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MBA Staff Writer
Written by Gary F. Smith
Publish Date: 2024-10-03

Harvard Case - The Walt Disney Company

"The Walt Disney Company" Harvard business case study is written by Frank T. Rothaermel, Noorein Inamdar. It deals with the challenges in the field of General Management. The case study is 28 page(s) long and it was first published on : Nov 15, 2017

At Fern Fort University, we recommend that The Walt Disney Company prioritize a strategic shift towards a data-driven, digitally-focused approach to enhance its global brand presence, diversify revenue streams, and foster sustainable growth. This strategy will involve leveraging technology and analytics, embracing digital transformation, and prioritizing innovation across all business units. Furthermore, Disney should actively engage in strategic partnerships and acquisitions to expand its reach in emerging markets, while simultaneously strengthening its commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability.

2. Background

The Walt Disney Company, a global entertainment and media conglomerate, faces a dynamic landscape characterized by evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and increasing competition. The case study highlights the company's efforts to navigate this complex environment, including its acquisition of 21st Century Fox, the launch of Disney+, and the ongoing integration of its various business units. The main protagonists of the case are Bob Iger, former CEO, and Bob Chapek, current CEO, who are tasked with leading Disney through this period of significant change.

3. Analysis of the Case Study

To analyze the case, we can utilize a framework that integrates strategic, financial, and operational perspectives.

Strategic Analysis:

  • SWOT Analysis: Disney possesses significant strengths, including a strong brand reputation, a diverse portfolio of assets, and a loyal customer base. However, the company faces weaknesses such as high operating costs, dependence on traditional media, and potential regulatory challenges. Opportunities lie in expanding into emerging markets, leveraging digital platforms, and developing innovative content. Threats include increasing competition, evolving consumer preferences, and technological disruption.
  • Porter's Five Forces: The entertainment industry is characterized by high rivalry, with numerous players vying for market share. The threat of new entrants is moderate, as significant capital investment is required. The bargaining power of buyers is high, as consumers have access to numerous entertainment options. The bargaining power of suppliers is moderate, as Disney has relationships with various talent and content providers. The threat of substitutes is high, as consumers can choose from other forms of entertainment, such as gaming or social media.

Financial Analysis:

  • Financial Performance: Disney has historically demonstrated strong financial performance, with significant revenue and profit generation. However, the company faces challenges in managing its debt levels and maintaining profitability in a rapidly changing market.
  • Investment Strategy: Disney has made significant investments in digital platforms, content production, and theme park expansion. These investments are crucial for future growth, but they also require careful financial management.

Operational Analysis:

  • Organizational Structure: Disney's organizational structure is complex, with multiple business units operating independently. This structure can create silos and hinder collaboration, impacting operational efficiency.
  • Operations Strategy: Disney's operations strategy is focused on delivering high-quality entertainment experiences across various platforms. However, the company needs to adapt its operations to embrace digital transformation and streamline its processes.

4. Recommendations

1. Embrace Digital Transformation:

  • Invest in Technology and Analytics: Disney should prioritize investments in data analytics, AI and machine learning to gain deeper insights into consumer behavior, optimize content production, and personalize customer experiences.
  • Develop a Data-Driven Culture: Foster a data-driven culture across all departments, encouraging employees to use data to inform decision-making and drive innovation.
  • Enhance Digital Platforms: Continuously improve the user experience on Disney+ and other digital platforms, leveraging data to personalize content recommendations and optimize user engagement.

2. Expand Global Reach:

  • Target Emerging Markets: Identify high-growth markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America and develop localized content and marketing strategies to attract new audiences.
  • Strategic Partnerships and Acquisitions: Explore strategic alliances and acquisitions to expand into new markets and acquire valuable content libraries.
  • Cross-Cultural Management: Invest in training and development programs to equip employees with the skills needed to navigate diverse cultures and markets.

3. Prioritize Innovation:

  • Invest in R&D: Allocate resources to research and development, exploring new technologies and content formats to stay ahead of the curve.
  • Encourage Intrapreneurship: Foster a culture of innovation by empowering employees to develop new ideas and pilot projects.
  • Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with technology companies, startups, and research institutions to leverage external expertise and accelerate innovation.

4. Strengthen Corporate Social Responsibility:

  • Environmental Sustainability: Implement sustainable practices across all business units, reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible resource management.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: Promote a diverse and inclusive workplace, reflecting the global audience Disney serves.
  • Ethical Business Practices: Maintain high ethical standards in all business operations, fostering a culture of integrity and transparency.

5. Basis of Recommendations

These recommendations are based on the following considerations:

  • Core Competencies and Mission: Disney's core competencies lie in storytelling, brand building, and entertainment production. These recommendations align with the company's mission to create high-quality entertainment experiences for global audiences.
  • External Customers and Internal Clients: The recommendations are designed to meet the evolving needs of consumers and empower employees to contribute to the company's success.
  • Competitors: The recommendations are designed to position Disney competitively against its rivals by leveraging its strengths and addressing its weaknesses.
  • Attractiveness: The recommendations are expected to drive revenue growth, increase market share, and enhance shareholder value.

6. Conclusion

The Walt Disney Company faces significant challenges and opportunities in the evolving entertainment landscape. By embracing a data-driven, digitally-focused approach, expanding its global reach, prioritizing innovation, and strengthening its commitment to corporate social responsibility, Disney can position itself for continued success in the years to come.

7. Discussion

Alternative strategies include focusing solely on traditional media, pursuing a more conservative growth strategy, or neglecting the importance of digital transformation. However, these approaches are likely to result in a decline in market share and profitability as the entertainment industry continues to evolve.

Key risks associated with the recommended strategy include:

  • Technological Disruption: Rapid advancements in technology could render current investments obsolete.
  • Regulatory Challenges: Changes in regulations could impact Disney's operations and business model.
  • Geopolitical Instability: Global events could disrupt Disney's operations and impact its financial performance.

8. Next Steps

To implement the recommended strategy, Disney should take the following steps:

  • Develop a comprehensive digital transformation roadmap.
  • Allocate resources to technology and analytics initiatives.
  • Establish a dedicated team to manage global expansion efforts.
  • Develop a robust corporate social responsibility strategy.
  • Monitor progress and adjust the strategy as needed.

By taking these steps, Disney can navigate the challenges and opportunities of the evolving entertainment landscape and continue to deliver high-quality entertainment experiences to global audiences.

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Case Description

With 195,000 employees, operations in 45 countries, and $55 billion in annual revenues, Disney is the largest media and entertainment company in the world. The strategic leadership of Walt Disney, Michael Eisner, and Robert Iger was critical in turning Disney into such a colossus empire. The case covers the epic journey of Disney from its inception in 1923 to its record performance results in 2016. The case examines how Disney grew through the corporate strategies of vertical integration, diversification, and geographic expansion by leveraging the following core competencies: creative content, technology, synergy, and branding. The case opens with Robert Iger, the current CEO who is facing four major challenges: acquiring creative content, technology disruption, global resistance to Disney's association with "American imperialism," and finding a successor by 2019. These challenges involve further broadening the scope of Disney, having to face even more formidable competition from international companies as well as former customers such as Netflix, and possibly hiring an "untested" CEO who could derail Disney's past success.

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