Ghacem in Ghana: marketing cement in a newly competitive environment

2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (5) ◽  
pp. 485-502
Author(s):  
Israel Kpekpena ◽  
Haiyan Hu
Keyword(s):  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Swot Analysis ◽  
Planning Process ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Growth Strategies ◽  
Product Packaging ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Marketing Environment ◽  
Academic Level

Theoretical basis This case study applies the scanning of marketing environment (i.e. typology of marketing environments); strategic marketing planning process, involving SWOT analysis, growth strategies; and marketing mix (four ps). Research methodology This is modeled as a qualitative study. Primary data were collected through a phone interview with the key informants, and secondary data came from various publications such as government reports, news portals and company websites. Case overview/synopsis Ghacem was the first cement manufacturing company in Ghana and had enjoyed a monopoly for almost 33 years. The company offered a homogeneous product to an undifferentiated market from 1967 until competition began in 2000. New competitors promote the use of cement grade numbers on their product packaging to signal a better value, which intensified the competition. As the Head of Marketing of the company, Benny was asked to develop a marketing strategy for the company’s newly developed product for the company to remain competitive. Complexity academic level Undergraduate students taking Principles of Marketing.

Building, leading, and sustaining a cultural enterprise: Martin Guitar in 2019

2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (4) ◽  
pp. 306-336
Author(s):  
Roland J. Kushner
Keyword(s):  
Family Business ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Public Information ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Academic Level ◽  
Fourth Decade ◽  
Upper Level ◽  
Owned Company

Theoretical basis The case includes theoretical references to family business, organizational culture, resource-based value and leadership. Research methodology The case combines primary and secondary data. There is ample public information about Martin Guitar including histories of the company and its instruments. These were used for background. Primary data were provided by the company in the form of customized data and interviews.. The case writer has served Martin Guitar as a consultant and also plays Martin instruments. The case writer had numerous opportunities to interview Chris and his key lieutenants. Case overview/synopsis In 2019, C.F. Martin IV (Chris) was in his fourth decade leading one of the America’s oldest family-owned companies, C.F. Martin & Co., Inc. Martin Guitar is a globally known maker of fine guitars that are prized by collectors, working musicians and amateur musicians. Chris was raised in the family business and took on the CEO’s position at the age of 30. The case describes the company’s management practices and the culture that has emerged from them. In 2019, at age 64, Chris confronted issues faced by his predecessors over multiple generations: how to prepare the company for succession, and maintain its strong performance as a family-owned company in a dynamic industry environment. Complexity academic level The case is designed for a management course for upper-level undergraduates.

Pay the bribe or take the high road: dilemma of a young female Tanzanian entrepreneur

2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 75-96
Author(s):  
Bella L. Galperin ◽  
Chinenye Florence Enueme ◽  
Deirdre Painter Dixon
Keyword(s):  
Cultural Practices ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Young Female ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Business Climate ◽  
Theoretical Frameworks ◽  
Business Decisions ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Academic Level ◽  
Female Entrepreneur

Theoretical basis The purpose of this paper is to raise the question of whether having ethical values dictate actions at defining moments and builds upon theoretical frameworks in ethics, entrepreneurship and national culture. Three ethical approaches recommended for this case are: ends-based, virtue-based and rules-based. Research methodology The methods of data collection were both primary and secondary. Primary data were collected through face to face and phone interviews with the primary subject. Secondary data were obtained through research journals and articles. Case overview/synopsis This case study illustrates the experiences of a young female entrepreneur in Tanzania, Africa. It investigates the role of cultural practices, unemployment, corruption and ethics in shaping business decisions. The Tanzanian culture and business climate typically view women in traditional roles, while men dominate in corporate roles. These factors limit the ability of women to succeed. Elisa King is determined to pursue her dream to create a business beneficial to her community. To realize her dream, King finds herself in an ethical dilemma brought on by an overall corrupt culture. Complexity academic level This case is appropriate for undergraduate- and graduate-level courses with an ethics component.

