Strategic alternative and Recommended strategy

As one of the most valuable companies in the world, Apple shows that its generic strategy is a major
determinant of competitive advantage against other firms like Samsung, Google, Amazon, Microsoft,
Dell, HP, Lenovo, Sony, IBM, BlackBerry, Huawei, LG, and even Walmart with its content distribution
service, Vudu. Apple's generic strategy of broad differentiation adds competitive advantage by making
the business stand out. Differentiation in product function and design supports the firm's goal of leading
the market through technological innovation. Innovation is at the heart of Apple Inc.'s business.

REFERENCE

Akan, O., Allen, R. S., Helms, M. M., & Spralls III, S. A. (2006). Critical tactics for implementing Porter’s
generic strategies. Journal of Business Strategy, 27(1), 43-53.

Allen, R. S., & Helms, M. M. (2006). Linking strategic practices and organizational performance to
Porter’s generic strategies. Business Process Management Journal, 12(4), 433-454.

Apple Inc. – Form 10-K.

Apple Inc.’s Website.

Bajarin, T. (2014, July 14). Understanding Apple’s ‘Continuity’ Strategy. Time.

Parnell, J. A. (2006). Generic strategies after two decades: A reconceptualization of competitive strategy.
Management Decision, 44(8), 1139-1154.

Pretorius, M. (2008). When Porter’s generic strategies are not enough: Complementary strategies for
turnaround situations. Journal of Business Strategy, 29(6), 19-28.

U.S. Department of Commerce – International Trade Administration – The Media and Entertainment
Industry in the United States.

U.S. Department of Commerce – International Trade Administration – The Semiconductors Industry in

the United States.

U.S. Department of Commerce – International Trade Administration – The Software and Information
Technology Services Industry in the United States.