STUDY QUESTIONS

1. What supply chain changes did Microsoft make between the Xbox and the Xbox 360? What was the motivation for these changes?

2. Previous videogame launches had been characterized by initial demand exceeding supply, even though launches had been regional, with many months separating each geographic expansion. What were the benefits and risks of the global launch planned for the Xbox 360?

3. Microsoft planned to use three EMS firms for the Xbox 360, all manufacturing in China. What are the benefits and limitations of this approach? How should Microsoft coordinate the three suppliers?