Assignment Prompt & Instructions
[>Marketing homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-marketing)
See attached
**files (2)**
– ## UnitIVJournal.docx
– ## UnitIV.pdf
**## UnitIVJournal.docx**
Unit IV Journal
This one-page journal measures your mastery of ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5.
In a one-page journal, address the following questions:
· How is innovation a key concept in strategy for any global firm? (You may use the global firm you selected in Unit III as an example.)
· What are at least two types of innovation? How are they different?
· What is the role of leadership in innovation?
No APA Style formatting is required for this journal.
**## UnitIV.pdf**
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 1
Course Learning Outcomes for Unit IV
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:
3. Summarize the role of innovation in strategic business planning.
3.3 Explore the importance of the internal and external environment within which firms operate.
3.4 Contrast the models of innovation.
3.5 Explain the role of leadership in innovation.
Required Unit Resources
Chapter 7: Business Strategy: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Platforms (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
This chapter examines the innovation process and the industry life cycle. The various types of innovation are
explored.
Unit Lesson
Lesson: Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
This unit focuses on the important role of innovation and entrepreneurship as it relates to business strategy
and driving competitive advantage.
This unit also examines four industrial revolutions to provide the historical perspective of the evolution of
firms. Rothaermel (2024) discusses the concept of disruption as an important concept in innovation, and he
describes innovation as “the successful introduction of a new product, process, or business model—is a
powerful driver in the competitive process” (p. 246).
Innovation
The innovation process includes an idea, invention, innovation, and limitation. Innovation is “the
commercialization of an invention” (Rothaermel, 2024, p. 249).
The authors, de Jong et. al. (2015), developed an eight-step innovation model based on a survey of more
than 2,500 global CEOs. The eight steps include aspire, choose, discover, evolve, accelerate, scale, extend,
and mobilize. The authors note that innovation is a complex organization-wide effort and attention to these
eight steps in a systematic manner is necessary for success. In that regard, innovation is about a continuous
improvement process designed to sustain competitive advantage.
The Four Industrial Revolutions
Rothaermel (2024) identifies four industrial revolutions: 1780s:—steam power and mechanization;
1870s:electricity, mass production, and assembly lines; 1970s:computers, electronics, and automation; and
2020s:artificial intelligence and cyber-physical systems including the Internet of Things.
UNIT IV STUDY GUIDE
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 2
UNIT x STUDY GUIDE
Title
Figure 1: Four Industrial Revolutions from the 1780s to 2020s (Rothaermel, 2024, p. 252)
Clearly, today's world of business is significantly impacted by technological advances. This blurring of
boundaries between the physical, digital, and biological world is referred to as the fourth industrial revolution
(IR). Advances in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), 3D printing, genetic
engineering, quantum computing, and other technologies impact the way work gets done, how products are
produced, and how companies achieve their objectives. Regardless of the company’s size, age, or industry,
advances in technology such as AI are making their way into the daily practices of companies, and
companies must consider the implications of the fourth IR when developing strategic plans.
Clay Christensen (as cited in Larsen, 2016) from Harvard University identified the increased role of innovation
driven by technology as disruptive innovation—it is quicker and fundamentally can change the business
model of a firm. As we consider the four industrial revolution eras how does the fourth IR impact the firm that
you have selected for the course project? What skills do you see as important for employees in an
increasingly technology-reliant world?
Entrepreneurship and Leadership
Entrepreneurs are the change agents who take the risks associated with the commercialization of an
innovation (Rothaermel, 2024). To incorporate a successful innovation system in any firm requires leadership.
Leaders should support the concept of innovation by first recognizing that the skills required in the
organization are dynamic. Leaders must be aware of and react to change, including possible skill gaps in the
work force. The proper recruitment, upskilling, and retention are all important for the success of a firm in
turbulent times. Having the employees in the organization develop and maintain the required skills is
important for innovation. Also, for innovation to be successful, leaders should encourage an entrepreneurial
mindset within the organization in which all stakeholders look to add value to their firm for innovation to be
successful.
