Subject category:
Strategy and General Management
Published by:
IBS Center for Management Research
Length: 23 pages
Data source: Published sources
Abstract
The turnaround of IBM under Louis V Gerstner''s leadership is considered to be one of the most remarkable turnarounds in corporate history. The case details the strategic measures taken by Gerstner to transform IBM from a hardware vendor to a complete IT solutions provider. The case examines IBM''s new ''services-heavy'' business model and its potential benefits for the company in future. It also details the issues facing the new CEO of IBM - Sam Palmisano and the measures taken by him in 2002 and 2003 to boost IBM''s stagnant revenues and declining profits. The case is structured to enable students to: (1) understand the need to continuously reinvent the business model of a company amidst rising competition and changes in the business environment; (2) examine the strategic measures taken by a leader to turnaround a loss making company; (3) study IBM''s business segments and conduct a BCG analysis; and (4) discuss the position of IBM in its various business segments vis-a-vis its competitors. The case is targeted at MBA/PGDBA students and is intended to be part of the strategy and general management curriculum. The teaching note does not contain an analysis of the case.
About
Abstract
The turnaround of IBM under Louis V Gerstner''s leadership is considered to be one of the most remarkable turnarounds in corporate history. The case details the strategic measures taken by Gerstner to transform IBM from a hardware vendor to a complete IT solutions provider. The case examines IBM''s new ''services-heavy'' business model and its potential benefits for the company in future. It also details the issues facing the new CEO of IBM - Sam Palmisano and the measures taken by him in 2002 and 2003 to boost IBM''s stagnant revenues and declining profits. The case is structured to enable students to: (1) understand the need to continuously reinvent the business model of a company amidst rising competition and changes in the business environment; (2) examine the strategic measures taken by a leader to turnaround a loss making company; (3) study IBM''s business segments and conduct a BCG analysis; and (4) discuss the position of IBM in its various business segments vis-a-vis its competitors. The case is targeted at MBA/PGDBA students and is intended to be part of the strategy and general management curriculum. The teaching note does not contain an analysis of the case.