Strategic transformations in a disruptive digital environment

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how two media firms, Sky Plc and Pearson Plc, adapted, reconfigured, and transformed their businesses to meet the demands of an operating environment characterized by inexorable changes in digital technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The over-arching vision, corporate strategies, and financial performance for both firms are examined over two business cycles.

Findings

These findings illustrate why firms need to create a portfolio business that takes advantage of the market opportunities created by innovative digital technologies, while off-setting the risks associated with digital disruption.

Practical implications

Business leaders should not dispense with the basic principles of good strategic business unit portfolio management in their attempts to take advantage of the market opportunities provided by a disruptive digital environment.

Originality/value

This paper provides a highly original insight into how two firms placed ambitious levels of growth at the heart of their corporate strategies to seize the market opportunities provided by an increasingly digital operating environment.

Citation

Oliver, J.J. (2018), "Strategic transformations in a disruptive digital environment", Strategic Direction, Vol. 34 No. 5, pp. 5-8. https://doi.org/10.1108/SD-01-2018-0003