Group Discussion #$1$: Core Competency, Quality and Process Control Chart, Apple, Inc.

Prepared by: Simone B$.$ Ezequiel C$.$ Prativa L$.$ Jaynee P$.$ Nicholas R$.$ and Daniel W$.$

Department of Business, University of Texas Permian Basin

MNGT $6320\mathrm{.}783$: Production & Operation Mngt

Submitted to Prof Dr$.$ Jiajia Qu

January $29,2024$

Core competencies are what differentiates organizations from their competitors and tend to create advantages for companies against their competitors. For a business to succeed, it needs to determine what its core competencies are going to be and be able to exploit those to stand out against its competitors. Some core competencies are subjective because some people value different benefits more than others. This clarifies why Android and Apple boast dedicated fan bases with slight variations in the offerings provided by each company.

One of the major core competencies that Apple offers is rapid innovation with technology. The camera on their iPhone is a notable example. Apple took a leap of faith when it decided to start improving the camera feature. Their main factor in moving forward was figuring out whether people would be willing to pay more money for upgraded cameras on the iPhone. It ended up paying off for them which has led to more advances on the camera itself. Safari was already the world$$s fastest desktop browser, and they chose to update it$,$ making it faster with new features. They are great at taking customer feedback and working to integrate ideas from their users into their products. Through innovation, they can bring new equipment and modern technology at a record pace. In a world where we must have everything right now, Apple does not make its customers wait excessively long for new products.

Another core competency that Apple excels in is the diversity of its product offerings. With the release of their first computer in $1976,$ Apple likely couldn$$t foresee the transformative impacts of their subsequent major devices. In $2001,$ the debut of the first$-$generation iPod took place. Before this, Apple primarily focused on personal computers and laptops. However, the widespread popularity of the iPod prompted Apple to expand its product line, introducing variations such first as the iPod mini and iPod shuffle. In $2007$ Apple took its biggest risk with the launch of the generation iPhone, alongside the Apple TV$.$ Subsequently, in $2010,$ the iPad was introduced. Apple$$s consistent innovation, with the introduction of new products every few years, has cultivated a dedicated fan base. The ability for users to connect all their Apple products has truly distinguished Apple from its competitors.

Another distinguishing core competency of Apple is its employee compensation packages. Operating as a functional organization, Apple integrates separate departments into one profit and loss $($P&L$)$ structure, facilitating of expertise alignment and business rights. Upper management bonuses are based on the performance of the company rather than product revenue, motivating employees to enhance product quality.

Certain standout features of APPLE products include water resistance, facial recognition capabilities, and an easy user interface. These attributes serve as winner qualifiers for APPLE setting its products apart in the market. It is Apple$$s innovative technology that drives consumer willingness to pay, making it the order winner in the competitive market.

Apple has effectively retained customers through its diverse range of products, a factor that has contributed significantly to its widespread user base. The ability to synchronize information across multiple devices that best suits their needs, whether for travel or daily work, ensuring that all relevant information is readily accessible. Furthermore, Apple's continuous commitment to innovation is evident in its product release following announcements at events like WWDC$.$ Their prompt product launches following these announcements ensure minimal waiting time for consumers to access new products.

Apple stores offer a unique experiential journey, attracting tech enthusiasts who enjoy in exploring the latest products from the brand. An essential aspect distinguishing Apple is their practice of keeping all development in$-$house without open sourcing, positioning their products as leaders in technological innovation. One key selling point emphasized by Apple is the simplicity and user$-$friendliness of its products.

Even though apple didn$$t invent the smartphone, the creation of the iPhone revolutionized the way the public saw smartphones. The way Apple presents its products to the public has always been a differentiator with competitors. It is not a secret that Apple quality products uphold Apple$$s edges and are the most important part of its profits. We as a team believe Apple$$s products exhibit high quality. Apple has differentiated itself from competitors and created brand value.

The level of trust the co