Cisco Case Study

MISU301

November 27, 2006

Cisco Case

1) Cisco’s Business and Market

a) What are their two main products and explain what the products do? Check Exhibit 3.

1. Routers

-acted as translators

-connected computers to the internet

2. Switches

-device used to decide where information is sent next

b) What do Cisco’s commercial customers use Cisco’s products for?

-gain access to internet

-connect with buyers and manufacturers

c) Which department within these companies buys, installs and maintains the products?

The IT department within these companies buys, installs and maintains the products.

d) What is the background of the individuals that buy, install and maintain Cisco’s equipment?

The individuals that buy these products are very knowledgeable in technology and its advancement.

e) Given the types of individuals involved what are some key requirements for Cisco’s products?

Cisco needs to offer products that are advanced, up-to-date, and somewhat unique.

f) Has the company been successful and give some measures to support your position? What was the key external driver of their growth?

The company has been successful, ranking in the top-five companies in Return on Revenues and Return on Assets.

The key external driver was the fact that the internet was quickly booming.

g) Given this driver what was Cisco’s critical business goal/challenge?

Cisco’s business goal/challenge:

-assemble a broad product line for all customers

-have acquisitions of other companies

-create products that set standards for networking

-choose the right partners

2) IT Infrastructure

a) What enterprise system was implemented, for what reasons and why was this done first?

Enterprise Resource Planning was implemented because:

- the old system would not be...