Week 12: Reading Reflection (Chapter 13)

1). I was most surprised by the section on the “Fab Four” companies. I would definitely consider Apple, Facebook, Google, and Amazon to be the best in each of their respective fields, but it was interesting to get each of their histories and relate them to the entrepreneurship process. Each of these companies have been special since the beginning in terms of creativity and originality, but pointing out what specific strategies and innovations have made them successful was unique.

2). Nothing in particular was confusing in this chapter. A lot of these concepts build off of many things we have learned in the past, so it was fairly straightforward. I would have to say the most complex section would be the entrepreneurial strategy matrix because you are choosing an appropriate strategy based on the existing risk and innovation levels. The author did a good job explaining the concepts in this chapter though.

3). My first question would be why is it important to differentiate between the entrepreneurial and administrative and entrepreneurial point of view? He elaborated on the differences between the two, but it seems to me that working to better one often improves the other as well, so why make the distinction? My second question would be if the author himself ever encountered the growth wall in his career, and how he worked to overcome it? I think many people encounter obstacles in life, both personally and professionally, so what struggles did he face along the way?

4). I partially disagree with “fatal vision #3” when discussing strategic planning. The author states that one should not pursue an unattainable competitive position because if the venture succeeds, competitive advantage cannot be sustained. While I understand where he is going with this, I somewhat disagree in the way it’s worded I guess. I think you should always aim high and allow room for growth, just be smart and realistic, especially in fast-growing industries. I think it doesn’t hurt to have big dreams as long as you don’t get too far ahead of yourself.