Innovation is often considered a part of the industry life cycle concept because it often generates new
industries. For example, technology has enabled an entirely new service delivery that caters to home delivery
of groceries. Essentially, the life cycle of a product includes introduction, growth, shakeout, maturity, and
decline. Product innovation usually occurs in the early stages of the life cycle of the firm; whereas process
innovation is more likely to occur in the latter stages of the life cycle as shown in Chapter 7, Exhibit 7.11:
Features and Strategic Implications of the Industry Life Cycle chart. For example, note that innovation of a
product that is so important to a firm in the introductory part of the life cycle gradually reduces in importance
through the latter stages of the life cycle model.
To support innovation, Rothaermel (2024) suggests that leaders must support moving from controlling
resources to a more open resource orchestration model; moving from an internal focus to a more external
focus for interactions; and changing focus from customer value to ecosystem value.
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 3
UNIT x STUDY GUIDE
Title
Summary
In summary, innovation in today’s hypercompetitive environment is a key part of our strategic planning
processes. It is about continuous improvement and meeting—or exceeding—customer expectations.
Increasingly, innovation to build competitive advantage is driven by technological advances requiring, in many
cases, new employee skills. As discussed, the fourth IR will continue to create challenges and opportunities
for firms. Firms and employees must recognize that the reality of the fourth IR will require new skills to adapt
to the new technological era.
References
de Jong, M., Marston, N., & Roth, E. (2015, April 1). The eight essentials of innovation. McKinsey Quarterly.
https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/the-eight-
essentials-of-innovation
Larson, C. (2016, November 15). Disruptive innovation theory: What it is & 4 key concepts. Harvard Business
School Online’s Business Insights. https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/4-keys-to-understanding-clayton-
christensens-theory-of-disruptive-innovation
Rawpixel (n.d.). Character illustration of people with global network concept [Image]. Freepik.
https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/character-illustration-people-with-global-network-
concept_3585190.htm#query=strategy%20global%20business%20planning&position=2&from_view=
search&track=ais&uuid=eab5dd3f-267d-4ae8-9a3a-5381e987b5ac
Rothaermel, F. T. (2024). Strategic management (6th ed.). McGraw Hill.
https://online.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781265954574
Vector4stock. (n.d.). Business process illustration infographic of business structure from idea to successful
business [Image]. Freepik.
https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/business-process-illustration-infographic-business-structure-from-
idea-successful-business-
project_26195295.htm#query=strategy%20global%20business%20planning&position=34&from_view
=search&track=ais&uuid=eab5dd3f-267d-4ae8-9a3a-5381e987b5ac
Learning Activities (Nongraded)
Nongraded Learning Activities are provided to aid you in your course of study. You do not have to submit
them. If you have questions, contact your instructor for further guidance and information.
Activity: Case Study (Optional)
In Chapter 7, read Chapter Case 7 Part II. This case study illustrates the importance of technology and
disruptive innovation as it relates to Netflix.
In a personal journal, answer the five questions at the end of the case study.
– Course Learning Outcomes for Unit IV
– Required Unit Resources
– Chapter 7: Business Strategy: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Platforms (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
– Unit Lesson
– Lesson: Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
– Innovation
– The Four Industrial Revolutions
– Entrepreneurship and Leadership
– Summary
– References
– Learning Activities (Nongraded)
– Activity: Case Study (Optional)
**## UnitIV.pdf**
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 1
Course Learning Outcomes for Unit IV
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:
3. Summarize the role of innovation in strategic business planning.
3.3 Explore the importance of the internal and external environment within which firms operate.
3.4 Contrast the models of innovation.
3.5 Explain the role of leadership in innovation.
Required Unit Resources
Chapter 7: Business Strategy: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Platforms (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
This chapter examines the innovation process and the industry life cycle. The various types of innovation are
explored.
Unit Lesson
Lesson: Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
This unit focuses on the important role of innovation and entrepreneurship as it relates to business strategy
and driving competitive advantage.
This unit also examines four industrial revolutions to provide the historical perspective of the evolution of
firms. Rothaermel (2024) discusses the concept of disruption as an important concept in innovation, and he
describes innovation as “the successful introduction of a new product, process, or business model—is a
powerful driver in the competitive process” (p. 246).
