...What, historically, have been Apple’s competitive advantages? From the beginning, customer loyalty has been one of Apple’s competitive advantages. Apple owners were much more attached to their Apple computers than PC users. Early on Apple pushed into the publishing and education markets. They were able to grab half the market for education. Their computers were easy to use, had sharp designs, and high quality. Apple also used a plug and play system with all its own peripherals as a major advantage. But with their own hardware and software, Apple’s computers were very slow and came with very few compatible programs. After Steve Jobs came back to the company, he instilled strong teams and leadership. He put the focus back on innovation by increasing R&D. He also establish Apple’s original strategy of premium products and customer service. He then introduces a website to set up direct sales with customers. Jobs partnered with Microsoft and added USB connectors to become more compatible with other applications and software systems. This eliminated a huge disadvantage Apple previously had. Apple products are also harder to duplicate and substitute because of it’s own proprietary design. Industry foresight has been a huge competitive advantage of Apple. Their innovation has shaped the consumer electronics industry. It has also kept competitors on their toes. Apple sets the standards for the industry. With their customer loyalty, Apple has become a strong brand name. They have...
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...original though to try build the foundation of apple company. When entering in the late 1990s, the computer out from the laboratory as well as some important institutions to enter the market for personal use, then the computer began to uncover the mystery of it, and the explosive growth stages. And Apple has not been the market during the impetuous move, still adheres to a dozen years, we insist on doing their own technologies and platforms. 2) The independent technology to create a completely independent operating platform. MAC system use different subcode with any other system like android and Microsoft, which is extremely difficult to crack. Of course you can see Apple's products are also constantly increased, from MAC, iPhone, ipad and so on, until the iTV, etc., will continue to be unique in the field of information technology. 3) Apple's marketing model seemingly unique tradition but also advance. Apple different marketing tools used in conjunction with local conditions. Clearly it can be seen in the United States it is a populist image, consumers can enjoy Apple brought the trend of breath at the first time. 2. Analyze the personal computer industry. Are the dynamics favorable or problematic for Apple? Apple computer business was first carried out in a professional design and other fields for the user a high degree of recognition. When entering the PC market, it captures exactly what the consumer trend of breath. Due to the current PC machine industry...
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...electron1ics, computer software, online services, and personal computers. Its best-known hardware products are the Mac line of computers, the iPod media player, the iPhone smartphone, and the iPad tablet computer. Its online services include iCloud, iTunes Store, and App Store. Apple's consumer software includes the OS X and iOS operating systems, the iTunes media browser, the Safari web browser, and the iLife and iWork creativity and productivity suites.” * Apple generates revenue through many mediums. Consumer electronics is by far generating most of its revenue. Of course, it’s worth mentioning that with just one of its products, the IPhone, generating 50% of its revenue. It also generates revenue through its Apple Mac Sales, IPad, and IPod, IPod accessories, ITunes and App store and of course it’s AppleCare services. We will focus mainly on the specific consumer electronics mentioned below when describing its financial, competitive, and environmental areas. * Products & Services: * Consumer Electronics: 1976 April 01 the first apple computer was introduced. With a home built computer circuit board as its first product for sale, it has since grown internationally and generated many innovative products. A few products that have surfaced are the infamous IPhone, IPad, and IPod. * Total Sales of said products (in millions of units): 2009- 2010- 2011- 2012-...
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...apple computer 2012 Apple Computer 2012 1. What, historically, have been Apple’s major competitive advantages? Early on, although not always profitable, Apple Computer was known for their unique products. A quote worth noting from an analyst, “the majority of IBM and compatible users ‘put up’ with their machines, but Apple’s customers ‘love’ their Macs.” This is truer knowing what Steve Jobs strives to achieve with the company as well as the employees. Job was especially fanatic about industrial design, simplicity, and product elegance. The employees love working for Jobs, however it is very difficult. The employees connect with the passion that Jobs has in this work ethic. “My passion has been to build an enduring company where people were motivated to make great products. Everything else was secondary.” Overall, a strong leader in Jobs and Cook has been an advantage of Apple as well as their well-groomed employees who are handpicked by Jobs. Another historical advantage that Apple has is their use of vertical integration. Since they make all the aspects to their products, doing so adds great value to the company and therefore provides a strategic and competitive advantage. 2. Analyze the structure of the personal computer industry using Porter’s Five Forces. Are these dynamics favorable or problematic for Apple? Bargaining power of buyers In terms of technology: PCs, smartphones, and tablets, the product lines of different companies need to be unique. Buyers have...
