Competing in the Age of Digital Convergence
- 1 July 1996
- journal article
- Published by SAGE Publications in California Management Review
- Vol. 38 (4) , 31-53
- https://doi.org/10.2307/41165853
Abstract
The topic of convergence has been around for decades. Forecasters have long predicted the coming of a digital age, where semiconductors, computing, communications, and other forms of electronics would converge into overlapping industries. This article explores the technological foundations of digital convergence and the managerial requirements for success. It argues that mastering digital convergence does not require a magical new set of technologies. Too many companies have sought, and failed, to master digital convergence with a big technological breakthrough or a grand acquisition. Instead, firms should adopt a strategy that I summarize in the acronym CHESS, which stands for c̱reative combinations, ẖorizontal solutions, e̱xternalities and standards, s̱cale and bundling, and new production techniques called s̱ystem-focused development.Keywords
This publication has 1 reference indexed in Scilit:
- Technological Discontinuities and Dominant Designs: A Cyclical Model of Technological ChangeAdministrative Science Quarterly, 1990