https://research-methodology.net Necessary knowledge to conduct a business research Sun, 18 Feb 2024 05:07:44 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://rm-15da4.kxcdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/cropped-logoBRM-32x32.jpg https://research-methodology.net 32 32 https://research-methodology.net/byd-value-chain-analysis/ Sun, 18 Feb 2024 05:07:44 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=77559 BYD value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the business. Figure below illustrates the essence of BYD value chain analysis. BYD Primary Activities BYD Inbound logistics BYD inbound logistics is one of the key sources for value creation for the EV behemoth. BYD has more than 11,000 cooperative suppliers, 41% of which are located in Southern China, 34% in Eastern China, 9% in Northern China.[1] The electric automaker aims to produce as many spare parts in-house as possible, thus decreasing dependence on external vendors, at the same time increasing profit margins. For example, for BYD Dolphin only tyres and windows are delivered by suppliers and all other components are produced by the company itself.[2] BYD prioritizes long-term partnerships with reliable suppliers, securing stable access to critical materials and components like lithium, cobalt, and semiconductors. This reduces procurement risks and price fluctuations. The company leverages cutting-edge technologies like digital supply chain management systems, artificial intelligence for demand forecasting, and automated warehouse robots.    BYD Operations In the operations stage, BYD engages in the manufacturing and assembly of its products. This includes the production of EVs, batteries, solar panels, and energy storage systems. Efficient production processes and quality control measures are crucial in this stage. BYD operations can be divided into the following four segments. Automobile. BYD delivered a total of 1,802,000 vehicles in 2022, with a year-on- year growth of 149.9%, including around 1,788,000 new energy vehicles, with a year-on-year growth of 217,6%.[3] Rail Transit. The company produces medium-capacity “SkyRail” and low-capacity “SkyShuttle” filling the technological and industrial gap in rail transit and providing effective solutions to traffic jams in cities all over the world. Renewable energy. As a provider of integrated renewable energy solutions, BYD produces relevant products like batteries, solar energy…]]> https://research-methodology.net/marriott-value-chain-analysis/ Sat, 28 Oct 2023 01:12:27 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=76003 Value chain analysis is an analytical tool that helps to find business activities that can create the most value and competitive advantage to the business. Figure  below illustrates the essence of Marriott value chain analysis. Marriott Value Chain Analysis   Marriott Primary Activities Marriott Inbound logistics The inbound logistics activities for Marriott International involve the procurement, transportation, and storage of the goods and services that the company needs to operate its hotels and resorts. These activities are essential to the company’s ability to provide its guests with a high-quality experience. Marriott International procures a wide range of goods and services from suppliers such as food and beverage, linen, furniture, toiletries and other supplies. The largest hotel chain in the world has a strong supplier network and is able to negotiate competitive prices. The company also has a team of experienced procurement professionals who are responsible for managing the inbound logistics process.   Marriott Operations Marriott’s operations can be divided into four key areas: 1. Hotels. Marriott operates and franchises hotels under its various brands. It also manages hotels on behalf of other owners. 2. Vacation ownership. Marriott operates a vacation ownership program called Marriott Vacation Club International. This program allows members to purchase vacation points that can be used to stay at Marriott-affiliated vacation resorts. 3. Timeshare exchange. Marriott operates Interval International, a timeshare exchange program that allows members to swap their timeshare weeks for stays at other resorts. 4. Food and beverage. Marriott operates restaurants and bars in many of its hotels. It also provides catering services.   Marriott Outbound Logistics Generally, outbound logistics within value chain analysis refer to all the activities involved in delivering the finished product or service to the customer. This includes warehousing, order fulfilment, transportation, and delivery. For Marriott International outbound logistics activities include the following:…]]> https://research-methodology.net/netflix-value-chain-analysis/ Thu, 21 Sep 2023 03:57:56 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=75510 Value chain analysis is an analytical tool that can be used to find business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the on-demand media provider. Figure below illustrates the essence of Netflix value chain analysis. Netflix Value Chain Analysis Netflix Primary Activities Netflix Inbound logistics Inbound logistics involves the processes associated with receiving and storing raw materials to create output. For a streaming service such as Netflix content is the raw material. Establishing strategic relationship with content producers and intellectual property holders such as Warner Brothers, Dream Works and Sony Pictures are the main sources of inbound logistics value creation for a streaming business. Netflix is utilizing these sources extensively. Currently, Netflix is increasing investments to produce its own, original content such as Squid Game, BoJack Horseman and Stranger Things as a differentiator amid intensifying competition. This shift has certain implications on inbound logistics aspect of the business. Specifically, focus on original content requires greater involvement in inbound logistics for the largest streaming service in the world.   