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...Business Analysis Part I Pamela Lewis Management 521 October 10, 2011 Dr. Melanie Brown Business Analysis Part I The company tasked a mutual fund manager to evaluation Apple Incorporated to determine if this would be a sound investment for the company. The mutual funds manager will conduct a business analysis on Apple Incorporated and present the recommendations to the company. Apple Inc. is a company known for its vibrant line of products and the innovation it brings to those products. A business analysis is the practice of diagnosing the needs of a business and establishing solutions to business dilemmas. This business analysis is simply a collection of information that will aid in deciding if Apple Incorporated has the stability to sustain a profitable portfolio. This analysis will include a SWOTT analysis, an evaluation of the company stakeholders and their needs and wants, and an explanation of how the company is fulfilling those needs. SWOTT Analysis Chart Strengths (Internal) | Weaknesses (Internal) | * Strong brand image provides and edge over competitors * Robust financial performance strengthens investors’ confidence and provides capital for future avenues * Focused Research and Development driving innovation and consolidating its market position | * Patent infringement lawsuit may affect financial condition and operating results * Product recalls may harm Apple’s reputation and add significant warranty and other expenses | Opportunities...
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...business in strategic management (Wheelen, Hunger, Hoffman, & Bamford, 2015). To put this into perspective; the following is an EFAS table for Apple Inc.: Apple Inc. EFAS Table | External Factors | Weight | Rating | Weighted Score | Remarks | OPPORTUNITIES | | | | | High demand of iPad mini, iPhone 6 and 6 plus and Apple watch | 0.1 | 5 | 0.5 | The uptake of these new products has been good and is proving to be an additional source of revenue for Apple. | Growth of tablet and Smartphone markets | 0.09 | 5 | 0.45 | The company is well positioned and a market leader in the adoption of these new technologies. | iTV launch | 0.08 | 3 | 0.24 | This new service is picking up gradually but is not a main focus item for Apple’s management now. | Emergence of the new provider of application processors | 0.11 | 4 | 0.44 | This will impact the pricing of products as it means Apple can get optional suppliers for the processors currently supplied by Samsung. | Obtaining patents through acquisitions | 0.06 | 1 | 0.06 | Apple is a research and development focused company and thus does not rely so much on acquisitions to acquire patents. | Strong growth prospects of mobile advertising market and iAD launch | 0.06 | 3 | 0.18 | This is a new service that poses great growth potential thus there is moderate focus on it as it presents an opportunity to realize growth in revenues. | THREATS | | | | | Price increases for key components | 0.11 | 4 | 0.44 |...
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...rP os t W14161 APPLE INC.: MANAGING A GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN 1 Ken Mark wrote this case under the supervision of Professor P. Fraser Johnson solely to provide material for class discussion. The authors do not intend to illustrate either effective or ineffective handling of a managerial situation. The authors may have disguised certain names and other identifying information to protect confidentiality. op yo This publication may not be transmitted, photocopied, digitized or otherwise reproduced in any form or by any means without the permission of the copyright holder. Reproduction of this material is not covered under authorization by any reproduction rights organization. To order copies or request permission to reproduce materials, contact Ivey Publishing, Ivey Business School, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada, N6G 0N1; (t) 519.661.3208; (e) cases@ivey.ca; www.iveycases.com. Copyright © 2014, Richard Ivey School of Business Foundation INTRODUCTION Version: 2014-06-12 tC Jessica Grant was an analyst with BXE Capital (BXE), a money management firm based in Toronto. 2 It was February 28, 2014, and Grant was discussing her U.S. equity mandate with BXE’s vice president, Phillip Duchene. Both Grant and Duchene were trying to identify what changes, if any, they should make to BXE’s portfolio. “Apple is investing in its next generation of products, potentially the first new major product lines since Tim Cook took over from Steve Jobs,” she...
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...importance through empowerment. A great example would be making a separate line of those buyers who were the first to buy its phone. Additionally, it can also attract book worms and geeks by promoting their relevant applications- educating customers and creating awareness about how eBooks can resolve the issues of students and reading enthused. The last opportunity would be that of attracting and targeting the older customer base of the, population which has present Apple with one of the most promising marketing opportunities. This marketing opportunity can be classified as low hanging fruit as it only requires few modifications to the existing product or profiling of the existing target market and collection of useful information for future prospects (Bodnar, 2010). According to a research survey conducted by AdMob it has been proven that people belonging to the age group of 55 and above presents a market that is more lucrative that the 16 and 24 years age group. The older age group has money, inclination and value good quality and is prepared to pay any price for it. Exploring...
