Assignment
Google
1) Describe the strategy Google used to move from search to other technical areas. What products and acquisitions helped them move beyond just search? Do you feel the products and acquisitions have helped Google penetrate competing market segment?
2) Describe the governance aspects of Google's IPO offering. Was this common in IPO's and would you consider this a viable approach from an individual perspective? What did Larry Page state to potential shareholders to eliminate concerns.
3) "Don't be Evil"
The mantra, "Don't be evil," is explained under point six in the list of "Ten things Google has found to be true" (case Exhibit 4). Two things stand out: 1) "We don't allow ads to be displayed on our results pages unless they are relevant," and 2) "We never manipulate rankings to put our partners higher."
What is the cost of being "good"? How does, "Don't be evil" limit Google's strategic flexibility going forward?