Innovation
The innovation process includes an idea, invention, innovation, and limitation. Innovation is “the
commercialization of an invention” (Rothaermel, 2024, p. 249).
The authors, de Jong et. al. (2015), developed an eight-step innovation model based on a survey of more
than 2,500 global CEOs. The eight steps include aspire, choose, discover, evolve, accelerate, scale, extend,
and mobilize. The authors note that innovation is a complex organization-wide effort and attention to these
eight steps in a systematic manner is necessary for success. In that regard, innovation is about a continuous
improvement process designed to sustain competitive advantage.
The Four Industrial Revolutions
Rothaermel (2024) identifies four industrial revolutions: 1780s:—steam power and mechanization;
1870s:electricity, mass production, and assembly lines; 1970s:computers, electronics, and automation; and
2020s:artificial intelligence and cyber-physical systems including the Internet of Things.
UNIT IV STUDY GUIDE
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 2
UNIT x STUDY GUIDE
Title
Figure 1: Four Industrial Revolutions from the 1780s to 2020s (Rothaermel, 2024, p. 252)
Clearly, today's world of business is significantly impacted by technological advances. This blurring of
boundaries between the physical, digital, and biological world is referred to as the fourth industrial revolution
(IR). Advances in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), 3D printing, genetic
engineering, quantum computing, and other technologies impact the way work gets done, how products are
produced, and how companies achieve their objectives. Regardless of the company’s size, age, or industry,
advances in technology such as AI are making their way into the daily practices of companies, and
companies must consider the implications of the fourth IR when developing strategic plans.
Clay Christensen (as cited in Larsen, 2016) from Harvard University identified the increased role of innovation
driven by technology as disruptive innovation—it is quicker and fundamentally can change the business
model of a firm. As we consider the four industrial revolution eras how does the fourth IR impact the firm that
you have selected for the course project? What skills do you see as important for employees in an
increasingly technology-reliant world?
Entrepreneurship and Leadership
Entrepreneurs are the change agents who take the risks associated with the commercialization of an
innovation (Rothaermel, 2024). To incorporate a successful innovation system in any firm requires leadership.
Leaders should support the concept of innovation by first recognizing that the skills required in the
organization are dynamic. Leaders must be aware of and react to change, including possible skill gaps in the
work force. The proper recruitment, upskilling, and retention are all important for the success of a firm in
turbulent times. Having the employees in the organization develop and maintain the required skills is
important for innovation. Also, for innovation to be successful, leaders should encourage an entrepreneurial
mindset within the organization in which all stakeholders look to add value to their firm for innovation to be
successful.
Innovation is often considered a part of the industry life cycle concept because it often generates new
industries. For example, technology has enabled an entirely new service delivery that caters to home delivery
of groceries. Essentially, the life cycle of a product includes introduction, growth, shakeout, maturity, and
decline. Product innovation usually occurs in the early stages of the life cycle of the firm; whereas process
innovation is more likely to occur in the latter stages of the life cycle as shown in Chapter 7, Exhibit 7.11:
Features and Strategic Implications of the Industry Life Cycle chart. For example, note that innovation of a
product that is so important to a firm in the introductory part of the life cycle gradually reduces in importance
through the latter stages of the life cycle model.
To support innovation, Rothaermel (2024) suggests that leaders must support moving from controlling
resources to a more open resource orchestration model; moving from an internal focus to a more external
focus for interactions; and changing focus from customer value to ecosystem value.
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 3
UNIT x STUDY GUIDE
Title
Summary
In summary, innovation in today’s hypercompetitive environment is a key part of our strategic planning
processes. It is about continuous improvement and meeting—or exceeding—customer expectations.
Increasingly, innovation to build competitive advantage is driven by technological advances requiring, in many
cases, new employee skills. As discussed, the fourth IR will continue to create challenges and opportunities
for firms. Firms and employees must recognize that the reality of the fourth IR will require new skills to adapt
to the new technological era.
