This case introduces the application of blue ocean strategy in the context of managing a business portfolio at the corporate level. Apple created future profits and growth not by exploiting existing demand, but by reconstructing industry boundaries to create new market space and unlock latent demand.

Nokia has dominated the mobile handset business for over 20 years. But as mobile technologies evolves and the consumer focus shiftsfrom handset design towards software and content platforms, it creates an opportunity for new players, such as RIM, Apple and Google, to enter the market and challenge Nokia’s position.

The (A) case involves a strategic alliance between an electric utility and a firm developing pollution control technology under considerable regulatory and technological uncertainty. The deal structure involves a licensing agreement and a minority equity purchase structured as an option.