What caused Netflix’s leadership to make each shift? Were the shifts driven from the top or the bottom? How did they decide what to do next? Were the shifts well-planned or did they just “throw things against the wall to see what would stick”? Do the shifts in strategy seem well-planned or haphazard?

Netflix’s Evolving Strategy

This assignment asks you to evaluate the strategic evolution of the Netflix company from 1994 to 2011, as described in the case study for this unit. Although many new changes have occurred with Netflix since this case study was written, it covers a formative period in Netflix’s evolution. As you complete your essay, please respond to the questions according to the context of the years in which Netflix made these decisions.

• Summarize the evolution of Hastings’ strategy through successive business plans. How many strategy revisions did the business have to make, and what were they?
• What caused Netflix’s leadership to make each shift?
• Were the shifts driven from the top or the bottom?
• How did they decide what to do next? Were the shifts well-planned or did they just “throw things against the wall to see what would stick”? Do the shifts in strategy seem well-planned or haphazard?
• How would you characterize the differences between Blockbuster’s and Netflix’s business model?
• Was Netflix disruptive? How? How would you evaluate Blockbuster’s response?
• Is the Netflix’s strategy deliberate or emergent? How do you know?

Submission Requirements

• Written communication: Written communication is free of errors that detract from the overall message.
• APA formatting: Your paper should demonstrate proper APA formatting and style. You do not need to include a cover page or abstract, but be sure to include your name, assignment title, and page number in the running header of each page. Use meaningful section headings to clarify the organization and readability of your paper.
• Number of references: Include a minimum of six references from your unit readings and assigned research; the sources should be appropriately cited throughout your paper and in your reference list.
• Suggested paper length: 700–1000 words.
• Font and font size: Times New Roman, 12 point.

Prior to writing this assignment, please be sure to look at the Netflix’s Evolving Strategy Scoring Guide to learn how to maximize your score. Your paper is due by the end of this week. You may use the resources provided to help you with your research and writing.