This case is a short version of the evolution of Apple Computer. Two young men, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, founded Apple Computer. These two men developed ideas that were way ahead of their time. Jobs and Wozniak diverged in their entrepreneurial styles. Eventually, Wozniak left Apple. Jobs was very driven. He wanted to be the best. Even though he praised his team, Jobs pushed them through long hours against impossible deadlines. This intense personality became his downfall. In 1985, Steve Jobs was voted out of the company by the board of directors.
1. Based on what you've read so far, how do you think Steve Jobs viewed Apple stakeholders? With the information provided, it seems that Mr. Jobs was on a personal quest. Apple Computer was his baby. He did whatever he thought was necessary to make Apple a formidable force in the computer industry. In this aspect, it looks like he didn't care about the stakeholders. He did what he wanted, no questions asked.
2. Jobs referred to the Mac team as gladiators. How did this image relate to the Apple corporate culture? Jobs believed that he was fostering a spirited, revolutionary culture. It made the public think that the workers were dedicated and willing to work hard. In reality, the workers were exhausted and burned out. He didn't realize all of the stress he was putting on the employees. Stress is an important factor in jobs and can be the key ingredient that causes employees to lose interest and/or want to leave an organization completely. .
3. What steps might Apple take to become a global corporation? To truly be a global corporation, Apple would need to set up subordinate offices in foreign countries and have them run by managers from that country. This would enhance their opportunities to market and develop an interpersonal relationship.
4. In what ways do you think the entrepreneurs Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak have been important to the American economy? These gentlemen were two of the forerunners toward the development of home computers.
