Assignment 2: Scanners And Xerox With The Advent Of S 709818

Assignment 2 Scanners And Xeroxwith The Advent Of Scanners And The UN

Research the issues faced by Xerox from 2000–2010 and the solutions found using the assigned readings, the Argosy University online library resources, and the Internet. Specifically review the company’s annual report at the following: Xerox Corporation. Respond to the following: Identify multiple business pressures on Xerox. Describe some of the company’s response strategies. Identify the role of IT as a contributor to the business technology pressures (for example, obsolescence). Identify the role of IT as a facilitator of Xerox’s critical response activities. Support your positions with reasons and examples based on your research. Write a 3–5-page paper in Word format.

Paper For Above instruction

Xerox Corporation faced significant challenges between 2000 and 2010, a period marked by technological advancements, shifting market demands, and intense competition. These issues compelled Xerox to reevaluate its business strategies, leverage its technological capabilities, and adapt swiftly to maintain its market relevance. This paper explores the various pressures experienced by Xerox during this period, their responses, and the integral role information technology (IT) played both as a source of pressure and as an enabler of strategic responses.

Business Pressures on Xerox (2000–2010)

The early 2000s presented Xerox with multiple business pressures, notably technological obsolescence, declining demand for traditional photocopiers, and escalating competition from both established players and emerging digital firms. The advent of scanners, digital document management systems, and portable Document Format (PDF) technology significantly transformed enterprise document handling, reducing reliance on bulky and costly photocopiers. Also, the rise of competitors such as HP and Canon, with aggressive pricing and innovative offerings, eroded Xerox’s market share. Furthermore, market shifts toward digital workflows demanded new solutions, challenging Xerox’s traditional business model based on copiers and printers.

Response Strategies by Xerox

In response, Xerox embarked on strategic transformations focused on innovation, diversification, and digital services. The company shifted from solely producing hardware to providing comprehensive document management solutions, including digital imaging, workflow automation, and services for enterprise clients. A critical part of this strategy was investing in emerging digital technologies, such as multifunction devices, cloud-based document sharing, and IT-enabled managed print services, which allowed Xerox to reposition itself as a provider of integrated solutions rather than just hardware. Additionally, Xerox acquired business process outsourcing and document management firms to expand its service portfolio, exemplifying a diversification away from traditional copying devices.

The Role of IT as a Contributor to Business Technology Pressures

IT contributed to Xerox’s technological pressures during this period primarily through rapid innovation cycles that rendered existing hardware and software obsolete—tech obsolescence. As digital technology rapidly evolved, older Xerox hardware became less competitive, forcing the company to continuously update or redesign its offerings. Furthermore, the proliferation of digital document formats and online sharing meant that Xerox’s traditional hardware solutions faced diminishing demand, a direct consequence of IT-driven innovations. This inexorable pace of technological change created pressure to constantly invest in new IT infrastructure and R&D, often increasing operational costs and creating strategic dilemmas.

The Role of IT as a Facilitator of Critical Response Activities

Contrarily, IT also emerged as a vital facilitator of Xerox’s strategic responses. The adoption of digital technologies enabled the company to develop new product lines like multifunction printers, networked document systems, and cloud-based solutions. These innovations were powered by advanced IT infrastructure supporting Research & Development, supply chain management, and customer service systems. IT enabled Xerox to streamline operations, improve product customization, and deliver integrated document solutions efficiently. Moreover, digital analytics and enterprise software facilitated better market insights, customer relationship management, and enhanced decision-making, which proved crucial for Xerox’s adaptive strategies.

Conclusion

Between 2000 and 2010, Xerox faced significant industry transformation driven by technological advances, market evolution, and intensifying competition. The company responded with strategic shifts towards digital solutions, diversification, and service-oriented offerings, leveraging IT as both a challenge and an enabler. While IT contributed to pressures through rapid obsolescence, it also served as a key facilitator of innovation and organizational adaptation. Xerox’s experience exemplifies how technological integration is pivotal in maintaining competitiveness amid disruptive innovation.

References

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• Kim, W. C., & Mauborgne, R. (2005). Blue Ocean Strategy. Harvard Business Review, 82(10), 76-84.
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• Yates, J. (2009). The Role of IT in Organizational Change. Information Systems Journal, 19(4), 333–354.