Netflix Operations Operations are the stage where inbound logistics are transformed into outbound logistics. For Netflix, operational efficiency and cost advantage are the main sources of value creation at this stage. The on-demand media provider has to maintain its video streaming platform effectively in terms of ease of access, quick search, stability, and security of the server.    Netflix Outbound Logistics Outbound logistics refer to the distribution of products and services to customers. Usual sources of value creation in outbound logistics include Delivering to consumers directly without intermediaries, Cooperation with other businesses to share distribution costs and extensive integration of information and communication technologies. Considering that Netflix delivers digital media through streaming and downloads, the relevance of outbound logistics aspect of value chain analysis for the largest streaming service in…]]> https://research-methodology.net/apple-value-chain-analysis/ Sat, 01 Jul 2023 00:05:28 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=6537 Apple value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the business. Figure 1 below illustrates the essence of Apple value chain analysis. Figure 1 Apple Value Chain Analysis Apple Primary Activities Apple Inbound logistics Inbound logistics primary activity refers to receiving and storing of raw materials for their consecutive use in manufacturing. Apple works with hundreds of suppliers around the globe and maintains a highly sophisticated supply-chain management as illustrated in Figure 2 below. Figure 2 Apple operations roadmap[1] Apple supply chain involves more than 3 million people working for thousands of businesses in 52 countries[2] The multinational technology company’s purchase commitments typically cover its requirements for periods up to 150 days[3].  Tim Cook is an experienced word-class supply chain professional. Steve Jobs had convinced him to join Apple as head of supply chain in 1998 when the tech giant was in trouble, risking the bankruptcy. As part of massive supply chain turnover Tim Cook cut the numbers of suppliers, reduced the number of warehouses by half and established relationships with contract manufacturers. Cook has been able to reduce Apple inventory turn over from 1 month to 2-5 days. Cook further reduced the numbers of suppliers after becoming CEO in 2011. As a result of these and other initiatives, Apple supply chain practices have become a benchmark for efficiency for global businesses. The main sources of value in Apple inbound logistics relate to the economies of scale due to the massive scope and scale of business operations as discussed below and the development of strategic relationships with suppliers. Moreover, Apple Inc. exercises an immense bargaining power in dealing with its suppliers and as a result, the company is able to secure cost advantage in the purchase of…]]> https://research-methodology.net/nvidia-value-chain-analysis/ Thu, 22 Jun 2023 05:33:58 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=74441 Nvidia value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the business. Specifically, business leaders can create competitive advantage through dividing the business into various activities and analysing each activity individually from value creation perspective. Figure below illustrates the essence of Nvidia value chain analysis. Value chain analysis     Primary Activities in Nvidia Value Chain Analysis Nvidia Inbound logistics Nvidia inbound logistics involves managing the supply chain of components and raw materials into the premises of its contract manufacturers. The multinational technology company performs quality checks of semiconductors and other spare parts using test equipment purchased from industry-leading suppliers such as Advantest America Inc. Nvidia benefits from the economies of scale in inbound logistics activities due to the large amount of spare parts and components it purchases. Furthermore, the company has strategic relationships with its key suppliers in place and these relationships play an instrumental role in new product development.    Nvidia Operations Nvidia employs fabless manufacturing strategy. It employs third party companies outside of United States for all phases of the manufacturing process, including wafer fabrication, assembly, testing, and packaging.