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...that designs, manufactures, and sells iPod, iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Over the years Apple has made drastic strides. A little bit more of an introduction into why Apple and factors covered would have better prepared the reader. Globalization Globalization definitely has evolved into an essential factor for big business organizations to exceed above the competitors. In the 1970’s the creation of an electronic device known to us now as a computer, would have come out of a garage to being a media mogul company that is worth millions. Globalization had a huge impact to Apple’s income. Financial statements display that Apple’s worldwide sales take the lead in technology sales and are ongoing to increase. This shows they have exceptional global management an example of that is, Apple had been attempting to market their products in Korea with the merchandise for many years. Only now are they able to have a product in their market that is acceptable to the MPEG-1 Layer 3 advances. So availability of technology is a factor for consideration for the plan as it allows or limits growth in a region? This allowed them to open up Apple stores in the Korean country. Part of the strategy was that Apple found the best areas in various countries to start new stores and has grown a worldwide organization. Globalization has been a significant force in Apple’s method of managing the organization while functioning in a new competitive prospect. Technology Technology is ever evolving. One of...
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...Ipad vs. Kindle When you hear the word Ipad vs. Kindle there will always be comparisons but unfortunately, there is only one, that’s better than the other. Some people read a couple of books each on the Kindle, and IPad and take notes to differentiate their experience, reading speed, eye strain and so forth. Most of them were busy with the hard task of watching movies back to back to see how long the iPad’s battery would last. Only one reviewers and critics mentions actually reading a complete book on the iPad. The Ipad and Kindle are similar in many ways. They both are hand held devices that are portable. You can read books on both. Kindle devices can also sync with iPhones as well as ipads. Both ipad and kindle software is compatible with Windows, iPhone OS, BlackBerry, and Mac. Kindle device can be used without a computer and provides free access to the internet. At first kindle devices didn’t have apps to launch but, now you can’t shop for puzzles, games, travel guides and more, just like the ipad. Finally the ipad and kindle are equipped with 3G wireless that allows quick download of books. The Ipad and kindle are different in many ways as well. Kindle has 450,000 books as compared to the iPad’s starting selection of 60,000 titles. Kindle is lighter (10.2 ounces) and you can read with one hand. Ipad is ‘much heavier’ (1.5 pounds) and ‘most people will need two hands to use it’ .Kindle has much better battery life which you can leave 2 weeks with wireless turned...
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...Case 2: Apple Inc. in 2010 The establishment of Apple Inc in its early history always was based on innovation. The founders were highly successful designers and builder , but the key to success was the abilities of the financial partner Mr. Markkula. Mr. Markkula was the key figure for gaining financial capital for the start-up business. Apple wanted to bring a computer into the market that was easily utilized by customers. Apple Computer was focused on differentiation in the beginning providing products to its consumers. Their success would eventually cause others to focus on this market of which IBM caused changes in Apple’s market Apple’s changes of CEO are easily identifiable by the company’s changes in strategy. Some strategies were internal such as reducing costs and others external were in marketing to increase brand recognition. Upon Jobs return to CEO, he clearly identified his strategy as differentiation providing the customers a product that they would only want to purchase from Apple Inc. Jobs utilized his external resources to develop partnerships with Microsoft and Intel to improve upon the Macintosh platform. Apple was very successful in this venture providing their customers with a high quality product of which they willingly paid premiums to enjoy. Apple Inc sought to provide its patrons an ability to see first-hand how their products operate through the opening of retail locations. Apple’s CEO called this the Retail Strategy which makes sense by bring...
