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Case
| HBS Case Collection
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2008
System on a Chip 2008: Global Unichip Corp.
by
Willy C. Shih, Chintay Shih, Chen-Fu Chien and Yuan-Chieh Chang
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Abstract
Though much of the semiconductor industry has shifted to a horizontal model, complexity driven by technological evolution is driving a shift in the perceived boundaries in the value chain. Global Unichip sees itself as a "virtual integrated device manufacturer," a throwback to the vertically integrated model that fell out of favor for most chips. The case offers an opportunity to examine a highly modular industry and the impact of technology shifts on those boundaries, with significant implications for the incumbents.
Keywords: Customer Value and Value Chain;
Horizontal Integration;
Vertical Integration;
Boundaries;
Semiconductor Industry;