SHEROES: entrepreneurship by acquisitions and organic growth

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 1-21
Author(s):  
Deepa Kumari ◽  
Ashutosh Dash
Keyword(s):  
Online Community ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Growth Strategy ◽  
Growth Strategies ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Post Graduate ◽  
Academic Level ◽  
Organic Growth ◽  
Teaching Cases

Learning outcomes The students should be able to understand the potential and competitive advantage of community-based business model. The students should be able to familiarise themselves with the concept of entrepreneurship through acquisitions. The students should be able to decide when a firm should use acquisition as a key driver coupled with fewer efforts on organic growth or vice-versa. The student should be able to evaluate the success or failure acquisition as a growth strategy. The student should be able to evaluate the key metrics and other variables in the acquisition of target companies. The students should be able to wear the shoes of the protagonist and resolve the dilemma. Case overview/synopsis The teaching case looks at the dilemma of Sairee Chahal. Chahal is the founder of SHEROES, an online community for women. SHEROES started as an online career ecosystem for women. As time progressed Chahal witnessed conversations beyond career and moved towards women-centric themes. Chahal decided to pivot it into an online community for women. Her growth strategy for SHEROES has primarily been driven by serial acquisitions coupled with dispersed efforts on organic growth. In the meanwhile, Chahal had harboured an ambition to bring 100 million users to SHEROES by the year 2024. In a period spanning from 2016–2020, SHEROES acquired six niche women-centric companies. SHEROES grew to be a community of 1 million users to 20+million women users by 2020. On the other hand, the industry leader, Mogul used a diametrical approach to grow the platform into 30+million users by 2020. It had primarily used organic growth strategies such as content development, designing courses, referrals and many more. However, Chahal found herself in a dilemma when a reporter posed a question to Chahal. Chahal’s growth strategy depended on acquisitions, coupled with less effort in organic growth. Conversely, Mogul grew primarily via organic growth strategies. The reporter’s question forced her to question and revisit her growth strategies. She wondered if a target of 100 million users could be achieved with the acquisition as a major driver and less effort invested in organic growth or whether it might be better to make organic growth the key growth strategy while pushing acquisitions to the back seat. The uniqueness of the case lies in the female protagonist who is trying to build a larger-than-life community primarily via acquisitions with little effort on organic growth. Such a phenomenon has rarely been explored in teaching cases. The case is based on secondary data and the information is available in the public domain. Complexity academic level The case is designed for post-graduate students in the entrepreneurship curriculum. Within entrepreneurship, it is well-suited for use in specialised courses on “growth of an entrepreneurial venture” or “entrepreneurial strategies”. An instructor may take it up in the middle of the module as students would have familiarised themselves with various growth strategies. An instructor may use the case for a very niche course such as entrepreneurship through acquisition. An instructor may take it up as an introductory case in such a course. It can also be used in the executive programme aimed at “women entrepreneurship”, “community-based model” and “serial acquisitions” to teach how women or founders create and grow entrepreneurial ventures with acquisitions or communities as their focal tenet. The case has been tested in the authors’ post-graduate student’s entrepreneurship course. An instructor can use it when the instructor wants to discuss the various growth strategies available to an entrepreneurial firm. Supplementary materials Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.

Applying marketing conventions on pharmaceutical generics: an analysis of Starpram brand from Maple Pharmaceuticals

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 1-22
Author(s):  
Shoaib M. Farooq Padela ◽  
Jawaid Ahmed Qureshi ◽  
Salman Bashir
Keyword(s):  
Learning Outcomes ◽  
Brand Equity ◽  
Economies Of Scale ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
High Growth ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Strategic Decisions ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Regulatory Affairs ◽  
Academic Level

