Publications
Publications
- May 2024
- HBS Case Collection
DRSi (B)
By: Richard S. Ruback and Royce Yudkoff
Abstract
Pre-Abstract: Instructors should consider the timing of making videos available to students, as they may reveal key case details.
Abstract: In March of 2019, Jen Ransom Fuller purchased DRSi. DRSi, located in Bellevue, Washington, printed and reproduced architectural plans and drawings. Fuller planned to use her first year of ownership to learn the business and to run it in much the same way as the seller. From March 2019 through January 2020 the business performed much as Fuller expected. However, on February 29th, there were reports of the first recognized COVID-19 outbreak in the country, which started at Life Care Center in Kirkland, Washington, just a few miles away from the company's Bellevue location. The outbreak dominated the local and national news, but it was unclear if COVID-19 would spread and what its impact would be. As the pandemic continued, Fuller had to make challenging decisions regarding staffing, operations, and safety protocols.
Abstract: In March of 2019, Jen Ransom Fuller purchased DRSi. DRSi, located in Bellevue, Washington, printed and reproduced architectural plans and drawings. Fuller planned to use her first year of ownership to learn the business and to run it in much the same way as the seller. From March 2019 through January 2020 the business performed much as Fuller expected. However, on February 29th, there were reports of the first recognized COVID-19 outbreak in the country, which started at Life Care Center in Kirkland, Washington, just a few miles away from the company's Bellevue location. The outbreak dominated the local and national news, but it was unclear if COVID-19 would spread and what its impact would be. As the pandemic continued, Fuller had to make challenging decisions regarding staffing, operations, and safety protocols.
Keywords
Acquisition; Small Business; Cost vs Benefits; Decisions; Business Education; Corporate Entrepreneurship; Leadership Style; Leading Change; Business or Company Management; Problems and Challenges; Health Pandemics; Selection and Staffing; Employee Relationship Management; Production; Logistics; Safety; Washington (state, US); United States
Citation
Ruback, Richard S., and Royce Yudkoff. " DRSi (B)." Harvard Business School Multimedia/Video Supplement 224-718, May 2024.