References
de Jong, M., Marston, N., & Roth, E. (2015, April 1). The eight essentials of innovation. McKinsey Quarterly.
https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/the-eight-
essentials-of-innovation
Larson, C. (2016, November 15). Disruptive innovation theory: What it is & 4 key concepts. Harvard Business
School Online’s Business Insights. https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/4-keys-to-understanding-clayton-
christensens-theory-of-disruptive-innovation
Rawpixel (n.d.). Character illustration of people with global network concept [Image]. Freepik.
https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/character-illustration-people-with-global-network-
concept_3585190.htm#query=strategy%20global%20business%20planning&position=2&from_view=
search&track=ais&uuid=eab5dd3f-267d-4ae8-9a3a-5381e987b5ac
Rothaermel, F. T. (2024). Strategic management (6th ed.). McGraw Hill.
https://online.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781265954574
Vector4stock. (n.d.). Business process illustration infographic of business structure from idea to successful
business [Image]. Freepik.
https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/business-process-illustration-infographic-business-structure-from-
idea-successful-business-
project_26195295.htm#query=strategy%20global%20business%20planning&position=34&from_view
=search&track=ais&uuid=eab5dd3f-267d-4ae8-9a3a-5381e987b5ac
Learning Activities (Nongraded)
Nongraded Learning Activities are provided to aid you in your course of study. You do not have to submit
them. If you have questions, contact your instructor for further guidance and information.
Activity: Case Study (Optional)
In Chapter 7, read Chapter Case 7 Part II. This case study illustrates the importance of technology and
disruptive innovation as it relates to Netflix.
In a personal journal, answer the five questions at the end of the case study.
– Course Learning Outcomes for Unit IV
– Required Unit Resources
– Chapter 7: Business Strategy: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Platforms (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
– Unit Lesson
– Lesson: Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
– Innovation
– The Four Industrial Revolutions
– Entrepreneurship and Leadership
– Summary
– References
– Learning Activities (Nongraded)
– Activity: Case Study (Optional)
**## UnitIVJournal.docx**
Unit IV Journal
This one-page journal measures your mastery of ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5.
In a one-page journal, address the following questions:
· How is innovation a key concept in strategy for any global firm? (You may use the global firm you selected in Unit III as an example.)
· What are at least two types of innovation? How are they different?
· What is the role of leadership in innovation?
No APA Style formatting is required for this journal.
**## UnitIV.pdf**
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 1
Course Learning Outcomes for Unit IV
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:
3. Summarize the role of innovation in strategic business planning.
3.3 Explore the importance of the internal and external environment within which firms operate.
3.4 Contrast the models of innovation.
3.5 Explain the role of leadership in innovation.
Required Unit Resources
Chapter 7: Business Strategy: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Platforms (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
This chapter examines the innovation process and the industry life cycle. The various types of innovation are
explored.
Unit Lesson
Lesson: Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
This unit focuses on the important role of innovation and entrepreneurship as it relates to business strategy
and driving competitive advantage.
This unit also examines four industrial revolutions to provide the historical perspective of the evolution of
firms. Rothaermel (2024) discusses the concept of disruption as an important concept in innovation, and he
describes innovation as “the successful introduction of a new product, process, or business model—is a
powerful driver in the competitive process” (p. 246).
Innovation
The innovation process includes an idea, invention, innovation, and limitation. Innovation is “the
commercialization of an invention” (Rothaermel, 2024, p. 249).
The authors, de Jong et. al. (2015), developed an eight-step innovation model based on a survey of more
than 2,500 global CEOs. The eight steps include aspire, choose, discover, evolve, accelerate, scale, extend,
and mobilize. The authors note that innovation is a complex organization-wide effort and attention to these
eight steps in a systematic manner is necessary for success. In that regard, innovation is about a continuous
improvement process designed to sustain competitive advantage.
The Four Industrial Revolutions
Rothaermel (2024) identifies four industrial revolutions: 1780s:—steam power and mechanization;
1870s:electricity, mass production, and assembly lines; 1970s:computers, electronics, and automation; and
2020s:artificial intelligence and cyber-physical systems including the Internet of Things.
