Description
Introduction
The idea of innovation as a leading strategy has complemented the competitive advantage strategy. There are issues with getting to the top of an industry by innovating and then falling behind to rising competitors. Collectively, these issues are known as the innovator’s dilemma, and technology companies have been fighting tooth and nail to avoid falling victim to this problem (as have many other industries). One way to avoid this dilemma is by maintaining a high level of cash and simply acquiring the innovating companies. From 2007 through 2009, Google acquired 24 companies (that were disclosed) and Microsoft acquired 34.
Finally, as globalization makes the world a real global economy, the focus of strategy must go beyond the borders of your own country. Technology has enabled even small companies of just a few people to outsource work to the other side of the world. A global view will be essential to any twenty-first century strategy.
Reading Assignment
Amadeo, K. (2021, March 30). Comparative advantage theory and examples. https://www.thebalance.com/comparative-advantage-3305915
Christensen, C. (n.d.). Disruptive Innovation. https://claytonchristensen.com/key-concepts/
Optional Video
Harvard Business Review. (2019, July 9). The explainer: How to be a disruptor. [Video] YouTube. https://youtu.be/aMsvWmvTmxw
Discussion Assignment
Review the material on Disruptive Innovation. Then, do your own research on a recent disruptive innovator.
Finally, go to the discussion forum for Unit 7 and engage in a dialogue with your classmates by answering the following questions:
1. Provide an example of a firm which has been a disruptive innovator. What role does technology play in disruptive innovation?
2. What is the greatest risk of being a disruptive innovator for an organization? How must the firm consider the actions of its rivals?
3. How might government try to limit the effects of disruptive innovation? Provide a specific example of when a technology tool was limited or disabled by a government.
Your Discussion should be at least 250 words in length, but not more than 750 words. Use APA citations and references for the textbook and any other sources used.
You are expected to make at least three posts to the discussion forum during the course of the discussion period.
Written Assignment
Reflect on the resources this week on Disruptive Innovation you have not already researched. To help you select a firm, you may want to research leaders in technology. Analyze how they have built new markets successfully, based on Harvard Business School’s Clayton M. Christensen’s theory on Disruptive Innovation. Define comparative advantage. What is the organization’s comparative advantage in general? Evaluate the strength of their comparative advantage in the global marketplace.
Prepare a two-page (double-spaced) essay. The paper should be 12-point font, Times New Roman, be at least 500 words, and include a final source list.
Learning Journal
Students should document their activities, record problems they may have encountered and draft answers for Discussion Forums and Assignments. In addition, the student should consider the following questions for reflection: In your own life, what ways have you been a “disruptive innovator? At what times was it better to conform? What lessons can you draw from your own experience which may apply to businesses in your country?
