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Navigating the M-Form: Product Scope Review and the development of the General Electric Computer Department

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  • Roy Edwards
  • Anthony Gandy

Abstract

This article seeks to explore the process whereby General Electric (GE) entered the computer industry during the mid-late 1950s. We explore the articulation of an internally contested business model through the study of the Product Scope Review (PSR) meeting which took place in October 1957. The article provides evidence of the difficulties surrounding the management of complex high technology industry in a large multi-divisional firm with competing calls on resources, and where a fundamental new technology disrupts established product lines. GE's attempt to manage the M-Form highlights the contradictions between decentralisation and a desire to retain vertical and horizontal economies.

Suggested Citation

  • Roy Edwards & Anthony Gandy, 2014. "Navigating the M-Form: Product Scope Review and the development of the General Electric Computer Department," Business History, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 56(8), pages 1361-1379, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:bushst:v:56:y:2014:i:8:p:1361-1379
    DOI: 10.1080/00076791.2014.898631
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    1. Anthony Gandy, 2013. "The Early Computer Industry," Palgrave Macmillan Books, Palgrave Macmillan, number 978-0-230-38911-3, March.
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