DISCUSSION
In an era defined by digital disruption, globalization, and rapid market shifts, to what extent do classical strategic planning models like Porter’s Five Forces and the BCG Matrix remain relevant for multinational corporations?
You are expected to critically evaluate whether their structured, analytical nature is a strength or a limitation when compared to the adaptability of emergent strategies as described by Mintzberg’s schools of thought. Support your arguments with examples from global organizations and current business trends. Reflect on how context (e.g., industry, region, organizational culture) influences the suitability of classical vs. emergent models.
Tip for Writing: Use complete, grammatically correct sentences. Try using the MEAL format to structure your responses. Start with a clear Main idea, support it with Evidence (like readings, data, or examples), add your Analysis to explain its importance, and finish with a Closing sentence that ties it together. This will help keep your posts organized and impactful.
Important Formatting Requirements:
Your responses should be in essay format using paragraphs. Do NOT use bullet points, numbered lists, or bold text. Use only quality academic, peer-reviewed sources (preferably from CIU’s LIRN centre). Do NOT use websites, especially anything with “pedia” in the name. If your response is not in essay format, or it contains bullet points, numbered lists, or bold text, you will be ineligible for any points.
To earn full credit:
· Post an initial response of 500 words
ASSIGNMENT
Assignment Instructions
Case Study 1: Netflix vs. Blockbuster – A Tale of Strategic Evolution and the Cost of Inertia
Overview:
In the early 2000s, Blockbuster dominated the video rental industry with over 9,000 stores globally. At the same time, a fledgling company, Netflix, proposed a subscription-based model, initially focused on DVD mail delivery and later on streaming. While Netflix invested in digital transformation, data analytics, and content innovation, Blockbuster clung to its brick-and-mortar business model and late fee revenues. By 2010, Blockbuster filed for bankruptcy, while Netflix emerged as a global streaming giant and a leading content producer.
Case Questions:
- What strategic blind spots led to Blockbuster’s failure to respond to the changing business environment, and how could a dynamic capabilities framework have changed the outcome?
- Evaluate Netflix’s strategic pivot from DVD rentals to a digital streaming platform using Ansoff’s Matrix. How did innovation shape this transformation?
- If you were advising Blockbuster in 2003, what three strategic actions would you recommend to avoid decline and build a sustainable competitive advantage?
Case Study 2: Google Inc. – Strategic Policy Decisions in Innovation, Sustainability, and Global Expansion
Overview:
Google Inc., now under the umbrella of Alphabet Inc., is known for its continuous innovation, culture of experimentation, and moonshot projects. The company has expanded far beyond its core search engine to lead in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous vehicles, renewable energy investments, and digital health. However, Google also faces scrutiny over data privacy, antitrust issues, and geopolitical tensions in regions like the EU, India, and China. Balancing growth, innovation, ethics, and global compliance presents strategic dilemmas for Google’s leadership.
Case Questions:
- How does Google balance exploration (radical innovation) and exploitation (incremental innovation) in its strategic decision-making? Discuss using organizational ambidexterity.
- Critically assess how Google’s sustainability initiatives (e.g., carbon neutrality, green data centers) align with long-term strategic advantage. Is sustainability a core strategy or a reputational shield?
- In managing global expansion, how should Google navigate regulatory environments in regions with differing stances on data privacy and market monopolization?
Provide the references for these resources. Finally, you must follow APA citation and referencing guidelines throughout the paper.
Assignment Requirements:
· APA formatted 3–5 page assignment (1000–1500 words).
· At least three scholarly sources (peer-reviewed journal articles) with a minimum of five in-text citations. Use CIU’s Online Library LIRN for sources.
· A title page and a references page (not included in the word count).
Tip: Ensure your submission reflects your own academic thinking. Avoid relying on paraphrasing tools or AI-generated content.
