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First Mover vs. Late Mover Theory

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First mover vs. late mover theory
Carzadean Lawton
MGT-680 Strategic Management
Dr. Leland Taylor
July 14, 2013

Abstract
There have been companies that have been successful at being the first to develop a new product and put it out before their competitors have a chance to copy. Some companies have proven that being the first is not always the best and the last sometimes has its perks but being last can also have its failures as well. In this report, we will analysis the advantages and disadvantages of both the first and late mover theory along with the pros and cons of the advantages and disadvantages. After the advantages and disadvantages are provided, an example of real firms who have been successful and those who have failed using each theory. Finally, a definitive and unbiased recommendation of which theory to use will be provided as well as specific attributes which constitute the most advantageous context in which the chosen theory operates.

Introduction Companies today are very competitive when it comes to development of new products and putting them out in the limelight for consumer purchase. The number one question that should be asked before a company puts a product out in the market would be is following the first-mover theory an effective way to build new business or would creating a new version of the products with the later-mover theory be a better way to build a new business? First let’s define these specific theories. The first-mover theory is a competitive advantage that a company may achieve by being the first to enter a specific market or developing a new product or service prior to rival companies (David, 2013). Being the first means that the company has the advantage to acquire superior brand recognition and customer loyalty. The company a much more time to make the product or service perfect. The late-mover theory is when a

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