This week we look at the issues around matching a firm's competitive advantage with opportunity. In other

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This week we look at the issues around matching a firm's competitive advantage with opportunity. In other words, how do firms leverage what they are good at with new situations, such as opportunities or challenges, in ways that enhance their performance or lead to success? This week has two (2) readings that consider this question. The first is "Uber targets trucking with new trailer rental business," while the second is "Will tech leave Detroit in the dust?" In both cases, a firm or group of firms is trying to leverage their current skills and capabilities into a new situation to improve their business model and performance. The specific questions are:

(1) Earlier in the course, we considered skills, capabilities, distinctive competence, and competitive advantage as the basis for a successful strategy. In the article "Uber targets trucking with new trailer rental business," what is Uber leveraging to enter the trucking business? Based on what you know about Uber and the trucking business, how would you describe Uber's propensity for success in this effort? Will they be successful? What competitive advantage(s) can they leverage? What challenges will they face?

(2) As we continue the thread of leveraging competitive advantage, the article, "Will tech leave Detroit in the dust?" considers a more challenging situation. What is your opinion about "who will control the future of transportation?" What is the rationale for your view? What competitive advantages do you expect successful companies to possess? Which companies will succeed and why? Which companies will fail and why?