Identify and select two global industries. If you need some guidance or inspiration, you can check out List of Industries – Global | IBISWorld https://www.ibisworld.com/global/list-of-industries/.
After selecting the two industries, identify an organization within each of those industries. For your case study, you will….
1. Provide a brief background of the industry and your two chosen organizations.
2. Compare the following elements of chosen organizations:
a. Organizational design and structure
b. Global strategies
c. Global alliances (e.g., strategies, current, etc.) and challenges in implementing
d. Joint ventures, if any.
e. Any additional information you believe is appropriate.
3. Summary (i.e., lessons gained)
Sample Answer
Analysis of Two Global Industries and their Organizations
Introduction
In today’s globalized economy, industries have become increasingly interconnected, and organizations must adapt to the challenges and opportunities of operating on a global scale. This essay will explore two global industries, their respective organizations, and compare various elements such as organizational design and structure, global strategies, global alliances, joint ventures, and additional relevant information. The two industries chosen for this case study are the pharmaceutical industry and the technology industry.
Pharmaceutical Industry
The pharmaceutical industry plays a critical role in developing and manufacturing drugs for various medical conditions. It encompasses companies involved in research, development, production, and distribution of pharmaceutical products. One organization within this industry is Pfizer Inc., a multinational pharmaceutical corporation headquartered in the United States.
Pfizer has a hierarchical organizational structure with clear lines of authority and decision-making. It operates through various business units focused on different therapeutic areas such as oncology, immunology, and rare diseases. This structure allows Pfizer to efficiently manage its research and development efforts and effectively commercialize its products globally.
In terms of global strategies, Pfizer has a strong focus on research and development, investing heavily in innovation to develop new drugs and treatments. It also pursues market expansion strategies by entering emerging markets through partnerships with local distributors and acquisitions of local companies. This approach enables Pfizer to access new patient populations and increase its global market share.
Pfizer has established several global alliances to enhance its competitive position. For example, it has partnered with BioNTech to develop and distribute a COVID-19 vaccine. Such alliances enable Pfizer to leverage the expertise and resources of its partners while expanding its global reach.
The main challenge in implementing global alliances in the pharmaceutical industry is regulatory compliance. Each country has its own regulations regarding drug development, testing, and distribution. Harmonizing these regulations across borders can be complex and time-consuming.
Pfizer has engaged in joint ventures to strengthen its position in specific markets. For instance, it formed a joint venture with GlaxoSmithKline to combine their consumer healthcare businesses. This collaboration allows both companies to benefit from shared expertise, resources, and market access.
Technology Industry
The technology industry is characterized by rapid innovation, digital transformation, and global competition. One organization within this industry is Apple Inc., a multinational technology company based in the United States.
Apple has a functional organizational structure that is divided into different departments such as hardware engineering, software development, marketing, and retail. This structure enables Apple to effectively manage its diverse product portfolio and ensure seamless integration between hardware and software components.
Apple’s global strategy revolves around product differentiation and creating a unique customer experience. It focuses on developing innovative products with sleek designs, user-friendly interfaces, and seamless integration across its ecosystem of devices. Apple’s global retail presence also contributes to its strategy by providing customers with a consistent brand experience worldwide.
In terms of global alliances, Apple has formed strategic partnerships with suppliers, manufacturers, and software developers. For example, it collaborates with Foxconn for manufacturing its devices and relies on app developers to expand the functionality of its operating systems. These alliances help Apple streamline its supply chain and enhance its product offerings.
One of the challenges in implementing global alliances in the technology industry is protecting intellectual property rights. As technology companies collaborate with various partners worldwide, there is a risk of intellectual property theft or unauthorized use. Companies like Apple must establish robust legal frameworks and safeguards to protect their innovations.
Apple has not engaged in many joint ventures as it prefers to maintain control over its product development process. However, it has made strategic acquisitions to complement its product offerings. For instance, it acquired Beats Electronics to bolster its presence in the audio market.
Summary
In summary, both Pfizer in the pharmaceutical industry and Apple in the technology industry showcase distinct organizational designs, global strategies, alliances, joint ventures, and challenges. Pfizer’s hierarchical structure enables efficient management of research efforts while pursuing market expansion strategies globally. Its global alliances and joint ventures enhance its competitive position but require navigating complex regulatory landscapes.
Apple’s functional structure facilitates effective management of diverse product offerings while focusing on product differentiation and creating a unique customer experience globally. Strategic alliances with suppliers and software developers contribute to streamlining the supply chain and enhancing product offerings. Challenges in implementing global alliances include protecting intellectual property rights.
The case studies of Pfizer and Apple provide valuable lessons on the importance of organizational design, strategic alliances, and adapting to challenges in the global marketplace. These organizations demonstrate that successful global operations require a combination of innovation, collaboration, and effective management structures.