[1] Nvidia does not engage in any of these activities directly and chooses to focus the design, marketing and distribution of its products. The company works with world-class manufacturers to produce its products. Semiconductor wafers are produced by leading companies such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited and Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd, adapter card products and switch systems are produced by the likes of Flex Ltd., Jabil Inc., and Universal Scientific Industrial Co., Ltd. and Fabrinet manufactures Nvidia cables. Assembly, testing and packaging of products and platforms are done by Amkor Technology, King Yuan Electronics Co., Ltd., Omni Logistics, LLC, Siliconware Precision Industries Company Ltd., Wistron Corporation…]]> https://research-methodology.net/wework-value-chain-analysis/ Thu, 23 Feb 2023 03:44:48 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=72711 WeWork value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the co-working giant. Figure below illustrates the essence of WeWork value chain analysis. WeWork Value Chain Analysis   WeWork Primary Activities WeWork Inbound logistics Generally, inbound logistics involve receiving and storing raw materials and using them for manufacturing. WeWork offers space as a service and as such its value chain analysis, including  inbound logistics are affected by the following main characteristics of service: a) Inseperability. In services production and consumption are simultaneous and they cannot be separated. b) Intangibility. Unlike products, services are intangible and they cannot be touched in physical terms. However, intangibility aspect of services relates to WeWork to a lesser degree compared to other types of services. This is because office spaces and furniture and appliances within offices are tangible items. c) Perishability. Services cannot be stored for the later use or sale. Certain number of desks of a co-working operator staying vacant during a certain period of time means waste and loss for the business. d) Heterogeneity. It is difficult to establish a standard for the quality of services. The quality of services is highly dependent on the perception of each individual user. Inbound logistics for WeWork involve finding suitable places for co-working offices and furnishing these offices as creative and attractive workspaces.    WeWork Operations Operations within value chain analysis refer to the process of transforming raw materials into products ready to sell. For service companies such as WeWork operations include the processes that make the services possible and deliver the experiences to consumers. WeWork operates a network of 756 locations in 38 countries as of December 2021[1]. The co-working giant attempts to design its offices and workspaces in a creative manner that…]]> https://research-methodology.net/starbucks-value-chain-analysis/ Sat, 08 Oct 2022 00:23:06 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=1493 Starbucks value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage for the global coffeehouse chain. Figure below illustrates the essence of value chain analysis. Starbucks Value chain analysis   Starbucks Primary Activities Starbucks Inbound logistics Starbucks inbound logistics and supply chain was subjected to a dramatic restructuring in 2010 after Howard Schultz had returned to the role of CEO for the second time. The restructuring initiative of Starbucks inbound logistics involved simplification of supply-chain management and the creation of a single, global logistics system. Unroasted Arabica coffee beans are brought from Asia, Africa and Latin America to the US and Europe in containers via sea. Also, the coffee chain purchases green coffee beans from multiple coffee-producing regions around the world. These are delivered to one of the following regional roasting plants and distribution centres: Kent Flexible Roasting Plant – Kent, Washington. Augusta Roasting Plant – Augusta, Georgia. Sandy Run Roasting Plant – Gaston, South Carolina. York Roasting Plant and Distribution Center – York, Pennsylvania. Evolution Fresh Juicery – Rancho Cucamonga, California. Coffees are roasted and packaged and taken to dozens of central distribution centres around the globe. Along with coffees from regional distribution centres, central distribution centres also receive deliveries from vendors for a wide range of products starting from coffee machines to napkins. Central distribution centres make more than 70,000 deliveries per week to Starbucks 25,085 stores located in 75 countries.[1] The world’s largest coffeehouse chain also grows its own coffee. Since 2013 Starbucks has its first own 240-hectar coffee farm in PoasVolacno, Costa Rica.[2] Such a shift in the sourcing of products can increase the effectiveness of new product development initiatives for the business as the company will have a chance of experimenting with developing new sorts of…]]> https://research-methodology.net/ikea-value-chain-analysis/ Wed, 17 Aug 2022 00:19:14 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=1558 IKEA value-chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the global furniture retailer. “Each step in the manufacture of a product or the delivery of a service can be thought of as a link in a chain that adds value to the product or service. This concept of how business fulfils its mission and objectives is known as the value chain”[1]. Figure below illustrates the essence of IKEA value chain analysis. IKEA Value Chain Analysis IKEA Primary Activities IKEA Inbound logistics Inbound logistics for IKEA is associated with purchasing raw materials and ready items from about 1220 suppliers located in more than 55 countries worldwide.