Learning outcomes Learning outcomes (objectives and outcomes) are as follows: to understand the brand positioning, brand building and category extension decisions of a pharmaceutical brand (operative in one of the most competitive and regulated industries in a developing country); to analyze the outcomes of decisions pertaining strategic sales, branding, marketing and strategic restructuring to overcome the challenges of growth; and to design strategic solutions for developing brand equity. Case overview/synopsis This case explores the strategy of launching and establishing a pharmaceutical brand in an industry that tends to be a highly technical and the most regulated industry. It depicts market research data, industry analysis, stiff competition and regulatory affairs, and elaborates various strategic decisions taken by the company. The primary data for the case is accumulated through in-depth interviews from six industry experts on pharma marketing who were well acquainted with Maple Pharma and secondary data is gleaned from substantive literature. Maple Pharmaceuticals launched Starpram, a high-growth, high-potential generic antidepressant brand (in the central nervous system category) containing Escitalopram molecule/chemical. It had expertise cum competitive advantage in cardiovascular and anti-diabetic streams, but such initiative appeared category extension, with the intention to diversify risk and expand the company to achieve greater economies of scale. The first year sales revenue for Starpram appeared too bleak to spur further product inaugurations. Consequently, strategic overhaul transpired to establish the brand in the highly fragmented pharmaceutical industry. The firm lacked experience in anti-depressants category, coupled with poor sales, marketing mix and overall marketing strategy. Eventually, the management exercised strategic restructuring to establish brand equity and observed growth. Complexity academic level Study levels/Applicability graduate (MBA), MS, PhD (management sciences). Supplementary materials Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or e-mail [email protected] to request teaching notes. Subject code CSS 8: Marketing.

Exploring barriers to the implementation of city development strategies (CDS) in Iranian cities

2015 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 123-141 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Javad Maghsoodi Tilaki ◽  
Massoomeh Hedayati
Keyword(s):  
Urban Planning ◽  
Development Strategy ◽  
Planning Process ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
City Development ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Comprehensive Planning ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Relationship Of

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to explore the barriers to the implementation of city development strategy (CDS) to achieve the goals in Iranian cities which have experienced rapid uncontrolled growth in recent decades. As comprehensive planning method has failed to tackle the challenges facing the cities, various recommendations have been made to employ the CDS as a successful method based on strategic urban planning to develop Iranian cities. Design/methodology/approach – This study is qualitatively conducted based on the primary and secondary data in which the primary data were obtained from 11 semi-structured interviews, while the secondary data were collected through a review of international theoretical studies, Iranian experimental research and reports. Findings – The findings of this study indicate five major barriers to the implementation of the Iranian urban planning process based on the CDS. These comprise the centralization of urban planning structure, coordination and relationship of agencies, financial resources, related laws and regulations and public participation. Originality/value – This study develops a compelling argument that what is missing from research on CDS is an examination of the potential barriers of CDS implementation, particularly in Iranian cities.

GameStop’s next play: reconfiguring the value offering

2019 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 7-33
Author(s):  
A. Erin Bass ◽  
Erin G. Pleggenkuhle-Miles ◽  
Christopher C. Winchester ◽  
Thomas West
Keyword(s):  
Data Collection ◽  
Theoretical Basis ◽  
Core Competencies ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Competitive Dynamics ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Undergraduate Level ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Academic Level ◽  
Consumer Interests

