What are some examples of strategic thinking in action?

1 Netflix's content strategy

Netflix is a global leader in streaming entertainment, with over 200 million subscribers and a diverse catalog of original and licensed content. How did Netflix achieve this success? One of the key factors is its strategic thinking in content creation and distribution. Netflix uses data and analytics to understand its customers' preferences, habits, and behaviors, and then tailors its content accordingly. It also invests heavily in producing original content that appeals to different markets and genres, and leverages its global reach to distribute it widely. Netflix's content strategy enables it to differentiate itself from competitors, retain and attract customers, and generate revenue.

2 IKEA's sustainability vision

IKEA is a well-known furniture retailer that offers affordable, stylish, and functional products. But IKEA is not just about selling furniture. It also has a clear vision of becoming a circular and climate-positive business by 2030. This means that IKEA aims to reduce its environmental impact, use renewable and recycled materials, and offer services that extend the life of its products. IKEA's sustainability vision is an example of strategic thinking that aligns with its values, mission, and purpose. It also helps IKEA to create value for its customers, stakeholders, and society, and to adapt to the changing needs and expectations of the market.

3 Spotify's expansion into podcasts

Spotify is a popular music streaming platform that has over 300 million users and 60 million songs. But Spotify is not satisfied with just being a music provider. It also wants to become the world's leading audio platform, and that includes podcasts. Spotify has been expanding into podcasts by acquiring podcast networks, studios, and platforms, such as Gimlet, Anchor, and The Ringer. It has also been developing exclusive and original podcasts, such as The Michelle Obama Podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, and Renegades: Born in the USA. Spotify's expansion into podcasts is an example of strategic thinking that leverages its core competencies, diversifies its offerings, and creates new sources of growth and engagement.

4 Amazon's customer obsession

Amazon is one of the most successful and influential companies in the world, with a wide range of products and services, from e-commerce and cloud computing to artificial intelligence and entertainment. What drives Amazon's innovation and growth? One of the main factors is its customer obsession. Amazon's customer obsession is the principle of putting the customer first in everything it does, and constantly seeking to understand and exceed their expectations. Amazon's customer obsession is an example of strategic thinking that guides its decision-making, prioritization, and experimentation. It also helps Amazon to create loyal and satisfied customers, and to discover new opportunities and markets.

5 Disney's acquisition strategy

Disney is a global media and entertainment giant, with iconic brands, franchises, and characters, such as Mickey Mouse, Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar. How did Disney become such a dominant force in the industry? One of the key factors is its acquisition strategy. Disney has been acquiring other media and entertainment companies that complement its existing assets, expand its reach, and enhance its value proposition. Some of the notable acquisitions include Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, 21st Century Fox, and National Geographic. Disney's acquisition strategy is an example of strategic thinking that strengthens its competitive advantage, diversifies its portfolio, and increases its fan base.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?