Course Detail (Course Description By Faculty)

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course uses the case study method to analyze business strategies in the face of market disruption and uncertainty, with a particular focus on the convergence of the automotive/transportation and technology industries—two, trillion-dollar sectors that innovate at vastly different paces, or “clockspeeds”.

Not since the first automotive revolution over a hundred years ago has there been such a stunning transformation in the industry.   Every facet of transportation—from product development, to manufacturing, to supply chains and the customer experience—is undergoing profound changes, driven by the powerful convergence of the automotive and technology sectors. A tsunami of new investments – some half trillion dollars and climbing – has hit the industry from start-ups, established OEM's and suppliers and tech companies.    Massive investments are being made in AI, software defined vehicles, electric propulsion systems, semiconductors, self-driving cars and trucks and mobility on demand services. The industry is creating a dazzling array of new vehicles – supercomputers on wheels – and over the next decade a new multi-trillion industry will emerge with new (and existing) players and new business models.

So, how might all this play out? If history is any guide, we can expect a shakeout among market players, resulting in clear winners and losers. With billions of dollars at stake, this course offers students a strategic framework—The Clockspeed Dilemma—providing fresh ideas and approaches to not only survive but thrive during periods of market disruption

This course draws upon a combination of assigned readings, lectures, case analyses, and in-person participation of senior industry executives. Readings are posted on Canvas, and the course schedule delineates which readings are due before the start of the week’s lecture. Presentations used in class will be published on Canvas following the lecture, but students are encouraged to write down key insights from the executive speakers’ presentations and intricacies of the case studies that may or may not be included in the slides.

METHODS OF EVALUATION

Marks for the class will be assessed based on class participation, case study reports, and a final group project:

1. Class Participation (40%)

   40% of the course grade will be based on class participation. Behavior demonstrating participation include, but are not limited to attendance, on-time arrival, and professional behavior during the class, asking insightful questions that further our discussion, sharing relevant professional experience, and a general demonstration of positive engagement.

2. Case Study Questions (10%)

   Throughout the course, we will explore four case studies focusing on different aspects of competitive strategy during market disruption. These will include historical examples showcasing varying degrees of success from diverse positions within the industry. Additionally, you will have unique, intimate access to senior industry leaders who were directly involved in these cases, providing invaluable insights. The lessons drawn from these case studies will form the foundation of our learning. Students are encouraged to collaborate on the questions in groups of 2-4.

3. Final Group Project (50%)

Your final grade will be calculated with the following weights on assignments:

This course does not permit Pass/Fail grading, and students must earn a quality grade to be awarded credits.