Publications
Publications
- November 1992 (Revised December 1992)
- HBS Case Collection
Deere & Co. (A): The Computer Aided Manufacturing Services Division - A Window to the World (Abridged)
By: Robert H. Hayes
Abstract
The Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Services Division of John Deere has just received approval to sell their software and computer systems to external customers. These tools, initially developed for internal use, have been widely used throughout Deere. Still, selling software represents a major departure from the John Deere tradition of heavy equipment manufacturing. Can the technologically focused group adjust to the new demands of external customers without destroying its momentum in developing new products for internal use? What are the potential benefits and costs of this new venture, both for the division and the company as a whole?
Keywords
Information Infrastructure; Applications and Software; Machinery and Machining; Technological Innovation; Markets; Marketing Strategy; Product Launch; Outcome or Result; Computer Industry; Manufacturing Industry
Citation
Hayes, Robert H. "Deere & Co. (A): The Computer Aided Manufacturing Services Division - A Window to the World (Abridged)." Harvard Business School Case 693-051, November 1992. (Revised December 1992.)