[2] The majority of IKEA products (89%) are sourced from external suppliers across the globe.[3] The world’s largest furniture retailer conducts purchasing via its 31 trading service offices in 26 countries. The top five purchasing countries for The Swedish furniture chain include China 20%, Poland 18%, Italy 8%, Germany 6% and Sweden 5%.[4] IKEA inbound logistics is a major source of value creation for the business. Specifically, the proximity of company’s 31 trading service offices to supplier locations helps to ensure that company can monitor production, test new ideas, negotiate prices and check quality of products and raw materials they are buying. Economies of scale are another factor that decreases the prices of inbound logistics for the furniture retailer.  Moreover, flat pack Do-It-Yourself assembly principle for many IKEA products lowers the cost of packaging and makes inbound logistics easier to facilitate. The world’s largest furniture retailer maintains strategic relationships with its suppliers. The average length of supplier relationship is 11 years[5], with some suppliers working with IKEA for several decades.   IKEA Operations IKEA operations are divided into three divisions – Franchise, Property and…]]> https://research-methodology.net/mcdonalds-value-chain-analysis/ Thu, 23 Jun 2022 00:14:21 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=7310 Value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the business. The figure below illustrates the essence of McDonald’s value chain analysis. McDonald’s value chain analysis   McDonald’s Primary Activities McDonald’s Inbound logistics McDonald’s inbound logistics involves receiving and storing raw materials and using them to produce its burgers and other items in the menu. Raw materials for the fast food chain include meat, raw vegetables, ketchup, mayonnaise, napkins etc. Economies of scale are the main source of value creation in McDonald’s inbound logistics. The fast food giant has been pursuing backwards vertical integration strategy. This strategy involves companies to expand their roles and capabilities to complete tasks formally fulfilled by other companies in their supply chain. Specifically, McDonald’s “grow their own beef through contracted producers, process their own meat, create their own spices and mixes in factories that they contract, grow their own potatoes and other vegetable through contracted producers, transport their goods on their own.”[1] Backward vertical integration strategy allows the fast food chain to control the quality of their ingredients and reduce the costs of supply.   McDonald’s Operations McDonald’s operates more than 40,000 company-owned and franchised restaurants. As of December 2021 in total 37,295 stores, or 93%, were franchised[2]. McDonald’s franchise restaurants have one of the following formats: conventional franchise, developmental license or affiliate.[3] Conventional franchising involves franchisees paying rent and royalties on the percentage of sales along with the payment of initial fees when opening a new restaurant. In this type of franchising, McDonald’s Corporation owns the land and building or secures a long-term lease for the restaurant location and the franchisee pays for equipment, signs, seating and décor.[4] Developmental license involves licensees providing capital for the entire business, including the real estate interest.[5] In developmental license…]]> https://research-methodology.net/amazon-value-chain-analysis-2/ Fri, 25 Mar 2022 03:15:31 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=7215 Value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the business. Figure below illustrates the essence of Amazon value chain analysis. Amazon Value chain analysis   Amazon Primary Activities Amazon Inbound logistics Inbound logistics within Amazon value chain analysis involve receiving and storing raw materials to produce goods and services. Due to massive global scope of its operations the e-commerce giant maintains complex, but sophisticated inbound logistics operations. Generally, Amazon does not have long-term contracts or arrangements with its vendors to guarantee the availability of merchandise, particular payment terms, or the extension of credit limits. Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) is the cornerstone of Amazon inbound logistics for company-owned retail business. Moreover, the economies of scale is an important source of value creation for Amazon inbound logistics. Sellers can also use FBA by stowing their inventory in Amazon fulfilment centres. In this case, Amazon assumes full responsibility for logistics, customer service, and product returns. If a customer orders an FBA item and an Amazon owned-inventory item, the company ships both items to the customer in one box, as a significant gain of efficiency. The use of FBA is an optional choice for sellers and this choice makes the products of third-party sellers eligible for Amazon Prime free two-day shipping, free shipping and other benefits. Amazon uses logistics beyond the point to serve Amazon Marketplace and starting from recently, the company has been offering logistics services to third parties. For example, Beijing Century Joyo Courier Services, an Amazon subsidiary registered with the U.S. government as an ocean shipping provider.