Theoretical basis The theoretical basis for this case is a focus on strategic positioning as related to Porter’s generic strategies. The case describes GameStop’s previous differentiation approach, executed through physical stores and knowledgeable staff. With technological shifts and the introduction of digital downloads, this strategy is less effective. The case requires students to consider how GameStop might revise its generic strategy based on the new competitive landscape in which it operates. Research methodology In writing this case, the research team conducted thorough analysis through primary data collection in stores as well as secondary data collection through the use of market research tools, such as IBIS World, MergentOnline, S&P Net Advantage, and academic journals, trade magazines, and websites. Case overview/synopsis With high uncertainty shown by stakeholders about the future of GameStop coupled with falling share prices, the company must find a way to stay in play given the rapidly growing digital gaming market. As it planned to close at least 150 of its 7,500 stores, the company was starting to take measures to reduce operational costs and restructure to sectors that best fit consumer interests. GameStop’s core competencies were no longer aligned with market conditions, and its executives were now questioning where it could expand the organization’s operations as they focused on finding untapped areas of the market that have an opportunity for a new competitive advantage. Given its unique market share in gaming memorabilia and trade-in values, students are tasked with finding GameStop’s existing competitive advantages or identifying potential new ones that can be leveraged in a technology-driven industry. Complexity academic level This case could be taught at either the graduate or undergraduate level strategy course. At the undergraduate level, it would be best taught when discussing industry life cycle or competitive dynamics. At the graduate level, MBAs could discuss competitive dynamics facing GameStop and how it might find areas for future strategic growth.

Empowering the next generation of leaders

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 1-24
Author(s):  
Linda Appiea ◽  
Dorothy Ndletyana ◽  
Anthony Wilson-Prangley
Keyword(s):  
Women Leaders ◽  
Leadership Style ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Academic Level ◽  
Workplace Experiences

Learning outcomes The main teaching objective for the case is for students to build a better understanding of how to advance women (and other minorities) in the workplace through mentorship. This is achieved through recognizing the wide variety of issues that enable and constrains women’s advancement in the workplace; defining mentoring, sponsorship, coaching and networking; and highlighting how mentoring, sponsorship, coaching and networking can overcome the challenges of facing women’s advancement in the workplace? Case overview/synopsis The case study explores the role of senior women leaders in the career advancement of other women in the workplace. It helps us understand how mentoring can address the low prevalence of women at senior levels despite companies’ efforts to advance women. The case profiles the career and leadership journey of a senior female executive, Maserame Mouyeme. It documents her rise from the dusty streets of Soweto, South Africa to become one of the first black female executives in several corporate contexts across Africa and especially at Coca-Cola. The case illustrates her practice of mentoring and its impact on her and others’ careers. Also illustrated is Mouyeme’s leadership style, mentoring approach and workplace experiences. Students deliberate Mouyeme’s dilemma: whether to continue to advance a new generation of women leaders or whether to focus on her core role of building the business she is responsible for. The selected research method is a teaching case study, grounded in an exploratory approach. Primary data was collected via semi-structured interviews with the protagonist and four of her mentees. Secondary data was collected via studies about the protagonist and the companies she has worked for in her career. The case provides empirical insights about the role of leaders and especially women, in advancing women. The case shows the approaches in which organizations can advance women. It also shows how emerging leaders can better manage their own careers. The case deepens knowledge of women advancement and career development. Complexity academic level The case is appropriate for post-graduate level study, including MBA-level. It is also appropriate for use on executive development programs. Supplementary materials Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 6: Human Resource Management.

scholarly journals STRATEGI PENGEMBANGAN KAWASAN WISATA ALAM PULISAN KABUPATEN MINAHASA UTARA

2017 ◽  
Vol 13 (1A) ◽  
pp. 109
Author(s):  
Renardi ., Ariowibowo ◽  
Tommy F. Lolowang ◽  
Leonardus R. Rengkung
Keyword(s):  
Factor Analysis ◽  
Swot Analysis ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Coastal Region ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Growth Strategies ◽  
Local Residents ◽  
The Government

