The following is a case study on Apple., Inc. in 2012: The file is attached.
Your case analysis should not simply restate the facts of the case; they should take your understanding of the case to a higher level. Demonstration of a high level of understanding requires application of the various concepts and models as presented in prior management/business classes as well as this class, to the situation in the case. Please analyze, do not report. This is the format to follow:
I. Cover Page: Name of the case, your name and date.
II. Executive Summary: This should be the last section you work on. Start with a statement covering the contents of the case analysis. Include a brief assessment of the situation, strategic recommendation and expected results of recommended strategy. Do not exceed one and a half pages.
III. Key Problems: Identify the core problems in the case.
IV. Analysis and Evaluation: This section should form the bulk of your paper. Evaluate the problem and support your evaluation with facts. If you add exhibits then ensure that you discuss them. You are at liberty to utilize relevant models and concepts from your current and past business classes in your analysis.
V. Recommendation: Recommend your strategic choice based on identified alternatives. Note that there are no perfect solutions. Do not forget to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the strategy you have selected. Indicate how the strategy fits with the key problems identified.
VI. Implementation Plan: This section should present the process by which the strategy can be implemented. Identify what should be done, who should do it and when it should be done. If there are challenges that should be considered then make sure you draw the readers' attention to them.
In addition to the above, the following study questions need to be answered in your case study report:
1. What, historically, have been Apple's competitive advantage?
2. Analyze the personal computer industry. Why did Apple struggle historically in PCs?
3. How sustainable is Apple's competitive position in PCs, MP3 players, and smartphones?
4. What are Apple's long-term prospects for the iPad?
5. What advice would you offer the new CEO Tim Cook?
Please note that your written case study will be graded as a "professional" report. Please critique your report for spelling errors and grammatical mistakes.