Use Harvard Business School Case "Pilkington Float Glass-1955" ID # 9-695-024
Examines the development of the float glass process at Pilkington in the mid-1950s. Pilkington has pursued the development of a radically new process for flat glass production, but has experienced serious problems at each stage of development. The senior management must now decide whether to scale up to commercial production.
Q1) Compare the float glass process with the established plate glass making method?
Q2) What is your evaluation of Pilkington's approach to new product/process development?
Q3) Would you recommend the Board of Pilkington Brothers approve Alastair's request for $1.96 million to modify a redundant plate glass furnace for a full scale production line?