Metro Group - 2003
1. Metro implemented many new technologies simultaneously in a single store. Compare this approach to Wal-Mart’s (which is to implement one new technology at a time in a few stores and then, if successful, expand it rapidly throughout all stores).
A. List and briefly explain three specific major advantages of the Metro approach.
B. List and briefly explain three specific major advantages of the Wal-Mart approach.
2. Metro lists five (5) specific objectives (top of page 3). For each objective (number them): Was the objective accomplished? Fully support your answer.
3. RFID
A. What is RFID?
B. List and briefly explain three specific important advantages of RFID versus bar codes in a retail application such as Metro.
C. List and briefly explain three specific important disadvantages of RFID versus bar codes in a retail application such as Metro.
4. WLAN
A. List and briefly explain three specific important advantages of using a WLAN (versus the standard wired terminals) for this specific application.
B. List and briefly explain three specific important disadvantages of using a WLAN (versus the standard wired terminals) for this specific application.
5. Project management was outsourced to Intel rather than being handled by Metro’s own IT department. In terms of this specific project:
A. List and briefly explain three specific major advantages of outsourcing the total project management.
B. List and briefly explain three specific major disadvantages of outsourcing the total project management.
C. Was this the best solution for Metro? Why or why not? Be specific and complete in support for your position.
6. Is the system described a strategic information system? If you say yes, you must explain specifically what the strategic advantage is and how the system provides it. If you say no, you must fully support why the system is not strategic. You must use the criteria discussed in class and fully support your answer.
See FAQ for answers to frequently asked questions about this case.
- Q3 - R. S. Kulzick - 10/05/2008 -