[1] From this point of view, efficient logistics infrastructure also belongs to the list of Amazon competitive advantages.   Amazon Operations Operations generally comprise the process of transforming raw materials into goods…]]> https://research-methodology.net/square-value-chain-analysis/ Thu, 30 Sep 2021 01:38:13 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=58073 Value chain analysis is a strategic analytical tool that can be used to identify business activities that create the most value. The framework divides business activities into two categories – primary and support. The figure below illustrates the essence of Square value chain analysis. Square Value Chain Analysis   Square Primary Activities Square Inbound logistics Inbound logistics refers to receiving and storing raw materials for their consequent usage in producing products and providing services. Along with a wide range of financial services, Square offers related hardware products such as card readers, stands, terminals, registers, hardware kits and accessories. The majority of hardware products are produced in China. Accordingly, cost-effectiveness of producing hardware products is the main source of value creation in inbound logistics for Square.    Square Operations Square operations are divided into the following two segments: 1. Seller ecosystem. An expanding ecosystem of products and services that are designed to assist sellers to start, run and grow their businesses. In 2019 this segment processed USD106.2 billion of Gross Payment Volume (GPV), which was generated by nearly 2.3 billion card payments from 407 million payment cards.[1] 2. Cash ecosystem. This segment centred on Cash App integrates financial products and services that help individuals manage their money. As of December 2019, Cash App had approximately 24 million monthly active customers who had at least one transaction in any given month.[2] The main source of value creation in operations primary activity for Square refers to high level of speed and convenience of products and services enabled by technology. The finance sector disruptor spotted demand in both segments and developed products and services to satisfy demand with the use of the latest technology.   Square Outbound Logistics Outbound logistics involve warehousing and distribution of products.  Square uses the following distribution channels to distribute…]]> https://research-methodology.net/uber-value-chain-analysis-2/ Wed, 21 Jul 2021 00:32:06 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=15605 Uber Value chain analysis is a strategic analytical tool that helps to identify the sources of value and competitive advantage for the global transportation technology company. Figure below illustrates the essence of Uber value chain analysis. Uber Value Chain Analysis Uber Primary Activities Uber Inbound logistics Generally, inbound logistics involves receiving and storing raw materials. Uber, the largest taxi technology company in the world, does not own the vehicles it uses to serve customers. The vehicles are owned or rented by Uber drivers, who are not employees, but independent contractors. Uber drivers need to possess smartphones to use Uber app software. Uber users, i.e. customers also must have access to a smartphone or mobile website to be able to use the service. Accordingly, value addition in Uber inbound logistics relates to internet-based nature of business operations and the business model of the company. Specifically, thanks to its business model, despite the large size of the business, Uber inbound logistics is only limited to mainly hardware and office equipment needed to sustain the business. The global transportation technology company does not need to procure any raw material for provide its services.    Uber Operations Uber operations are highly sophisticated and customer-centric thanks to its app equipped with advanced functions and capabilities. Therefore, it can be argued that Uber app is one of the main sources of value in Uber operations. Uber operates in approximately 10000 cities worldwide. Business operations are divided into four reportable segments: 1. Mobility. In Mobility segment Uber operations consist of connecting consumers with independent providers of ride services. The usage of Uber mobility services involves the following stages: a) Requesting the ride. Customers can use Uber app to tap each ride option to see wait time, driver’s rating, and price. Customers can enter their pickup location and…]]> https://research-methodology.net/tesla-value-chain-analysis-2/ Thu, 29 Apr 2021 00:12:42 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=26369 Tesla value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the electric automaker. Figure below illustrates the essence of Tesla value chain analysis. Tesla value chain analysis Primary Activities in Tesla Value Chain Analysis Tesla Inbound logistics Tesla inbound logistics involves the receipt and storage of raw materials to build electric vehicles, energy storage systems and solar panels. Along with a standard set of raw materials, Tesla uses a range of scarce materials such as aluminium, steel, cobalt, lithium, nickel and copper. In the US, the company receives parts at its Fremont automotive factory from thousands of suppliers worldwide, including from its very own Gigafactory in Sparks, Nevada. The electric automaker leases three warehouses totalling a massive 1.3 million square feet in the Oaks Logistics Centre in Livermore, California., just 20 miles northeast of the Fremont factory as a storage for raw materials. Additionally, in 2019, Tesla constructed 870,000-square-foot facility in Lathrop, California as a massive spare parts storage.