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...The two wireless technologies that we have chosen to be implemented in the Party Plates Organization are POS-Scanners and Ipads. The point of sale scanners are hand held or can be stationary devices used to capture and read information contained in a barcode. This tool will be helpful to help mark and scan the merchandise that’s for sale. We have also chosen the Ipad. An ipad is a technical device that is basically a handheld computer. The ipad has lots of different social networking apps on it that will help us with the advertisement of the organization as well as help us keep schedules and notes on it. These devices are good for the business because they are both handheld and can travel with us wherever we go (on the go devices). They are also equipped with the latest form of modern technology. The only bad thing about the device is they can be easily lost/misplaced since they are on the go devices and a lot of computer operated systems may crash. Material deviation between actual occurrence and expectation in a performance report, which warrants management investigation. Undesirable performance is identified, and corrective action is taken on a timely basis. If the variance is favorable, the reasons therefore are also searched out, so further advantage can be taken of the situation. An example is a variance between actual cost and standard cost for labor in a standard cost accounting system. In the area of data processing, an exception report may reflect those transactions...
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...cost of these patent wars to consumers, shareholders, and investors is yet unknown, but it is increasing both business costs and product pricing. Some of the things that Apple claimed had been copied by Samsung are: the Galaxy line infringes the “Trade Dress” (which refers to design aspects that are non-essential to the function of a device) of the iPhone and iPad by using a rectangular design with rounded edges also the black borders around the Galaxy Tablet are very similar to those exhibited by the IPad; the use of small square app icons and the software used by Samsung were one of Apple's claims. I think Apple has a point with respect to software used by Samsung, but despite that does not seem to be anything more. The shape of the phone and tablet are just consumer trends, we can take as an example the controllers of the game consoles. When a company created better ergonomic controller, the trend of the other companies was to create a better and in the process tended to imitate a little of his predecessor. An Apple spokesman said “It's no coincidence that Samsung's latest products look a lot like the iPhone and iPad, from the shape of the hardware...
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...SONY XPERIA TIPO | 16000/- | SONY XPERIA TIPO DUAL | 18000/- | SONY XPERIA U | 24500/- | SONY XPERIA E | 20500/- | SONY XPERIA E DUAL | 22500/- | SONY XPERIA NEO L | 26500/- | SONY XPERIA MIRO | 24500/- | SONY XPERIA J | 27500/- | SONY XPERIA P | 33500/- | SONY XPERIA L | 34000/- | SONY XPERIA SOLA | 28500/- | SONY XPERIA GO | 30500/- | SONY XPERIA S | 45000/- | SONY XPERIA SL | 45500/- | SONY XPERIA ION | 46500/- | SONY XPERIA SP | 48000/- | SONY XPERIA ACRO S | 47500/- | SONY XPERIA T | 43000/- | SONY XPERIA TX | 46000/- | SONY XPERIA V | 44500/- | SONY XPERIA Z LTE | 73000/- | SONY XPERIA Z ULTRA | 96000/- | SAMSUNG GURU | 3300/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY POCKET | 13500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY STAR DUOS | 13500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY POCKET DUOS | 15500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY Y | 14500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY Y COLOR PLUS | 15300/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY YOUNG(Duos) | 18000/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY FIT | 18000/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY MINI | 18000/- (out of stock) | SAMSUNG GALAXY Y DUOS | 17500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY CHAT | 20000/- (out of stock) | SAMSUNG GALAXY ACE | 20500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY Y PRO DUOS | 24500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY FAME | 25000/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY ACE ADVANCE | 28500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY ACE PLUS | 24500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY ACE DUOS | 24500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY ACE 2 | 26500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY W | 24500/- | SAMSUNG GALAXY S DUOS | 26000/- | SAMSUNG...
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...Marketing Mix Analysis of iPad Executive Summary Managing and developing marketing mix appropriately is extremely important to firm's marketing and success. In order to marketing product successfully, the right product must be exhibited to right people at the right place, right price and right time. If a firm can manage the marketing mix successfully, as a result, it can be a source of competitive advantage for firms. Each element of the marketing mix should be analyzed and if necessary, adapted to ensure that the right balance is achieved to give the product or service the very best chance of success in the market place. Apple is a successful company and its previous product iPod has a high market share in the global market due to its brand perception and image as s high quality innovative brand. In 2010, Apple launched an innovative product – “iPad” in US, which is a tablet computer with touch screen. Even in the first launching date iPad had been sold 0.3 million units. The product no doubt is getting support of Apple’s brand image and it has changed the way to consumer lifestyle. That is why iPad is thought as a revolutionary who will arouse a wave to electronic industry. Apple’s iPad delivered the value to the customer via marketing mix tools called the 4Ps: * Product looks good and works well. * Right price. * Right place at the right time. * Successful promotion helps to a larger output. Apple followed this by innovation and introducing new...
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