Dozens of authors have written about the epic success story of the California based technology company Apple Inc. (“Apple”). Over its history, Apple has always been known as a pioneer in innovative technology design, a temple where artistic creation merges with technology geekiness. The following analysis provides an analytical appraisal of certain aspects of Apple Inc. based on information provided in the case “Apple Inc. in 2012”.
To be make it simple, Apple is a personal computer (“PC”) company developing software and hardware, each part of a vast integrated diversified product portfolio. While it does employ amongst the most skilled computer engineers and designers to develop sophisticated intellectual property, the company’s central principle can be defined in very few terms: it is an industry innovator. Apple’s main charismatic leader Steve Jobs said “Our job is to figure out what they’re going to want before they do”. Put simply, it means that Management constantly re-invents its targets to ensure that they are starting the movement towards the next hit. Apple’s designers focus on creating value; costs are controlled, but not prioritized over ingenuity. As a result, in 2011, when competitors marketing low cost devices maintained a gross margin (“GM”) close to 20%, Apple was able to charge premium pricing and generate GM over 40%. That is, Apple’s succeeded in differentiating its products from the mass to enhance consumers’ loyalty.
Steven Paul "Steve" Jobs was an American businessman, designer and inventor. He is best known as the co-founder, chairman, and chief executive officer of Apple Inc. Jobs also co-founded and served as chief executive of Pixar Animation Studios he became a member of the board of directors of The Walt Disney Company in 2006, when Disney acquired Pixar. His first major success and certainly