EBS 다큐프라임 - Docuprime_국가경쟁력리포트 제1부 기업이 국가의 힘이다_#004

Summary

The video script highlights the innovative and adaptive nature of companies like IBM and FedEx. IBM, transitioning from PC manufacturing to a solution-driven business, is driven by a culture of innovation and investment in talent, exemplified by their Watson Research Labs. Similarly, FedEx emphasizes a people-first approach, promoting a horizontal organizational structure and focusing on employee well-being to enhance customer service. Both companies showcase the importance of continuous investment in human resources as the foundation for long-term success and competitive advantage in the global market.

Takeaways

• 😀 IBM has transformed from a PC manufacturing company to a solutions provider, selling its PC division to China.
• 😀 IBM's research, such as at the Watson Research Lab, has been instrumental in driving innovation and technological progress.
• 😀 Innovation and constant change are key drivers of IBM’s success, particularly in computer manufacturing and product development.
• 😀 The culture at IBM places high importance on human resources, believing that the key to corporate strength lies in the talent within the organization.
• 😀 IBM offers unique employee benefits, including exemption from layoffs and a focus on the development of their research labs.
• 😀 IBM's culture is structured around horizontal communication, with open spaces for spontaneous meetings and collaboration.
• 😀 Unlike many companies, IBM doesn’t focus on short-term results, which allows it to make long-term investments in research and innovation.
• 😀 IBM invests heavily in research and has a unique approach to funding, enabling its researchers to take calculated risks for long-term success.
• 😀 A successful example of employee investment increasing corporate competitiveness is FedEx, which operates with over 130,000 employees across 22 countries.
• 😀 FedEx’s employee-focused approach includes a flat organizational structure, where even ground-level employees can rise to the CEO position based on merit.
• 😀 FedEx's corporate philosophy emphasizes the 'People, Service, Profit' cycle, where taking care of employees leads to better customer service, which in turn drives profits.

Q & A

What significant change did IBM make in its business model recently?

IBM recently sold its PC division to China and transformed itself into a solutions-based company, focusing more on innovation and research.

What role does innovation play in IBM's corporate strategy?

Innovation is at the core of IBM's corporate strategy. It is seen as the driving force behind the company's growth and its ability to adapt to new challenges in the tech industry.

How has IBM maintained its competitiveness in the industry?

IBM has maintained its competitiveness by constantly innovating and investing in research and development, which has allowed it to evolve and adapt to the changing technological landscape.

What is the significance of IBM's Watson Research Center in the company's success?

The IBM Watson Research Center has played a key role in the company's success by leading the development of cutting-edge technologies and fostering innovation, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence and data processing.

How does IBM prioritize human resources in its innovation process?

IBM places a high emphasis on human resources as the key to innovation. The company values its employees and ensures that they have the freedom and resources to contribute to long-term research and development efforts.

What makes IBM's research environment unique?

IBM's research environment is unique because of its open and horizontal structure, where employees have the freedom to collaborate and contribute to discussions across all levels, fostering creativity and innovation.

How does IBM's organizational structure contribute to its innovation?

IBM’s horizontal organizational structure allows for greater collaboration and idea-sharing among employees, which helps drive innovation. This structure encourages a free exchange of ideas and supports long-term, high-risk research projects.

What are some characteristics of the employee management system at IBM?

IBM’s employee management system is characterized by its focus on empowering employees, offering them opportunities for professional growth, and fostering an environment where they can contribute to the company’s long-term research and success.

What is the main business philosophy at FedEx?

FedEx's business philosophy revolves around the concept of 'People, Service, Profit' (PSP). The company believes that by taking care of its employees, it can provide outstanding customer service, which leads to greater business success and profits.

How does FedEx view the relationship between employees and company success?

FedEx views employees as the most important asset of the company. By prioritizing employee well-being and investing in their development, FedEx believes it can enhance customer service, which directly leads to increased profits and business growth.