[1] Currently, highly sophisticated inbound logistics practices are not one of the main sources of value creation for the electric automaker. Tesla works primarily on a build-to-order basis, which means bottlenecks in parts supply could be a big headache.[2] Accordingly, it is critically important for Tesla to establish long-term strategic relationships with suppliers.   Tesla Operations Tesla conducts vehicle manufacturing and assembly operations at its facilities in Fremont, California; Lathrop, California; Tilburg, Netherlands and Shanhhai, China. Generally, Tesla operations can be divided into two segments: 1. Automotive. This segment comprises design, development, manufacturing, and sales of electric vehicles. The company produced and delivered approximately half a million vehicles in 2020.[3] The electric automaker started Model Y production at Gigafactory Shanghai in December 2020. The table below illustrates annual production capacities…]]> https://research-methodology.net/w-w-grainger-value-chain-analysis/ Thu, 20 Aug 2020 05:10:21 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=44194 W.W. Grainger value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage for global MRO products distributor. Figure below illustrates the essence of Grainger value chain analysis. W.W. Grainger Value chain analysis   Grainger Primary Activities Grainger Inbound logistics Grainger inbound logistics involves receiving and storing MRO products by the global industrial supply company in its distribution centres for subsequent shipment to customers. The worldwide distributor of industrial products purchases approximately 1,7 million types of MRO products from approximately 5000 suppliers worldwide and stores them in distribution centres. Economies of scale is a major source of value creation in inbound logistics for the global industrial supply company.  Additionally, the B2B distributor benefits from its strategic relationships with its suppliers in general and key suppliers in particular.   Grainger Operations Grainger operations are divided into the following three segments: 1. United States segment. This segment generated sales of USD 8,6 billion in 2018, 72% of total revenue of the company.[1] The industrial supply company divides its customers in US segment into two categories according to complexity of their needs.  a) Large customers in the US. Customers in this segment have complex needs and require services at their place of business. Grainger source of value creation in dealing with large customers in the US include adoption of partnership approach and assisting customers to reduce total cost of ownership in MRO spend by helping them to manage their labour, product and inventory costs. b) Medium customers in the US. This customer segment has less complex needs compared to large customers. Moreover, medium or mid-size customers in the US are mainly concerned with the solutions of their immediate business problems. Ranges and prices of products can be specified as major source of value creation…]]> https://research-methodology.net/airbnb-value-chain-analysis/ Mon, 16 Sep 2019 00:30:06 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=39510 Airbnb value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the global rental and experiences platform. Figure below illustrates the essence of Airbnb value chain analysis. Airbnb Value Chain Analysis   Primary Activities in Airbnb Value Chain Analysis Airbnb Inbound logistics In traditional businesses inbound logistics involve receiving and storing raw materials to be used to manufacture products. Inbound logistics is different in service industry in general and online service in particular due to differences between products and services that include inseparability, intangibility, perishability and heterogeneity. From this perspective, Airbnb inbound logistics can be divided into two groups: 1. Inbound logistics related to core services. Core services for the company comprise peer-to-peer listings of accommodation, experiences and adventures. Airbnb inbound logistics for its core services takes a few minutes thanks to purely online nature of its business. Specifically, hosts can list their properties or experience services on the website of the lodging colossus on a matter of a few minutes. Therefore, inbound logistics of each new addition to its website comes for no extra cost for Airbnb. 2. Inbound logistics of resources and items that are used to aid the facilitation of core services. The global hospitality service brokerage company also uses a range of physical resources such as stationary items for its offices. Moreover, products like pillows and mugs, distributed to hosts occasionally to motivate them can also be mentioned as resources acquired by the travel industry disruptor to aid the facilitation of core services. Economies of scale can be specified as the main source of value addition in Airbnb inbound logistics of items that aid in facilitation of core services.   