1) What was the biggest surprise for you in the reading? In other words, what did you read that stood out the most as different from your expectations?
- The difference in industry profitability. Now that I think about it, it makes sense. I didn't think that the soft drink industry would be more profitable than the airline industry. I definitely wouldn't have guessed that it was six times more profitable. Plane tickets are much more expensive. Although, soft drinks are sold everywhere. Including on airplanes. It would add up.
2) Identify at least one part of the reading that was confusing to you.
- Compliments versus substitutes can be a little confusing at first. Complimentary, meaning "paired" with something. Substitute, as in "replacing" something.
3) If you were able to ask two questions to the author, what would you ask? Why?
- I thought it was interesting to use the term "sum" while talking about rivalry competing on the same dimensions. 'Zero sum' and 'positive sum' were brought up. I wasn't sure if this was just talking in terms of profitability. What did Porter mean by this?
- How did Porter come up with the five forces? Was it experience? I thought this was a relevant question to ask. The five forces that shape strategy is well thought out. Everything is clear and makes perfect sense.
4) Was there anything you think the author was wrong about? Where do you disagree with what she or he said? How?
- There wasn't anything in particular that I disagreed with the author. Most concepts were explanatory. Except, about the 'sum' term while talking about profitability. I can add a relation to complimentary products. Electric and "smart" cars are growing. There are still many places that need to adjust for this new market. Charging stations are needed to be placed with services and retailers. Without this change, electric cars won't be able to grow.
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