Case Study Assignment

Read the case and then respond to the questions given below. In addition to
using the case study provided, research the company further to find any relevant
events that have transpired since the writing of the case study. Use the
company's website, Internet search engines such as Google, online data services,
or other sources to locate the latest articles about the company including press
releases and current financial information. Be sure to cite all sources according
to APA guidelines. Please limit your analysis to four pages, double-spaced.

Questions

1. Amazon’s business operations depend heavily upon the use and application of
technology. Review the following quote *(from Jeff Bezos) found in the case
study, and comment on the wide variety of technologies employed in Amazon’s
operations. Focus on how these technologies act as strengths and contribute to
competitive success.

We use high-performance transactions systems, complex rendering and

object caching, workflow and queuing systems, business intelligence and data
analytics, machine learning and pattern recognition, neural networks and
probabilistic decision making, and a wide variety of other techniques[. . .].
Many of the problems we face have no textbook solutions, and so we—happily
— invent new approaches. [. . .] Technology infuses all of our teams, all of our
processes, our decision- making, and our approach to innovation in each of our
businesses. It is deeply integrated into everything we do. Invention is in our
DNA and technology is the fundamental tool we wield to evolve and improve
every aspect of the experience we provide our customers.”

2.Discuss the significance of the leadership of Jeff Bezos to Amazon’s business

strategies. Be both specific and thorough in your response.

3.Conduct a SWOT analysis of Amazon. What outcomes of the analysis stand

out, and how do the identified outcomes influence the business success of
Amazon? Be specific, and provide an example to support your
conclusion.
4.Conduct a value chain analysis using the example within “The Concept of a
Company Value Chain” in your text as a guide. What conclusions can you
draw from your analysis?

5.Patrick O’Brien, a lead analyst at Verdict Retail is quoted in the case study
saying: “They’ve [Amazon] managed to get top of mind on every
category without doing anything creative – Amazon’s 20 years isn’t a
marketing story, it’s all about availability and scale.” Do you agree or
disagree with O’Brien’s assessment? Explain your response and provide
at least one example that supports your perspective.