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  • July 2010 (Revised May 2016)
  • Case
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Werner von Siemens and the Electric Telegraph

By: Geoffrey G. Jones and Bjoern von Siemens
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:27
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Abstract

This case describes the nineteenth century founding by Werner Siemens of the Siemens electrical business in Germany. Werner's dual role as inventor and entrepreneur is explored as he created one of the world's first multinational enterprises, whose growth initially rested on its pioneering role in the new telegraph industry. Werner sent his brothers to open businesses in Great Britain and Russia, and the case explores the advantages and disadvantages of family business as a form of organization, as well as the challenges growing it poses for such family firms.

Keywords

Business Organization; Family Business; Entrepreneurship; Multinational Firms and Management; Business History; Growth and Development Strategy; Electronics Industry; Telecommunications Industry; Germany

Citation

Jones, Geoffrey G., and Bjoern von Siemens. "Werner von Siemens and the Electric Telegraph." Harvard Business School Case 811-004, July 2010. (Revised May 2016.)
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About The Author

Geoffrey G. Jones

General Management
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Related Work

    • October 2015 (Revised September 2016)
    • Faculty Research

    Werner von Siemens and the Electric Telegraph

    By: Geoffrey Jones and Jessica Burch
    • July 2010 (Revised May 2016)
    • Faculty Research

    Werner von Siemens and the Electric Telegraph

    By: Geoffrey G. Jones and Bjoern von Siemens
Related Work
  • Werner von Siemens and the Electric Telegraph By: Geoffrey Jones and Jessica Burch
  • Werner von Siemens and the Electric Telegraph By: Geoffrey G. Jones and Bjoern von Siemens
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