Summarize the Vision Trap case. Answer the following questions:

What risks did Mentor Graphics face in the start-up & development phases? Were they successful? If so, what factors led to their success?

What is the nature of the crisis confronting Mentor Graphics? What led to the "vision trap" crisis? How can there be a crisis if they were successful (that is a rhetorical question).

Describe the nature of the competitive environment in the case. Who were Mentor's anticipated competitors? How would you prepare for each of the competitive battles? Are these still appropriate?

You are now on the Board of Directors. What would you suggest for a strategy after the second and third vision failed to accomplish its intended effect? Explain your answer to the Executive Team, including your plans to recover for the long-term.

Fundamentally, what is happening to the corporation as it moves from one vision/strategy to another? What are the drawbacks to the vision changes on the company?

BONUS: Describe a model that explains the inherent nature of the choices made by the founder and executive team in light of the business environment.