Based on in-depth study of the electronics giant Philips, "Corporate Strategy, Public Policy and New Technologies" examines the key factors which have determined the success or failure of new technologies and the global competitiveness of firms within a major European consumer industry. Drawing on
the insights gained from intensive empirical research into the company's growth, structure and competitive strategy, the book traces the reciprocal influences of Philips and of European Community policymaking on each other and on the development of the industry since the 1970s. The core of the book
focuses on detailed case studies of three major technological initiatives, and analyses the reasons for their success or failure: the European VCR (Video Cassette Recorder) industry and Philips' VCR 2000 format; Philips and the development of the European HDTV (High Definition Television) system;
and Philips' CD-i (Compact Disc-interactive) project. All three studies raise important issues of competition, collaboration, technology and the role of public policy, with a firm theoretical grounding in the most relevant and up-to-date academic research. In addition to providing an instructive
analysis of the performance of an industry at the levels of the firm, the state and the European Community, the book emphasises that the strategies and policies discussed were adopted largely in response to the global challenge from the USA and, above all, Japan.
The fields of pharmaceutical economics and health economics/policy are reaching a point of convergence. This is due to both the widespread availability of pharmaceutical treatments, accompanied by broader insurance coverage, and the regulation of prescription drugs in both private and government
plans. This book will bridge the gap. We will explore developments in both U.S. and International setting. The system of the U.S. is characterized by a mix of private and government insurance for prescription drugs with the expansion of Medicare Part D. Most other developed countries are
characterized by social insurance with either the government as a single payer such as in Canada or Australia, or a national health service as in many other European countries.