Why did Sony feel the need to internationalize its R&D activities in the late 1980s and early 1990s? Case 6.2 Sony: Managing the international R&D network Sony Corporation (Sony), the Japan-based consumer electronics and entertainment group, has become synonymous with breakthrough technology products, including the Walkman, Trinitron TV, Compact Disc Player and PlayStation video consoles. Over the course of more than half a century, Sony has developed into a world-class brand representing high quality and advanced technology in consumer electronics. However, during the past ten years, and with the exception of the PlayStation (PS2 and PS3) consoles, Sony has been more of a laggard in consumer electronics innovation, for example in the fields of LCD technology and MP3 players. It has not been able to keep up in the marketplace with Sharp in LCD technology, or with Apple in MP3 players, or with Nokia in mobile phones, though it has remained successful in areas such as digital cameras and gaming consoles.28 Why was Sony unable to keep pace with changes in the consumer electronics industry? How does Sony manage its research and development