Abstract

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<jats:title content-type="abstract-subheading">Purpose</jats:title>
<jats:p>This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.</jats:p>
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<jats:title content-type="abstract-subheading">Design/methodology/approach</jats:title>
<jats:p>This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.</jats:p>
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<jats:title content-type="abstract-subheading">Findings</jats:title>
<jats:p>For long enough, manufacturers could succeed just by sticking to a tried-and-trusted formula. Pretty much all they had to do was design and launch products that were far better than anything rivals could muster. Product superiority meant high fives all round. It is not that simple anymore though. Differentiation based on product quality alone has become much harder to achieve. As a result, such firms have to find new ways of increasing the value of their offerings to keep customers satisfied. Adding services into the mix has enabled many manufacturers to tick this particular box. Finding services that benefit clients and generate additional revenue for the company has provided a new lease of life in numerous cases.</jats:p>
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<jats:title content-type="abstract-subheading">Practical implications</jats:title>
<jats:p>The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations.</jats:p>
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<jats:title content-type="abstract-subheading">Originality/value</jats:title>
<jats:p>The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.</jats:p>
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