In this case study assignment, you will be analyzing the Harvard eHarmony case study. The case study pushes us to think about differentiation and positioning in an industry. We use case studies in this course because of the managerial lesson that transcends time rather than "newness".

1. Read the case study twice. Once to get a broad understanding of the issues. The second time for evidence to help understand eHarmony's VRIO and business strategy.

2. Explain in page response to the question in the syllabus,

• How serious is the competitive threat to eHarmony?

Identify eHarmony's business strategy. Describe the scope of competitive and source of competitive advantage. There are four alternatives for eHarmony proposed at the end of the case study; choose one or develop your own, and describe how eHarmony's business strategy will change based on the industry environment and this new strategy.

Purpose: Formative Assessment, Critical Thinking and Analysis

Criteria: This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Application of Generic Business Strategy. Use the Business Strategy to diagnose eHarmony's position at the time of the case study.

Must Include:

1. Addresses the generic business strategy, and change to the strategy.

2. What is the generic business strategy? Name the strategy as well as the source of competitive advantage and scope to competition.

3. Clearly explain the change to the industry environment, and evaluate whether the strategy will change.