This study aimed to describe the potential and opportunities of Tourism Region Pulisan, identify any weaknesses and threats, and define management strategies of Pulisan Coastal Region. This research used descriptive method to interpret the data. This research was conducted at the Village of Pulisan, East Likupang Sub-district, North Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi Province which began in March to August 2016. The sampling technique used purposive sampling and used Theory of Tourism System. Respondents in this study is the government of North Minahasa Regency. The data used in this study are primary data and secondary data. This study uses a model of SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) factors predefined both from the view of experts as well as existing regulation. Then analyze the internal and external factors that are arranged in a matrix of IFAs (Internal Factor Analysis) and EFAS (External Factor Analysis). Research using SWOT analysis weights and scores are determined based on the analysis of data obtained from the respondents. The results showed that the tourism area is Pulisan Tourism Regions with high natural potential and much in demand by tourists. Although the location is not too wide but has many interesting attractions Tourism Region of Pulisan natural appeal to different types of travelers with different motivations. Development undertaken by the community with the coaching is done by the Department of Tourism and Culture of North Minahasa provide a change of design in terms of tourist facilities. Rearrangement taking into account the priority needs of tourists in the tourism area, this will greatly affect its development, so that tourists and travelers can feel the value of Marine Tourism Region at an affordable price. Growth strategies that are used to provide benefits for local residents. High tourist visits every weekend is expected to give local residents the ability to develop, it need guidance from relevant agencies to provide more targeted development.

Naparima Company Limited: beyond the financing crunch

2016 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 278-286
Author(s):  
Anthony Roger Bowrin ◽  
Lawrence Kickham ◽  
Stacie L. Krupp
Keyword(s):  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Business Management ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Company Limited ◽  
Household Products ◽  
Library Resources ◽  
Business Course ◽  
Hard Times

Synopsis Naparima Company Limited (NCL) was an importer and wholesaler of grocery and household products in Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies. Following increasing competition and the adoption of more lavish lifestyles by its owners, the company had fallen on hard times. Its banker, First Republic Bank, had called its outstanding loans of $1.412 million and given the company 90 days to repay all sums outstanding. Also, several major creditors had threatened legal action to recover amounts payable. This had forced NCL to explore alternative financing arrangements and to devise strategies that would improve its financial situation. Research methodology The authors used both field interviews and secondary data when preparing this case. One of the authors was a consultant to the company as it worked to develop a restructuring plan. The primary data gleaned from that process, which included interviews with all three leaders of NCL and a review of the company's financial statements, was supplemented by the collection of secondary data about the industry and its competitors from interviews with the executive director of industry association, and information about the national economic environment from newspaper articles and library resources. Relevant courses and levels This case is suitable for senior-level undergraduate students in a capstone business course, and graduate students in small business management and family business management courses.

Toward a theory on workplaces for smart workers

Facilities ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 38 (3/4) ◽  
pp. 298-315
Author(s):  
Luisa Errichiello ◽  
Tommasina Pianese
Keyword(s):  
Web Sites ◽  
Participant Observation ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Innovative Design ◽  
Content Type ◽  
New Type ◽  
Smart Working ◽  
Research Propositions

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to identify the main features of smart work centers (SWCs) and show how these innovative offices would support the implementation of smart working and related changes in workspaces (“bricks”), technologies (“bytes”) and organizational practices (“behaviors”). Design/methodology/approach In this study, scientific literature is combined with white papers and business reports and visits to 14 workplaces, including offices designed as SWCs, co-working spaces, one telecenter, one accelerator and one fab lab. Primary data were collected through interviews with managers and users and non-participant observation, whereas secondary data included web-sites, brochures, presentations, press releases and official documents. Findings The authors developed research propositions about how the design of spaces and the availability of technology within SWCs would support the “bricks” and “bytes” levers of smart working. More importantly, the authors assumed that this new type of workplace would sustain changes in employees’ behaviors and managers’ practices, thus helping to overcome several challenges traditionally associated with remote working. Research limitations/implications The exploratory nature of the research only provides preliminary information about the role of SWCs within smart working programs. Additional qualitative and quantitative empirical investigation is required. Practical implications This study provides valuable knowledge about how the design of corporate offices can be leveraged to sustain the implementation of smart working. Originality/value This study advances knowledge on workplaces by focusing on an innovative design of traditional offices (SWC). It also lays the foundations for future investigation aimed at testing the developed propositions.

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