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Published by: Harvard Business Publishing
Originally published in: 1997
Version: 7 May 1997
Length: 16 pages
Data source: Field research

Abstract

In late 1994, James Down, member of Mercer''s Executive Committee, has to decide whether or not he should push ahead with the writing and publication of a book on growth--at a time when the more successful business publications focus on reengineering and cost cutting. He sees this as an opportunity to position Mercer in the consulting market and align the organization--itself a result of several mergers--around a common platform. He is facing resistance within the firm, however, especially from the firm''s European offices, which see little need for this knowledge product. Proceeding without Europe could result in an incomplete product and a divided firm. If he waits, though, he may miss a critical market window. The case provides early versions of the growth framework.; The product in this case is built from the firm''s knowledge assets, and is very different from manufactured hardware or software. Students are asked to assess the process of compiling materials for the book and selling the effort internally. Students are expected to evaluate the risks and opportunities of going ahead and recommend a course of action for Down.

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Abstract

In late 1994, James Down, member of Mercer''s Executive Committee, has to decide whether or not he should push ahead with the writing and publication of a book on growth--at a time when the more successful business publications focus on reengineering and cost cutting. He sees this as an opportunity to position Mercer in the consulting market and align the organization--itself a result of several mergers--around a common platform. He is facing resistance within the firm, however, especially from the firm''s European offices, which see little need for this knowledge product. Proceeding without Europe could result in an incomplete product and a divided firm. If he waits, though, he may miss a critical market window. The case provides early versions of the growth framework.; The product in this case is built from the firm''s knowledge assets, and is very different from manufactured hardware or software. Students are asked to assess the process of compiling materials for the book and selling the effort internally. Students are expected to evaluate the risks and opportunities of going ahead and recommend a course of action for Down.

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