UNIT IV STUDY GUIDE
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 2
UNIT x STUDY GUIDE
Title
Figure 1: Four Industrial Revolutions from the 1780s to 2020s (Rothaermel, 2024, p. 252)
Clearly, today's world of business is significantly impacted by technological advances. This blurring of
boundaries between the physical, digital, and biological world is referred to as the fourth industrial revolution
(IR). Advances in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), 3D printing, genetic
engineering, quantum computing, and other technologies impact the way work gets done, how products are
produced, and how companies achieve their objectives. Regardless of the company’s size, age, or industry,
advances in technology such as AI are making their way into the daily practices of companies, and
companies must consider the implications of the fourth IR when developing strategic plans.
Clay Christensen (as cited in Larsen, 2016) from Harvard University identified the increased role of innovation
driven by technology as disruptive innovation—it is quicker and fundamentally can change the business
model of a firm. As we consider the four industrial revolution eras how does the fourth IR impact the firm that
you have selected for the course project? What skills do you see as important for employees in an
increasingly technology-reliant world?
Entrepreneurship and Leadership
Entrepreneurs are the change agents who take the risks associated with the commercialization of an
innovation (Rothaermel, 2024). To incorporate a successful innovation system in any firm requires leadership.
Leaders should support the concept of innovation by first recognizing that the skills required in the
organization are dynamic. Leaders must be aware of and react to change, including possible skill gaps in the
work force. The proper recruitment, upskilling, and retention are all important for the success of a firm in
turbulent times. Having the employees in the organization develop and maintain the required skills is
important for innovation. Also, for innovation to be successful, leaders should encourage an entrepreneurial
mindset within the organization in which all stakeholders look to add value to their firm for innovation to be
successful.
Innovation is often considered a part of the industry life cycle concept because it often generates new
industries. For example, technology has enabled an entirely new service delivery that caters to home delivery
of groceries. Essentially, the life cycle of a product includes introduction, growth, shakeout, maturity, and
decline. Product innovation usually occurs in the early stages of the life cycle of the firm; whereas process
innovation is more likely to occur in the latter stages of the life cycle as shown in Chapter 7, Exhibit 7.11:
Features and Strategic Implications of the Industry Life Cycle chart. For example, note that innovation of a
product that is so important to a firm in the introductory part of the life cycle gradually reduces in importance
through the latter stages of the life cycle model.
To support innovation, Rothaermel (2024) suggests that leaders must support moving from controlling
resources to a more open resource orchestration model; moving from an internal focus to a more external
focus for interactions; and changing focus from customer value to ecosystem value.
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 3
UNIT x STUDY GUIDE
Title
Summary
In summary, innovation in today’s hypercompetitive environment is a key part of our strategic planning
processes. It is about continuous improvement and meeting—or exceeding—customer expectations.
Increasingly, innovation to build competitive advantage is driven by technological advances requiring, in many
cases, new employee skills. As discussed, the fourth IR will continue to create challenges and opportunities
for firms. Firms and employees must recognize that the reality of the fourth IR will require new skills to adapt
to the new technological era.
References
de Jong, M., Marston, N., & Roth, E. (2015, April 1). The eight essentials of innovation. McKinsey Quarterly.
https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/the-eight-
essentials-of-innovation
Larson, C. (2016, November 15). Disruptive innovation theory: What it is & 4 key concepts. Harvard Business
School Online’s Business Insights. https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/4-keys-to-understanding-clayton-
christensens-theory-of-disruptive-innovation
Rawpixel (n.d.). Character illustration of people with global network concept [Image]. Freepik.
https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/character-illustration-people-with-global-network-
concept_3585190.htm#query=strategy%20global%20business%20planning&position=2&from_view=
search&track=ais&uuid=eab5dd3f-267d-4ae8-9a3a-5381e987b5ac
Rothaermel, F. T. (2024). Strategic management (6th ed.). McGraw Hill.
https://online.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781265954574
Vector4stock. (n.d.). Business process illustration infographic of business structure from idea to successful
business [Image]. Freepik.
https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/business-process-illustration-infographic-business-structure-from-
idea-successful-business-
project_26195295.htm#query=strategy%20global%20business%20planning&position=34&from_view
=search&track=ais&uuid=eab5dd3f-267d-4ae8-9a3a-5381e987b5ac
Learning Activities (Nongraded)
Nongraded Learning Activities are provided to aid you in your course of study. You do not have to submit
them. If you have questions, contact your instructor for further guidance and information.
