution for seafood logistics
Built credibility before scaling to other cargo types
what is IKEA’s core competitive strategy?
Cost leadership with elements of differentiation
offers stylish, functional furniture at low prices
utilises flat-pack design to reduce costs
how does IKEA’s value chain contribute to its competitive advantage?
controls entire value chain from design to retail
owns manufacturing and distribution networks - vertical integration
achieves economies of scale and consistency
what factors underpin IKEA’s global success?
Scandinavian design identity
one stop shopping experience
immersive showrooms and family friendly stores
how does industry fragmentation affect IKEA strategy?
operates in a fragmented market with local competitors
leverages global scale to outcompete smaller rivals
difficult for new entrants to match IKEA’s integrated model
what resources and capabilities give H&M a competitive edge?
strong brand with “cheap and chic” concept
efficient global supply chain
in-house design team and designer collaborations
how does H&M value chain differ from Zara’s?
outsources production to low-cost manufacturers - non-integration
focuses on cost efficiency over speed
stores serve as primary customer touchpoints
what external threats challenge H&M’s market position?
competition from Zara and ultra low cost retailers - rivalry
rise of online only fashion retailers - substitutes
changing consumer preferences and digital disruption - sociocultural and technological
How is H&M adapting its strategy to sustain competitiveness?
Investing in technology and infrastructure
Enhancing e-commerce and omnichannel presence
emphasising sustainability and circular fashion
what is Ryannair’s cost business strategy?
ultra low-cost leadership
operates with minimal amenities
focuses on cost reduction in all operations
how do Ryannairs internal capabilities support its strategy?
single aircraft model for efficacy
high aircraft utilization rates
strong cost management culture
what led to the launch of the “always getting better” program
increased competition from airlines offering better service
negative public perception and customer dissatisfaction
need to improve customer experience without raising costs
how did the “always getting better” initiative change Ryanairs capabilities?
Introduced allocated seating and relaxed baggage rules
improved website and mobile app functionality - technological improvements
hired marketing and PR professionals to enhance brand image - aids in brand loyalty and returning consumers
what industry forces make the pharmaceutical sector challenging?
high R&D costs and long term development timelines - technological
intense competition for patents and innovation - rivalry
stringent government regulations - legal
pricing pressure - economic
how do patent expirations impact pharmaceutical companies?
loss of exclusivity leads to generic competition
significant revenue declines post-patent expiry
Necessitates continuous innovation and pipeline development
why do governments have strong bargaining power in pharma?
act as primary buyers through national healthcare systems
implement price controls and reimbursement limits
influence market access and profitability
how are pharma companies adapting their strategies?
engaging in M&A to bolster pipelines
expanding into emerging markets for growth
investing in specialty drugs and personalized medicine
why is IKEA’s design function a VRIO resource?
value: creates low cost, stylish products that attract customers
rare: few competitors blend Scandinavian design with cost efficiency
inimitable: flat pack system and streamlined supplier networks are hard to replicate
organised: integrated R&D, production and distribution structures capture value
How does Ryanairs cost discipline satisfy VRIO criteria?
value: enables lowest fare positioning
rare: few airlines match its single fleet, high-utilization model
inimitable: culture of extreme cost control eg no frills policies
organized: flat hierachy and processes reinforce cost focus
in what way is H&M fast fashion network a VRIO asset?
value: rapid trend response boosts sales
rare: global scale of trend-spotting
combined with low prices
inimitable: long-standing vendor relationships and logistics expertise
organized: centralized design and decentralized procurement align execution
how does supplier power influence Ningbo Smarter Logistics
ports: IBM as dominant tech supplier -> high switching costs
local SMEs: fragmented, low bargaining power
overall: NSL depends on IBM, raising supplier power risk
why do buyer have significant power over ryanair?
many alternative low cost carriers
price sensitive customer willing to switch for small service gains
online channels increase price transparency
