Select a company from the 2019 Fortune 500 list that demonstrates a sustainable competitive advantage in the marketplace.
The selected company’s sustainable competitive advantage using the SWOT analysis technique.
Minimum 700 to 800 word modified SWOT analysis that includes the following:
An introduction with a detailed description of the company
A SWOT analysis diagram that includes strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats
An evaluation of how specific internal factors (strengths and/or weaknesses) support and/or promote a competitive advantage; examples may include:
Financial, physical, or human resources
Access to natural resources, trademarks, patents, or copyrights
Current processes (employee programs or software systems)
An evaluation of how specific external factors (opportunities and/or threats) support and/or promote a competitive advantage; examples may include:
Market trends (new products or technology advancements)
Economic trends (local and/or global)
Demographics
Regulations (political, environmental, or economic)
Conclusion with an evaluation of how the company has retained its competitive advantage
Company: Apple Inc.
Introduction
Apple Inc. is a multinational technology company headquartered in Cupertino, California. It designs, develops, and sells consumer electronics, computer software, and online services. Apple is the largest technology company by revenue and the world’s most valuable company. The company has a strong brand reputation and a loyal customer base. Apple is known for its innovative products and its focus on user experience.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths
Weaknesses
Opportunities
Threats
Evaluation of Internal Factors
Apple’s strong brand reputation and loyal customer base are two of the company’s most important internal strengths. These factors help to create a competitive advantage for Apple. Customers are willing to pay a premium for Apple products because they know that they are getting a high-quality product. Additionally, Apple’s focus on user experience helps to ensure that customers are satisfied with their products.
Apple’s reliance on key suppliers is a potential weakness. However, the company has taken steps to mitigate this risk by diversifying its supplier base. Additionally, Apple’s strong financial performance gives the company the ability to invest in new suppliers or to develop its own manufacturing capabilities.
Evaluation of External Factors
The growth of emerging markets is a significant opportunity for Apple. The company has already made significant inroads into these markets, and there is still room for further growth. Additionally, Apple has the potential to enter new product categories. This could help the company to expand its customer base.
Competition from Chinese smartphone makers is a major threat to Apple. These companies are offering high-quality products at lower prices than Apple. Additionally, changes in consumer tastes could also pose a threat to Apple. If consumers become less interested in smartphones, Apple could see its sales decline.
Conclusion
Apple has been able to retain its competitive advantage by focusing on innovation, user experience, and brand building. The company has also been able to successfully navigate changes in the external environment. As a result, Apple is well-positioned to continue to be a leader in the technology industry.
In addition to the factors mentioned above, Apple has also been able to retain its competitive advantage by:
By focusing on these factors, Apple has been able to maintain its position as one of the world’s most successful companies.