Case | HBS Case Collection | 2004 (Revised from original 2003 version)

Novartis: The Challenge of Success (B)

by Sandra J. Sucher and Stacy McManus

Abstract

When Dr. Daniel Vasella learned of the early Phase 1 trial results, he immediately decided what course of action Novartis would take. Students will be able to examine and assess the concrete steps, and the rationale behind them, that Novartis took in response to this challenge. Focuses not on morality versus immorality but on principled decision making, action, and the practical implications of making good on a moral decision.

Keywords: Decision Making; Moral Sensibility; Innovation and Invention; Distribution; Product Development; Production; Problems and Challenges; Research and Development; Biotechnology Industry; Pharmaceutical Industry;

Citation:

Sucher, Sandra J., and Stacy McManus. "Novartis: The Challenge of Success (B)." Harvard Business School Case 603-044, October 2004. (Revised from original April 2003 version.)