Publications
Publications
- November 2005 (Revised July 2009)
- HBS Case Collection
Trolltech (Norway) - Will Cenapio Steal Christmas?
Abstract
Describes the creation of an open source software venture in Norway, Australia, and the United States that lands a strategic OEM deal with a leading Japanese manufacturer of embedded devices (PDAs in this instance). Details the evolution of the two companies' relationship and the differences in mindset and culture--Norwegian/Japanese as well as small venture/big venture and software company/hardware company. There are also conflicts with a U.S. software venture that is serving as the general contractor for the project. The co-founders must decide how to deal with certain requests by the Japanese partner.
Keywords
Applications and Software; Conflict and Resolution; Strategy; Partners and Partnerships; Open Source Distribution; Information Infrastructure; Entrepreneurship; Cross-Cultural and Cross-Border Issues; Information Technology Industry; Australia; Japan; Norway; United States
Citation
Isenberg, Daniel J. "Trolltech (Norway) - Will Cenapio Steal Christmas?" Harvard Business School Case 806-090, November 2005. (Revised July 2009.)