The Airbnb Case Struck Me As Fascinating For Several Reasons

The Airbnbcase Struck Me As Fascinating For Several Reasons They Ar

The Airbnb case struck me as fascinating for several reasons. They are relatively new to the 'hotel' industry; they started meagerly; they've grown exponentially; and they have issues others in the 'hotel' industry do not. The case: Airbnb: Disrupting the Hotel Industry, discusses the growth of Airbnb from its founding in 2008 to having over 7 million listings in 220+ countries and regions. The founders initially started by providing places to sleep during major events like SXSW and the 2008 Democratic National Convention. However, the company did not have a sustainable business model until it received help from a Silicon Valley incubator. That experience prepared Airbnb to successfully enter the global hotel industry with its disruptive business model. In 2019, Airbnb was valued at $31 billion, despite being a private firm.

For comprehensive understanding, the case encourages analyzing Airbnb through various strategic frameworks, including the PESTEL model, Porter's Five Forces, co-opetition strategies, and the VRIO framework, among other concepts from chapters 3 and 4 of the course textbook. While it is not necessary to address all concepts in detail, it is essential to focus on one significant concept from these frameworks to analyze Airbnb's external environment or internal resources.

In your discussion, you should consider the applicability of these models to Airbnb’s growth and competitive positioning. A balanced analysis involves identifying core strategic issues, proposing alternative solutions to challenges, and justifying the most appropriate course of action based on analytical insights. Your post should be approximately 500 words, substantiated with at least two reputable external sources in proper APA format.

Furthermore, your initial discussion should demonstrate clarity in analyzing the core strategic problem, introduce innovative yet relevant points, and rationally defend your perspective. Remember, every initial post functions as a mini case analysis, reflecting your critical thinking and understanding of strategic management principles.

The assignment requires applying the strategic management process, including problem analysis, solution development, and justification, to Airbnb’s current situation as a disruptive innovator in the hospitality industry.