At the beginning of the case, the author builds a case for 3M's outstanding performance as an
Question:
At the beginning of the case, the author builds a case for 3M's outstanding performance as an innovative company. What evidence does he give?
What early product breakthroughs shaped 3M's approach to innovation, and who were the scientists responsible?
What policy did McKnight put 1nto place after his company almost missed out on an important breakthrough?
3M has used both decentralized and centralized approaches to research and development. What are the advantages of each and how do they get the best of both worlds?
Over the years, 3M has set up a number of organizations and programs to harness the innovation of its people. Name and describe four of them. (3M Technical Forum, Patent Money, Genesis Grants, Pacing Plus Program)
What does "getting behind the smokestack" mean, and how is it put into practice?
What are the "dual career tracks" the case refers to and why were they put into place?
What mistake did the company make with copiers?
Describe 3M's approach to international innovations and expansion?
Describe each of the following presidents. When was this person president, what background experience did he bring, and what events, strengths, and weaknesses characterized his time as a president of 3M? DeSimone, McNerney, Buckley, Thulin. (Thulin was new at the time of the case. See if he is still president and what else you can find out about him.)
Analyze 3M using the VRIO framework on pages 81-85 of the text. Which do you think is the most important for 3M.
What are the building blocks of GM's competitive advantage (as described on pages 94-98)? How unique and durable do you think their advantage is?
International Marketing And Export Management
ISBN: 9781292016924
8th Edition
Authors: Gerald Albaum , Alexander Josiassen , Edwin Duerr