This course focuses on strategic decision making in technology intensive industries. We will develop a set of tools which are crucial for the formulation and management of a winning technology strategy. The course focuses on the application of conceptual models that clarify the interactions between external competition, firm positioning, patterns of technological and market change, and the nature and development of internal firm capabilities. There is particular emphasis on building models for making strategic decisions in the context of significant technology, demand, and competitive uncertainty.
Application of the tools developed in the course requires a clear understanding of the particular technology(s) underlying the industries that we study. Hence, the course will require a significant amount of reading, above and behind the conceptual readings and cases.
The course is designed to appeal to students interested in pursuing a career in venture capital; consulting to high-tech companies; investment banking with a focus on technology, and starting, growing, or managing a company in a technology-intensive industry.