Month: October 2013

Apple’s recent release of a new iPad Air came as no surprise. A few years ago, the iPad was the only (and arguably the best) option on the market if one was looking to purchase a tablet. Today, Apple remains a consumer favourite, but in order to justify their high prices their products must continue to exert their superiority in both function and style.

The iPad Air does just that, heightening the air of simplicity and minimalism that marks the appeal of all Apple products. The Air is slimmer, only .29 of an inch thick, maintaining its lead in the quality and quantity of Apps it provides. It also boasts updated wireless technology that will create a noticeable difference.

Many people argue that Apple releases products too quickly, and because they are so expensive it is often challenging to upgrade quickly despite one’s desire (and the social pressure) to do so. Personally, I think that their marketing strategy is genius. The desire that they inspire guarantees that somewhere, people are going to purchase their product to stay up to date. Apple has successfully created a differentiated product resulting in a high barrier to entry.

Source:

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-10-30/new-ipad-is-slimmed-down-speeded-up-rich-jaroslovsky.html

HP has long been known for their technological innovations resulting in birth of Silicon Valley and egalitarian culture which many organizations model themselves after. However, in recent years, HP has been struggling with their products but most importantly, their culture. HP’s CEO, Meg Whitman, expressed her concerns through an internal memo asking employees to work in their offices instead of at home. This decision is based on the theory that collaboration between employees through face-to-face contract increases creativity and productivity. This is an example of HP’s attempt to focus on their culture and people.

Despite her efforts, Whitman may be inadvertently damaging HP’s culture. Many modern information technology companies offer telecommunication for their employees because they understand that employees tend work more productively and more than the compulsory hours. Telecommunication also acts as an incentive for many employees since the information technology market is highly competitive. If Whitman’s decides to implement mandated office hours, there may be a high number of employee turnovers. Whitman needs to recognize that although telecommunication may take some management time, the investment will pay off.

Source:

http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-10-09/at-hp-meg-whitman-wants-people-to-show-up-for-work