1. Why did Sony push back introduction of the OLED television? What was the advantage in waiting? What were the drawbacks? Was there a threat of moving to market with new technology too fast? How might the delayed introduction affect Sony’s reputation among consumers, enthusiasts, and Sony’s own R&D personnel?
2. What competitive threats does Sony face? From which companies and geographic regions? How does Sony stack up against these competitors?
3. Is it possible for a diversified company like Sony to be an innovation leader and stay profitable? What does its recent company performance suggest?
4. Should Sony’s R&D efforts be focused on a limited number of “core” products, or should it aim to be an innovation leader in each single business sub-segment that it has? Do you think Sony should subsidize the unsuccessful R&D efforts that produce products which do not turn profits?
5. Do you think excessive diversification is Sony’s problem? Do you think the problem is that Sony’s products are targeting the upscale high-income consumer group, when most consumers are looking for cheap affordable goods? Why or why not?