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Harvard Case - Cisco Systems and OpenDNS: Strategic Integration

"Cisco Systems and OpenDNS: Strategic Integration" Harvard business case study is written by Andy Wu, George Gonzalez, David Wang. It deals with the challenges in the field of Strategy. The case study is 23 page(s) long and it was first published on : Apr 10, 2018

At Fern Fort University, we recommend Cisco Systems proceed with the acquisition of OpenDNS, leveraging this strategic integration to solidify its position as a leader in the evolving cybersecurity landscape. This move will enable Cisco to capitalize on the burgeoning cloud security market, enhance its existing security portfolio, and drive sustainable growth through a combination of organic expansion and strategic acquisitions.

2. Background

This case study examines Cisco Systems' strategic decision to acquire OpenDNS, a leading provider of cloud-based DNS security services. The acquisition aimed to strengthen Cisco's position in the rapidly growing cybersecurity market, particularly in the cloud security segment.

The main protagonists of the case study are:

  • Cisco Systems: A global leader in networking and cybersecurity solutions, seeking to expand its presence in the cloud security market.
  • OpenDNS: A provider of cloud-based DNS security services, known for its innovative approach to cybersecurity.

3. Analysis of the Case Study

Strategic Analysis:

  • Porter's Five Forces: The cybersecurity market is characterized by high rivalry among established players like Cisco, Symantec, and McAfee. The threat of new entrants is moderate due to the high barriers to entry, including the need for significant R&D investment and expertise. Bargaining power of buyers is moderate, as customers have a range of options but are increasingly reliant on comprehensive security solutions. Bargaining power of suppliers is low due to the availability of alternative technology providers. The threat of substitutes is moderate, with emerging technologies like blockchain potentially disrupting traditional security solutions.
  • SWOT Analysis:
    • Strengths: Cisco's strong brand recognition, extensive customer base, and established network infrastructure. OpenDNS's innovative cloud-based security platform and expertise in DNS security.
    • Weaknesses: Cisco's reliance on traditional security solutions, potential challenges in integrating OpenDNS's technology. OpenDNS's relatively smaller size and limited global reach.
    • Opportunities: The growing demand for cloud-based security solutions, the increasing adoption of cloud computing, and the expanding threat landscape.
    • Threats: Competition from established players, the emergence of new security threats, and potential regulatory changes.
  • Value Chain Analysis: The acquisition strengthens Cisco's value chain by adding OpenDNS's cloud-based security capabilities to its existing portfolio. This integration allows Cisco to offer a more comprehensive and integrated security solution to its customers, enhancing its value proposition.
  • Business Model Innovation: The acquisition represents a strategic shift for Cisco, moving beyond traditional hardware-centric solutions towards a more software-defined and cloud-based approach to cybersecurity. This business model innovation enables Cisco to tap into the rapidly growing cloud security market and cater to the evolving needs of its customers.

Financial Analysis:

  • Mergers and Acquisitions: The acquisition of OpenDNS was a strategic move for Cisco, aimed at expanding its market share and gaining access to new technologies. The financial implications of the acquisition, including the purchase price and potential synergies, were carefully considered by Cisco's leadership.
  • Corporate Governance: The acquisition was subject to thorough due diligence and approval processes, ensuring compliance with corporate governance standards and shareholder interests.

4. Recommendations

Strategic Integration:

  • Vertical Integration: Cisco should leverage OpenDNS's expertise in DNS security to enhance its existing security portfolio, creating a more comprehensive and integrated solution for its customers.
  • Product Development: Cisco should invest in the development of new cloud-based security solutions based on OpenDNS's technology, expanding its offerings in the cloud security market.
  • Marketing Strategy: Cisco should leverage its brand recognition and marketing channels to promote OpenDNS's solutions to its existing customer base and new markets.
  • Organizational Culture: Cisco should foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, integrating OpenDNS's agile and customer-centric approach into its existing operations.

