Apple Computer
Apple Computer
Apple computer was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs and issued its initial public offering (IPO) in 1980. Apple experienced tremendous growth and became the industry leader in research and development, which resulted in leadership being able to forecast market demand changes.
Apple increased market shares by introducing iPods, iTunes, iPhones and opening retail stores in key locations to increase product awareness and circulation. Gene One wants to replicate Apple’s success and is predicting a 40% increase in yearly sales based principally on new products and technology.
In the 90s Apple experienced turmoil within their senior leadership team, resulting in dissention that forced their leader Steve Jobs out. Apple was foundering without their charismatic leader. Apple suffered significant market share loses and revenues well into the later 90s (Khaund, 2004). Gene One should learn from Apple’s mistake and not let the IPO manage the company, but rather let Don Ruiz lead it through this process and trust his key management team to manage their areas.
Apple has brought back their charismatic leader and are have regained their leadership position in the industry. The introduction of iPhone and their new McIntosh computer line has resulted in 1,236,000 and 6,451,000 units sold respectively. This is a 68 % and 384% increase in revenues through 2005 (Apple, 2007). Gene One must couple good planning and communication with proper leadership style if they do not want to repeat Apple’s story.
References:
Apple.com (2007). Apple Reports fourth quarter results. Retreived on September 15,
2007 from: http://www.apple.com/pr/library/2005/oct/11results.html
Heilemann, J. (March, 2005). GQ. Journey to the (revolutionary, evil-hating, cash-crazy,
and possibly self-destructive) center of google. Retrieved September 15, 2007, from http://men.style.com/gq/features/full?id=content_422.
Khaund, Sandy, (2007). Leadership profile: Steve Jobs...
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