1. Describe two ways in which Pfizer has gained access to innovative drugs and other medical technologies. What challenges do you suppose the firm has faced in pursuing each of these strategies?

2. Pfizer has twice attempted to merge with another pharmaceutical company, and both times the mergers have failed. Why is Pfizer so eager to merge? Why did these attempts fail? What segments of the external environment have influence this situation?

3. When Ian Read became the CEO in 2010, he restructured Pfizer into two segments: Established Products and Innovative Products. What type of structure is the firm now using? How will this move benefit the firms?

4. Briefly summarize the bios of CEO Ian Read and other members of the top management team. How would you describe this team? What type of managerial labor market has Pfizer used to assemble its team?

5. Pfizer and other big pharma companies have been harshly criticized for charging "exorbitant" prices for some of their drugs, but Pfizer says its prices are justified. Debate the issue, examining both viewpoints. Is this a smart pricing strategy or not?