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SAP in 2006: Aiming for Global Concert

By Subramanian Rangan
Published 17 Aug 2007
Reference 5390
Topic Strategy
Industry Computer Software
Region Global
Length 17 page(s)
Language English
Inspection copy
6.00
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Summary

The case documents the international development of the world's leading enterprise software maker SAP. It discusses the evolution of the firm from its German roots to international delivery to now global architecture and operations. The core dilemma is how to realize teamwork and innovation on a global basis to sustain profitable growth and advance the firm to the next level.

Teaching objectives

The case can be used in executive and MBA classes to discuss: (i) the challenge of transnational management and distributed specialization; (ii) global teamwork and innovation; and (iii) shifts from centralized delegation to coordinated decentralization.

Keywords
  • RD0707
  • AR2007
  • AR0607
About the author
Rangan

Subramanian Rangan

Professor of Strategy and Management

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