THE CASE STUDY OF APPLE INC.

The Case Study of Apple Inc

The Case Study of Apple Inc.

Task 1:

Apple computer introduced their first computer, the Apple I, in 1976. The company was started by two high school friends, Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs, when they collaborated to sell Steve Wozniak's invention. The company has survived the booms and the busts of the computer industry through new innovations in both software and hardware that has differentiated itself from its competitors. Apple's current strategy is to sell its "Mac" products to customers who aren't satisfied with traditional "IBM" compatible personal computers. Apple looks for customers who want a computing alternative that doesn't rely on computers that are run by Microsoft software programs. Apple has targeted educational institutions and businesses that want something different than the standard IBM clone. Apple has focused on selling the low end eMac to schools and the high end PowerMac to the multimedia industry. Apple has segmented its product lines into portable and desktop computers. Both of these segments are furthermore segmented into upper and lower lines which are reflected in their selling price.

a) the significant macro-economic and general environmental factors affecting your focal organisation (or SBU) and profiling key competitors.

Apple has also created a line of software to accompany its hardware. However, the Apple software and operating systems can only be used on Apple equipment. Apple's operating systems for it's servers is compatible with Windows, Unix, and Linux. Apple distributes its products through company controlled retail stores, online sales, and though an exclusive store-in-store program with CompUSA. Apple has continued to maintain distribution with a few of its traditional regional retailers. Target and Best Buy offer Apple iPods in their stores. Dell also offers iPods for Windows through its website. (Sharma, 2008)

Apple has maintained about 5% of the market share in the personal computer market for the past four years. Through the years, Apple has a long history of innovation in the personal computer market. However Apple is faced with the fact that any increase in market share is going to come from customers who "switch" from computers that use the Windows based operating system. Apple has positioned itself to attack Microsoft in the software market by the promotion of its new "Switchers" campaign. This program is designed to promote the ease of using Apple products for those who are considering changing from Microsoft to Apple products. However, Apple hasn't realized significant success in the campaign.

b) the key features of the organisation's (or SBU's) strategic behaviour that are influencing its performance and industry structure.

Apple enjoyed success in the education niche market during the 1980s and 1990s. However, it has recently been losing substantial market share to Dell who is now leading that niche. It has been noted that many teachers prefer Apple products for their needs. But many parents question the reasoning for not using computers that are compatible with Microsoft products, which are traditionally used in the home and at work.

Apple has been losing its competitive advantage for years ...