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  • November 1998 (Revised February 1999)
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Microsoft Office: Finding the Suite Spot

By: Stefan H. Thomke and Steven Sinofsky
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:22 
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Abstract

Describes a key decision-making process within Microsoft's Office products division. At a time when the PC software business has a great deal of uncertainty, Microsoft's management has to make a key decision regarding the future of software suites. A strengthening of suite development as a common platform would require significant organizational, process, and strategic alignments that may weaken the individual software divisions. Focuses on: 1) software development, with an emphasis on multi-applications suites; 2) different models of product innovation (common platform versus individual elements); 3) managerial challenges in aligning processes and the organization of several independent development units.

Keywords

Decisions; Software; Strategic Planning; Organizational Design; Organizational Change And Adaptation; Product Development; Managerial Roles; Growth And Development Strategy; Risk And Uncertainty; Goals And Objectives; Multi-sided Platforms; Innovation And Management; Computer Industry; Information Technology Industry

Citation

Thomke, Stefan H., and Steven Sinofsky. "Microsoft Office: Finding the Suite Spot." Harvard Business School Case 699-046, November 1998. (Revised February 1999.)
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About The Author

Stefan H. Thomke

Technology and Operations Management
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