Apple Case Analysis

1. How well has Steve Jobs done as Apple’s CEO? Has he done a good job of performing the five tasks of strategic management discussed in Chapter 2? Why or why not? What grade would you give him?

Steve Jobs has done an amazing job of performing the five tasks of strategic management. I would give him an A. Under his leadership, Apple has not only turned continuous loss to profit, but became a major player in both MP3 player industry and computer industry. Jobs and his management team have a clear vision and objectives for Apple at all organizational levels.

Developing a strategic vision

Introducing innovative, high-quality consumer electronics to the masses” and “impressive performance and leadership in innovation into the future”

Core Value

* Innovation

* Top-notch quality

* Easy to use

* seamless integration

Setting objectives

* Short term: Turn around Apple financially

* Long-term : Become a market leader in consumer electronics

Objectives at all levels

* Finance

* Production R&D

* Marketing

* Distribution

* Technology

* C/S

Crafting a Strategy

Corporate Strategy

Emphasis on R&D and strategic acquisition to grow

Business Strategy

Leverage its unique ability to provide customers with easy-of-use, seamless integration, and innovative products and services

Strategy at all levels

* Finance

* Production R&D

* Marketing

* Distribution

* Technology

* C/S

Implementing the Strategy

Short-term:

Corporate Governance

New board of directors

Marketing: Aggressive advertising campaign

Strategic Alliance with Microsoft

Distribution: Ended licensing agreement and started direct to consumers over the web and by phone

Monitoring, evaluating, and making correction

Long Term:

Corporate Governance

Structural changes to ridding unprofitable segments

Production Innovation

Position iMac in lower-end market; iPod, iTunes, iPhone, iPad...