STRATEGYMonths to result

Framework for Competing in Emerging Industries

Compete in emerging industries

Problem it solves

unclear strategic direction

Best for

Companies operating in emerging industries

Not ideal for

Companies with limited resources or those operating in highly centralized industries

Overview

Why this framework exists

This framework provides a structured approach to competing in emerging industries, including identifying the structural characteristics of the industry, assessing the competitive environment, and selecting strategic alternatives.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Identify the structural characteristics of the emerging industry, including technological uncertainty, strategic uncertainty, and high initial costs.
  2. Assess the competitive environment, including the presence of newly formed companies and spin-off firms.
  3. Evaluate the potential for innovation and strategic change to alter the industry structure and create competitive advantage.

Steps

3 steps
  1. Identify Structural Characteristics of the Industry
    Identify the structural characteristics of the emerging industry, including technological uncertainty, strategic uncertainty, and high initial costs.
    Pro tipConsider the role of innovation and strategic change in altering the industry structure
    WarningBe aware of the risks of overreacting to new products or technologies
  2. Assess the Competitive Environment
    Assess the competitive environment, including the presence of newly formed companies and spin-off firms.
    Pro tipConsider the use of strategic group analysis to identify potential competitors
    WarningBe cautious of assuming that a single approach will work for all companies in the industry
  3. Evaluate Potential for Innovation and Strategic Change
    Evaluate the potential for innovation and strategic change to alter the industry structure and create competitive advantage.
    Pro tipConsider the role of innovation and strategic change in creating new market opportunities
    WarningBe aware of the risks of overinvesting in innovation and strategic change

Checklist

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Examples

2 cases
Personal Computer Industry

The personal computer industry is an example of an emerging industry with rapid growth and technological change. Companies in this industry must be able to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and technological advancements.

OutcomeCompanies that are able to innovate and adapt quickly can establish a strong market position and achieve long-term success.
Solar Heating Industry

The solar heating industry is a fragmented industry with many small, privately held firms. Companies in this industry must navigate the challenges of technological uncertainty, strategic uncertainty, and high initial costs.

OutcomeCompanies that successfully navigate these challenges can achieve a competitive advantage and establish a strong market position.

Common mistakes

3 traps
Overreacting to New Products or Technologies
This can lead to increased costs and reduced competitiveness in the long run.
Failing to Consider Industry Trends and Structural Changes
This can lead to missed opportunities and reduced competitiveness in the long run.
Assuming a Single Approach Will Work for All Companies
This can lead to incorrect conclusions about competitor behavior and industry dynamics.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The framework was developed by Michael E. Porter, a renowned expert in competitive strategy, as part of his work on industry analysis and competitive strategy.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
Competitive Strategy
Michael E. Porter · 1980
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