Purpose – The purpose of this article is to identify and discuss the practical implications of the resource based view of the firm. Design/methodology/approach – Review of relevant literature. Findings – A number of recommendations are put forward and the practical implications constitute...

Cover -- How purchasing became a strategic function: from purchasing to external resources management -- Supply resource management: Salomon and his network of subcontractors in Romania -- How purchasing managers can benefit from new opportunities -- Geopolitics: a new field of expertise for...

We learn from history but it can be a mistake to assume that the past will always repeat itself. Nevertheless, it is reasonable assumption that, because of what took place in the 20th century, the new millennium will see continuing and increasing globalization as a feature of the business world....

In an era when the share price is king and quarterly reports dominate the dreams (or nightmares) of chief executives, it is refreshing to listen to Frederick F. Reichheld talk about the importance of loyalty. As a director emeritus of Bain & Company and the author of two books on the subject, he...

Brand perception, brand equity, brand awareness – the list is endless. Ask anyone in your organization to identify a strong brand and they will do so almost without thinking, citing names such as Coca‐Cola, Nike, Microsoft or McDonald’s. Then inquire as to what makes these brands so good...

A few years on from the collapse of the telecommunications industry and the dust has well and truly settled. Mobile communication organizations across the globe have come to terms with saturated markets and reduced profit margins. As a result, new strategies are emerging and restructures...

Much of the attention paid to Hewlett‐Packard has come, of late, as a result of the $19 billion acquisition of Compaq Computer, a remarkable feat that has fuelled the enthusiasm of Carly Fiorina to set her sights on the mighty IBM. Quentin Hardy says: “Companies that can’t create new...

Purpose – To provide an insight into some of the current thinking and strategies of Chinese companies seeking to play a significant role in global markets, particularly in the West. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds impartial comments,...