Activity: Case Study (Optional)
In Chapter 7, read Chapter Case 7 Part II. This case study illustrates the importance of technology and
disruptive innovation as it relates to Netflix.
In a personal journal, answer the five questions at the end of the case study.
– Course Learning Outcomes for Unit IV
– Required Unit Resources
– Chapter 7: Business Strategy: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Platforms (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
– Unit Lesson
– Lesson: Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
– Innovation
– The Four Industrial Revolutions
– Entrepreneurship and Leadership
– Summary
– References
– Learning Activities (Nongraded)
– Activity: Case Study (Optional)
**## UnitIVJournal.docx**
Unit IV Journal
This one-page journal measures your mastery of ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5.
In a one-page journal, address the following questions:
· How is innovation a key concept in strategy for any global firm? (You may use the global firm you selected in Unit III as an example.)
· What are at least two types of innovation? How are they different?
· What is the role of leadership in innovation?
No APA Style formatting is required for this journal.
**## UnitIV.pdf**
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 1
Course Learning Outcomes for Unit IV
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:
3. Summarize the role of innovation in strategic business planning.
3.3 Explore the importance of the internal and external environment within which firms operate.
3.4 Contrast the models of innovation.
3.5 Explain the role of leadership in innovation.
Required Unit Resources
Chapter 7: Business Strategy: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Platforms (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
This chapter examines the innovation process and the industry life cycle. The various types of innovation are
explored.
Unit Lesson
Lesson: Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
This unit focuses on the important role of innovation and entrepreneurship as it relates to business strategy
and driving competitive advantage.
This unit also examines four industrial revolutions to provide the historical perspective of the evolution of
firms. Rothaermel (2024) discusses the concept of disruption as an important concept in innovation, and he
describes innovation as “the successful introduction of a new product, process, or business model—is a
powerful driver in the competitive process” (p. 246).
Innovation
The innovation process includes an idea, invention, innovation, and limitation. Innovation is “the
commercialization of an invention” (Rothaermel, 2024, p. 249).
The authors, de Jong et. al. (2015), developed an eight-step innovation model based on a survey of more
than 2,500 global CEOs. The eight steps include aspire, choose, discover, evolve, accelerate, scale, extend,
and mobilize. The authors note that innovation is a complex organization-wide effort and attention to these
eight steps in a systematic manner is necessary for success. In that regard, innovation is about a continuous
improvement process designed to sustain competitive advantage.
The Four Industrial Revolutions
Rothaermel (2024) identifies four industrial revolutions: 1780s:—steam power and mechanization;
1870s:electricity, mass production, and assembly lines; 1970s:computers, electronics, and automation; and
2020s:artificial intelligence and cyber-physical systems including the Internet of Things.
UNIT IV STUDY GUIDE
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 2
UNIT x STUDY GUIDE
Title
Figure 1: Four Industrial Revolutions from the 1780s to 2020s (Rothaermel, 2024, p. 252)
Clearly, today's world of business is significantly impacted by technological advances. This blurring of
boundaries between the physical, digital, and biological world is referred to as the fourth industrial revolution
(IR). Advances in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), 3D printing, genetic
engineering, quantum computing, and other technologies impact the way work gets done, how products are
produced, and how companies achieve their objectives. Regardless of the company’s size, age, or industry,
advances in technology such as AI are making their way into the daily practices of companies, and
companies must consider the implications of the fourth IR when developing strategic plans.
Clay Christensen (as cited in Larsen, 2016) from Harvard University identified the increased role of innovation
driven by technology as disruptive innovation—it is quicker and fundamentally can change the business
model of a firm. As we consider the four industrial revolution eras how does the fourth IR impact the firm that
you have selected for the course project? What skills do you see as important for employees in an
increasingly technology-reliant world?