Growth Strategy:

  • Market Penetration: Cisco should focus on penetrating existing markets with its enhanced security portfolio, leveraging the combined strengths of Cisco and OpenDNS.
  • Market Development: Cisco should explore new markets for its cloud-based security solutions, expanding its global reach and targeting emerging markets.
  • Product Development: Cisco should continue to invest in the development of new security solutions, leveraging its R&D capabilities and OpenDNS's expertise.

Strategic Alliances:

  • Strategic Partnerships: Cisco should explore strategic partnerships with other technology providers to enhance its cloud security offerings and expand its reach in the market.
  • Open Source Collaboration: Cisco should consider participating in open source initiatives related to cybersecurity, fostering innovation and collaboration within the industry.

5. Basis of Recommendations

  • Core Competencies and Consistency with Mission: The acquisition of OpenDNS aligns with Cisco's core competencies in networking and cybersecurity, strengthening its position as a leader in the evolving security landscape.
  • External Customers and Internal Clients: The integration of OpenDNS's technology will provide customers with a more comprehensive and integrated security solution, meeting their evolving needs.
  • Competitors: The acquisition allows Cisco to compete more effectively in the cloud security market, challenging established players and emerging competitors.
  • Attractiveness: The acquisition of OpenDNS is expected to generate significant value for Cisco, driving revenue growth and enhancing profitability.

6. Conclusion

The acquisition of OpenDNS represents a strategic opportunity for Cisco to solidify its position as a leader in the evolving cybersecurity landscape. By leveraging OpenDNS's innovative cloud-based security platform and expertise, Cisco can enhance its existing security portfolio, expand its reach in the cloud security market, and drive sustainable growth.

7. Discussion

Alternatives:

  • Organic Growth: Cisco could have pursued organic growth in the cloud security market, investing in R&D and developing its own cloud-based security solutions. However, this approach would have been more time-consuming and potentially less effective in capturing market share quickly.
  • Joint Venture: Cisco could have formed a joint venture with OpenDNS, sharing resources and expertise. However, this approach may have resulted in less control over the integrated business and potentially slower decision-making.

Risks and Key Assumptions:

  • Integration Challenges: The integration of OpenDNS's technology and culture into Cisco's existing operations could pose significant challenges, potentially impacting the success of the acquisition.
  • Competition: The cloud security market is highly competitive, and Cisco will face ongoing challenges from established players and new entrants.
  • Technology Evolution: The rapid evolution of cybersecurity technologies could require Cisco to continuously adapt and invest in new solutions.

8. Next Steps

  • Integration Planning: Develop a comprehensive integration plan, including timelines, key milestones, and resource allocation.
  • Product Development: Prioritize the development of new cloud-based security solutions based on OpenDNS's technology.
  • Marketing and Sales: Launch targeted marketing campaigns to promote the integrated security portfolio to existing and new customers.
  • Organizational Culture: Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, integrating OpenDNS's agile and customer-centric approach into Cisco's operations.

By implementing these recommendations, Cisco can leverage the acquisition of OpenDNS to drive sustainable growth, enhance its competitive advantage, and solidify its position as a leader in the evolving cybersecurity landscape.

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Case Description

With more than 72,000 employees and revenues approaching the $50B mark, Cisco Systems is one of the largest information technology and networking firms globally. As the company grew and expanded into different lines of businesses, Cisco consistently looked outwards for acquisition targets that could supplement its considerable size and reach. As a follow-up to its well-received $2.7B acquisition of SourceFire in 2013, which seamlessly integrated new cybersecurity offerings into the Security business group, Cisco began conversations with OpenDNS. OpenDNS was a fast-growing start-up with credibility in the cloud security space, but there were also concerns about how its Silicon Valley culture and flat organizational culture would mesh with Cisco's more staid corporate environment. This case considers the dilemmas that two Cisco executives, Karen Ashley and Dianne Nakanishi, face as they make a final decision about whether and how to acquire and integrate OpenDNS.

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