Airbnb Operations Generally, operations involve the transformation of raw materials into finished products in manufacturing…]]> https://research-methodology.net/microsoft-value-chain-analysis-2-2/ Wed, 06 Feb 2019 00:10:21 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=6596 Microsoft value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the business. Figure 1 below illustrates the essence of Microsoft value chain analysis. Figure 1 Microsoft Value Chain Analysis   Microsoft Primary Activities Microsoft Inbound logistics Microsoft contracts with multiple suppliers internationally, as illustrated in Figure 2 below. Accordingly, the company has to maintain highly complicated supply-chain operations without any disruptions. It is compulsory of all suppliers to adhere to Microsoft Supplier Code of Conduct and The Microsoft Supplier Requirements. The main sources of value for Microsoft inbound logistics include the economies of scale, presence of strategic relationships with suppliers and in-depth knowledge of supply-chain management practices due to selling relevant software i.e. Microsoft Dynamics AX. Figure 2 Microsoft production supplier locations[1]   Microsoft Operations Microsoft Corporation business is divided into the following three operating segments: 1. Productivity and Business Processes. This segment comprises Microsoft products and services related to productivity, communication, and information services. The segment comprises a range of devices and platforms such as Office Commercial, Office Consumer LinkedIn and Dynamics. 2. Intelligent Cloud. This operating segment includes public, private, and hybrid server products and cloud services that can power modern business. Intelligent Cloud segment comprises server products such as SQL Server, Windows Server, Visual Studio, System Center, and related CALs, and Azure, as well as, Enterprise Services, such as Support Services and Microsoft Consulting Services. 3. More Personal Computing. This segment consists of products and services geared towards harmonizing the interests of end users, developers, and IT professionals across screens of all sizes. Microsoft’s regional centre in Ireland supports the European, Middle Eastern, and African region; the centre in Singapore supports the Japan, India, Greater China, and Asia-Pacific region; and the centres in Fargo, North…]]> https://research-methodology.net/xiaomi-value-chain-analysis-2/ Fri, 01 Jun 2018 00:02:15 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=22814 Xiaomi value chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the mobile internet company. Figure  below illustrates the essence of Xiaomi value chain analysis. Xiaomi Value Chain Analysis  Xiaomi Primary Activities Xiaomi Inbound logistics Xiaomi inbound logistics involves the delivery and storage activities of raw materials by the mobile internet company. Strategic relationships with Taiwan-based manufacturers of various components is one of the main sources of value for Xiaomi inbound logistics. Specifically, Xiaomi partners with Inventec and Hon Hai for assembly, Wintek and TPK for screen technology and Unicorn for PCB (printed circuit boards). Moreover, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (TSMC) is the main processor supplier for the company. Xiaomi also procures various electronic components from nearby countries. For example, MOS and batteries are mainly imported from Thailand.   Xiaomi Operations Operations activities within Xiaomi value chain analysis refer to the processes of transforming raw materials into ready products. The mobile internet company has established its presence in 70 countries and regions and it is among the top 5 in 16 markets. Xiaomi manufactures locally more than 75% of smartphones it sells in India.[1] Location of manufacturing units in China and India is one of the main sources of value in Xiaomi operations. This is because the costs of human resources in these developoing countries are cheap. Along with proximity of manufacturing units to the sources of raw materials, cost-effective human resources play an instrumental role in sustaining cost advantage competitive edge of the business. Moreover, Xiaomi sophisticates its manufacturing processes in a systematic manner using advanced technologies and benefiting from technological innovations.   Xiaomi Outbound Logistics Initially, Xiaomi outbound logistics practices were limited to the shipment of products directly to end-users via couriers. At that stage the company…]]> https://research-methodology.net/samsung-value-chain-analysis-5/ Wed, 11 Oct 2017 05:16:01 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=6921 Samsung value-chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage for the global electronics company. Figure 1 below illustrates the essence of value chain analysis. Figure 1 Samsung Value chain analysis   Samsung Primary Activities Samsung Inbound logistics Samsung has 579 suppliers globally and the company’s supply chain includes over 2,700 suppliers in various industries across the world.[1] The majority of Samsung suppliers are based in Asia and accordingly, 79.4% of its supply-chain expenses occur in Asia. This is followed by Americas (14.8%), Europe (4.4%) and other places.[2] In order control inbound logistics aspect of the business more effectively, Samsung owns a number of logistics firms as its subsidiaries. The most notably, Samsung Electronics Logitec, established in 1998, is an integrated enterprise logistics management agent that serves logistics needs of the company with 540 employees and 8,600 partner employees around the globe.