GEEK SQUAD
Case 1
GEEK SQUAD: A NEW BUSINESS
FOR A NEW ENVIRONMENT
1. What are the key environmental forces that created an opportunity for Robert Stephens to start the Geek Squad? I believe the Key environmental forces were (technological & competitive) His experience as a consultant led him to realize that most people needed help with technology, Robert Stephens stated : “ we have all experienced trying to keep up with the many changes in our environment, particularly those related to computers, technology, software, communication, and entertainment. Generally, consumers have found it difficult to install, operate, and use many of the electronic products available today”. I believe many people cannot work or set up the products they buy from stores, this gave Robert a great opportunity. Since he turned down a scholarship to the Art Institute he used his skills for helping people in this day and age that do not want to spend hours reading a manual because he can do that for you.
2. What changes in the purchasing patterns of (a) all consumers, and (b) women made the acquisition of Geek Squad particularly important for Best Buy? Best Buy had observed very high return rates for most of its complex products. Shoppers would be excited about new products, purchase them and take them home, get frustrated trying to make them actually work, and then return them to the store demanding a refund. In fact, Best Buy research revealed that consumers were beginning to see service as a critical element of the purchase. The partnership was an excellent match.
3. Based on the case information and what you know about consumer electronics, conduct an environmental scan for Geek Squad to identify key trends. For each of the five environmental forces (social, economic, technological, competitive, and regulatory), identify trends likely to influence Geek Squad in the near future.
Social – I believe thru social media will benefit the Geek Squad greatly given that millions of people
GEEK SQUAD: A NEW BUSINESS
FOR A NEW ENVIRONMENT
1. What are the key environmental forces that created an opportunity for Robert Stephens to start the Geek Squad? I believe the Key environmental forces were (technological & competitive) His experience as a consultant led him to realize that most people needed help with technology, Robert Stephens stated : “ we have all experienced trying to keep up with the many changes in our environment, particularly those related to computers, technology, software, communication, and entertainment. Generally, consumers have found it difficult to install, operate, and use many of the electronic products available today”. I believe many people cannot work or set up the products they buy from stores, this gave Robert a great opportunity. Since he turned down a scholarship to the Art Institute he used his skills for helping people in this day and age that do not want to spend hours reading a manual because he can do that for you.
2. What changes in the purchasing patterns of (a) all consumers, and (b) women made the acquisition of Geek Squad particularly important for Best Buy? Best Buy had observed very high return rates for most of its complex products. Shoppers would be excited about new products, purchase them and take them home, get frustrated trying to make them actually work, and then return them to the store demanding a refund. In fact, Best Buy research revealed that consumers were beginning to see service as a critical element of the purchase. The partnership was an excellent match.
3. Based on the case information and what you know about consumer electronics, conduct an environmental scan for Geek Squad to identify key trends. For each of the five environmental forces (social, economic, technological, competitive, and regulatory), identify trends likely to influence Geek Squad in the near future.
Social – I believe thru social media will benefit the Geek Squad greatly given that millions of people