Entrepreneurship and Leadership
Entrepreneurs are the change agents who take the risks associated with the commercialization of an
innovation (Rothaermel, 2024). To incorporate a successful innovation system in any firm requires leadership.
Leaders should support the concept of innovation by first recognizing that the skills required in the
organization are dynamic. Leaders must be aware of and react to change, including possible skill gaps in the
work force. The proper recruitment, upskilling, and retention are all important for the success of a firm in
turbulent times. Having the employees in the organization develop and maintain the required skills is
important for innovation. Also, for innovation to be successful, leaders should encourage an entrepreneurial
mindset within the organization in which all stakeholders look to add value to their firm for innovation to be
successful.
Innovation is often considered a part of the industry life cycle concept because it often generates new
industries. For example, technology has enabled an entirely new service delivery that caters to home delivery
of groceries. Essentially, the life cycle of a product includes introduction, growth, shakeout, maturity, and
decline. Product innovation usually occurs in the early stages of the life cycle of the firm; whereas process
innovation is more likely to occur in the latter stages of the life cycle as shown in Chapter 7, Exhibit 7.11:
Features and Strategic Implications of the Industry Life Cycle chart. For example, note that innovation of a
product that is so important to a firm in the introductory part of the life cycle gradually reduces in importance
through the latter stages of the life cycle model.
To support innovation, Rothaermel (2024) suggests that leaders must support moving from controlling
resources to a more open resource orchestration model; moving from an internal focus to a more external
focus for interactions; and changing focus from customer value to ecosystem value.
BUS 6320, Global Strategic Management 3
UNIT x STUDY GUIDE
Title
Summary
In summary, innovation in today’s hypercompetitive environment is a key part of our strategic planning
processes. It is about continuous improvement and meeting—or exceeding—customer expectations.
Increasingly, innovation to build competitive advantage is driven by technological advances requiring, in many
cases, new employee skills. As discussed, the fourth IR will continue to create challenges and opportunities
for firms. Firms and employees must recognize that the reality of the fourth IR will require new skills to adapt
to the new technological era.
References
de Jong, M., Marston, N., & Roth, E. (2015, April 1). The eight essentials of innovation. McKinsey Quarterly.
https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/the-eight-
essentials-of-innovation
Larson, C. (2016, November 15). Disruptive innovation theory: What it is & 4 key concepts. Harvard Business
School Online’s Business Insights. https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/4-keys-to-understanding-clayton-
christensens-theory-of-disruptive-innovation
Rawpixel (n.d.). Character illustration of people with global network concept [Image]. Freepik.
https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/character-illustration-people-with-global-network-
concept_3585190.htm#query=strategy%20global%20business%20planning&position=2&from_view=
search&track=ais&uuid=eab5dd3f-267d-4ae8-9a3a-5381e987b5ac
Rothaermel, F. T. (2024). Strategic management (6th ed.). McGraw Hill.
https://online.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781265954574
Vector4stock. (n.d.). Business process illustration infographic of business structure from idea to successful
business [Image]. Freepik.
https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/business-process-illustration-infographic-business-structure-from-
idea-successful-business-
project_26195295.htm#query=strategy%20global%20business%20planning&position=34&from_view
=search&track=ais&uuid=eab5dd3f-267d-4ae8-9a3a-5381e987b5ac
Learning Activities (Nongraded)
Nongraded Learning Activities are provided to aid you in your course of study. You do not have to submit
them. If you have questions, contact your instructor for further guidance and information.
Activity: Case Study (Optional)
In Chapter 7, read Chapter Case 7 Part II. This case study illustrates the importance of technology and
disruptive innovation as it relates to Netflix.
In a personal journal, answer the five questions at the end of the case study.
– Course Learning Outcomes for Unit IV
– Required Unit Resources
– Chapter 7: Business Strategy: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Platforms (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
– Unit Lesson
– Lesson: Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ULOs 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5)
– Innovation
– The Four Industrial Revolutions
– Entrepreneurship and Leadership
– Summary
– References
– Learning Activities (Nongraded)
– Activity: Case Study (Optional)