He who fielded Compaq's 'SWAT team.' (interview with Compaq Computer Corp. CEO Eckhard Pfeiffer) (Sound Bytes, Column) (Interview)

Article Abstract:

Compaq CEO Eckhard Pfeiffer says he was forced to use a 'SWAT team' approach as a means of very quickly devising a less expensive production process for microcomputers after his appointment in 1991. He argues that to have asked the company's existing engineering unit to bring about such a radical reduction in production costs would have taken too long. Pfeiffer entrusted the task to an entirely new group which was charged with establishing a cheaper way to produce microcomputers and was promised the resources to set up a new production process if necessary. Compaq's existing units rapidly accepted the group's recommendations, whose implementation has rejuvenated the whole corporation. Pfeiffer feels that the shock of the dismissal of co-founder Rod Canion was essential to encourage the company's rapid transformation. Lowered costs, he feels, have given the company greater creative freedom in engineering and marketing microcomputers.

Production management, Officials and employees, Microcomputers, CPQ, Chief executive officers, Management Style, Microcomputer, Marketing Strategy, Pfeiffer, Eckhard

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Compaq's completely portable executive

Article Abstract:

As vice president of Compaq's portable software marketing, Lorie Strong directs the development and introductions of Compaq portable computers, including the flagship Deskpro family. Strong says the company is exploring new technologies that it calls 'indispensable information companions' and hopes to introduce by the second half of the 1990s. These potential products will be information appliances for the home, such as beepers that can be implanted on children or a remote control device that can turn on an air conditioner. On Compaq's more immediate plans, a move toward a more standard battery capability is being considered. The company is also looking at wireless communications technology.

Planning, Executive, Strategic Planning, Strong, Lorie

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