Bearbeite SoSe13_ATIM und vergleiche deine Lösungen. Aus dem Kurs Technologie- und Innovationsmanagement an der Philipps-Universität Marburg (Uni Marbug).
The MR Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH is a medium-sized company based in Regensburg. MR develops and produces tap changers for power transformers. In this market segment, the company has positioned itself as a hidden champion in the global market since its founding in 1868.1 The basis of all resistance quick-disconnect switches manufactured worldwide today goes back to the patent for "uninterrupted switching under load by two counter-rotating power switches with pre-contacts" filed by MR in 1926.
MR maintains twelve sales and service companies and five production subsidiaries abroad. In 2011, the company generated sales of €570 million with 1,700 employees in Germany and 700 employees abroad.
IPR management is of high strategic importance for MR. An unwanted outflow of intellectual property is always associated with the risk of losing the competitive position as an innovation leader in the global market. Discuss the basic considerations as to why intellectual property should be protected. Also discuss the functions and economic costs of IPR.
MR uses both formal and informal protection instruments to protect its intellectual property. Patents are particularly important. Describe what is meant by a patent. Present two other formal protection instruments and discuss the difference from the patent.
Present an informal protection instrument of your choice. Then compare the patent with your chosen informal protection instrument. Then justify the possibility of a combination with a patent using a self-chosen example!
You are familiar with the basic ideas of the resource-based approach. What are the core statements of the approach and what is meant in this context by the axiom of heterogeneous resource endowment?
Which three different categories or levels of resources are distinguished in the resource-oriented approach? Explain the three resource categories using the example of MR.
Distinguish the resource-based approach from the more market-oriented theories in strategic management (e.g. Porter). (Modified question)
The societal shift towards a pronounced public ecological awareness has long-term effects on MR's innovation strategy. New generations of power generators for renewable energy forms will gain strategic relevance in the future. For this, the company needs access to new technologies.
What fundamental access possibilities to new technologies are available to MR and how do you assess their advantages and disadvantages for the company? Be specific in your explanations!
Power generators for renewable energy forms are in an early phase of the product life cycle in Germany. First, discuss the basics of the general life cycle concept. Then explain two life cycle courses that deviate from the ideal type and give a justified example for each.
The life cycle concept has been criticized a lot. In particular, the relationship between the different aggregation levels (industry versus product versus technology life cycles) regularly causes irritation. Explain this relationship and include the current life cycle phases of the industries, products and technologies relevant to MR in your explanations.