[3] Figure 2 Samsung supply chain management principles[4] Strategic relationships with suppliers is one of the main sources of value creation for the multinational electronics company. For example, the company changed the payment cycle from twice a month to four times a month in 2011 and implemented early payments around Korea’s traditional holiday seasons, thereby helping to smooth the funding of operations for suppliers.[5] Samsung Operations Samsung Electronics is a global company that operates 38 production bases in 17 countries around the world.[6] The company manufactures 90% of its products in-house.  Samsung operations are divided into three key divisions: IT & Mobile Communications (IM) Consumer Electronics (CE) Device Solutions (DS) At the end of 2015, Samsung Electronics maintained 199 worldwide operation hubs, including manufacturing subsidiaries, sales subsidiaries, design centres, research centres, and 15 regional head offices worldwide. Figure 3 below illustrates the full scope of Samsung global network of operations.…]]> https://research-methodology.net/google-value-chain-analysis/ Wed, 07 Jun 2017 00:24:15 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=6677 Google value-chain analysis is an analytical framework that assists in identifying business activities that can create value and competitive advantage to the business. Figure 1 below illustrates the essence of Google value chain analysis. Figure 1 Google value chain analysis Google Primary Activities Google Inbound logistics It can be argued that Google generates the greatest value in inbound logistics activities compared to other activities. Google’s core business is search. Internet users use Google’s search to find information they need, therefore the list of content generated as search results can be specified as ‘product’ provided by Google. The content Google generates as search result is created by private and organizational internet users and it comes to Google free of charge. Therefore, due to unique aspects of Google’s business model there is no inbound logistics costs for its core search business. Google also uses an extensive range of hardware, technological equipments and tools to conduct its business operations. The internet giant does not reveal the details of its supply-chain management and inbound logistics to the public. Google maintains a dedicated supplier site, where suppliers can submit invoice for payment, check invoice status and deal with a range of other administrative aspects of their cooperation with the company in a convenient manner. Google Operations Google operates via more than 70 offices in more than 40 countries internationally. Google offices are famous for their creative design and the presence of distinctive features such as sharing cubes, video games, pool tables, pianos, cafes and others. Google headquarters in Mountain View, California consists of about 4.8 million square feet of office and building space, along with about 15 acres of land that can be ground for more office space in the future. The major source of value in Google’s operations can be specified as the company’s…]]> https://research-methodology.net/facebook-value-chain-analysis/ Thu, 12 Jan 2017 00:13:58 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=9284 Value chain analysis is a strategic analytical tool that can be applied to analyse business activities to be able to identify those activities that contribute most the overall competitive advantage of the business. Facebook value chain analysis provided below discusses sources of competitive advantage of the social media company by referring to its primary and support business activities. Figure 1 below illustrates the essence of value chain analysis. Figure 1 Facebook Value Chain Analysis Primary Activities Inbound logistics Facebook Inc. inbound logistics refers to ways the company acquires resources and uses according to its needs. The range of resources used by the social media giant includes hardware, various types of technologies and office supplies. Generally, value chain analysis framework analyses the processes of receiving and storing raw materials until their transformation into the final goods. However, due to Facebook Inc.’s business model illustrated in Figure 6 below, tangible resources such as hardware and technology used by the company are only secondary in their nature and the primary resources used to attract the customers are intangible. Specifically, Facebook offers its customers unique intangible ‘products’ of informational nature, i.e. content. From this point of view, inbound logistics of content is highly cost-effective since the content is uploaded by users of in the forms of texts, pictures and videos without any additional costs for the business. Operations Facebook is available in more than 90 different languages, and the company has offices or data centres in more than 30 countries around the world. Moreover, there are five support offices and more than 35 sales offices located globally.[1] Approximately 84.5% of Facebook daily active users are outside the US and Canada.[2]  As it is illustrated in Figure 2 below, Facebook operations mainly involve the transformation of raw content into user-friendly format via profile page, timeline,…]]>