Strategy in Practice Assignment #2

Chapter 4

EVALUATING A COMPANY'S RESOURCES,

CAPABILITIES, AND COMPETITIVENESS

Perform a detailed SWOT analysis of Netflix. Please compose your SWOT analysis in continuous prose form (i.e. essay format). (40 points)

Following the SWOT analysis that you create, please answer the following questions as thoroughly as possible. Remember to fully develop your written responses; leave nothing to assumption in the mind of the reader.

1. Discuss the ways by which Netflix achieves competitive advantage. What are Netflix's core competencies? How well do these competencies satisfy the four characteristics of VRIN? How does Netflix leverage these core competencies to attract and please customers? (20 points)

2. Netflix faces competition from Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube Premium, and many other opposing services. Select two rivals and describe how Netflix compares and contrasts to these two rivals. (10 points)

3. As a consumer, evaluate your personal Netflix (or Netflix-type) experience. What changes could Netflix (or a cord-cutting service of your choice) make to better serve its current customers? What strategies should Netflix (or your selected cord-cutting service) adopt in order to attract new customers? (10 points)

4. The streaming content landscape continues to evolve, with several new entrants poised to soon enter the market. Most prominent among these potential newcomers are Apple and Disney. Choose one of these two firms and list at least four strategies that the company can employ to create distinctive competencies designed to differentiate its streaming service from that of Netflix. Include in your response an explanation of how these sources of differentiation can help the firm gain a competitive advantage in the market. (20 points)