Case Analysis - Apple and Sony

Strategy Evaluation and Implementation

Executive Summary

Strategy implementation is a series of activities necessary for the execution of a plan. We require programs, budgets and procedures to comply with the strategies and hence the process of strategy implementation takes place. The number of strategies that are successfully implemented is very low, almost as low as 10 %. studies show that half of all acquisitions fail to achieve what was expected of them, and 1 out of 4 international ventures do not succeed. Strategy implementation is directly related to the work of plant managers, division managers, department managers, sales managers, product managers, project managers, personnel managers, staff managers, supervisors and all employees. This report outlines the organizational overview of both the companies in focus; Apple and Sony. After a small of description of what their business is all about I have discussed their individual business strategies, and what ups and downs they have gone through over the past few years. Then there is a comparison of how they compete with each other and how they come with different ideas to cope with the new and latest technologies. Finally there is a conclusion which highlights their expected business strategies in the next 10 years. The field of technology is constantly going through changes. In spite of near limitless opportunity for growth, there are still numerous obstacles which threaten the continued success and stability of the technology industry as a whole. Even with its current standing as a media and technological front-runner, Apple still faces threats not only from competitors within the technology field, but like every corporation, market forces as well.

Case Analysis - Apple and Sony

Background Information

Apple Inc

Apple Inc. (Apple or "the company") is engaged in design, development and marketing of personal computers, media devices, and portable digital music players. The company also sells a variety of related software, services, peripherals, networking solutions, and third-party digital content and applications. The company primarily operates in the US. It is headquartered in Cupertino, California and employed 63,300 people by the end of September 1, 2011 of which 60,400 are employed full time. The company recorded revenues of $108,249 million during the fiscal year ended September 2011 (FY2011), an increase of 66% over FY2010. The operating profit of the company was $33,790 million during FY2011, an increase of 83.8% over FY2010. The net profit was $25,922 million in FY2011, an increase of 85% over FY2010.

Apple Inc. designs, manufactures and markets personal computers (PCs), mobile communication devices and portable media players. The company's products include the Mac line of desktop and laptop computers, the iPhone smartphone, the iPod line of media players and the iPad tablet computer. Apple's products are known for their ease of use and proprietary software. Apple was cofounded by Steve Jobs, who died in October 2011. Apple's products reflect a "walled garden" design philosophy, in which the user experience is carefully managed by Apple. Apple controls about 19.2% of the Computer Manufacturing industry and is expected to post a ...