EduCo

ProHub Comment

This case tests the candidate's ability to structure a diversification strategy, analyze multiple segments using financial metrics, and evaluate acquisition targets through profitability and payback period analysis. The case progresses logically from high-level market assessment to specific segment selection to detailed acquisition evaluation, requiring both quantitative reasoning and strategic judgment.

Estimated Time 15 minutes
Difficulty Medium
Source Columbia
50 / 100

Your client is EduCo, one of the oldest and the largest corporate training and learning service provider in the US. Over the last two years, EduCo has been facing increasing competition from new and upcoming digital learning providers and MOOC start-ups.

The CEO believes that EduCo is operating in a very dynamic industry and needs to diversify and adapt to the changes for continued survival. The CEO has asked your firm to come up with a diversification strategy to ensure the firm maintains its market share in this evolving industry. How would you approach this?

Clarifying Information

  1. Products: Currently provides in-person learning services to working professionals (post K-12) in two areas: 1) software programming and applications 2) soft skills such as communication, teamwork and negotiation
  2. Customers: Pure play B2B firm with presence across the US; US market continues to remain the focus
  3. Changing industry trends: 1) demand for certification in certain niche areas 2) requirement for online and hybrid learning and training formats
  4. What are MOOCs? Massive open online courses