Apply the VRIO framework in the following settings. Will the actions described be a source of competitive disadvantage, parity, temporary advantage, or sustained competitive advantage? Explain your answers.

(a) The Japanese automaker Suzuki announces a recall of a 100,000 vehicles in India, where its subsidiary enjoys leading market share.

(b) SAP, the enterprise resource planning software giant, announces the acquisition of Fieldglass, the leading technology provider for procuring and managing temporary workforces for clients.

(c) US Bancorp, one of the top five banks in the US, with over 3000 branches, announced the acquisition of local rival BankEast, which has 10 branches.

(d) Caterpillar, construction equipment manufacturer, patents a new muffler for its machines’

exhaust systems.

(e) GlaxoSmithKline, the pharmaceutical company, patents a new, potentially“

blockbuster” drug for Alzheimer’s disease.

(f) Computer maker Lenovo plans to sponsor a Formula 1 car racing team.
(g) Mobil announces a 5 cent drop in petrol prices across its network of petrol stations in New Zealand.
(h) Accenture deploys a new skills inventory and training system that seeks to develop and deploy consulting resources to relevant client projects.
(i) Deloitte announces a new incentive plan that allows not only partners but also all consultants to share in the profits of the firm.
(j) Red Bull, the energy drink company, launches a new, larger size packaging for its original product.