Case Name :      Daktronics (F): Weathering the Recession Positioned for a Bright Future

Authors :           Marilyn L Taylor, Theresa T Coates, Charles C Connely

Source :             North American Case Research Association (NACRA)

Case ID :            NA0242

Discipline :        Strategy

Case Length :    32 pages

Solution sample availability : YES

Plagiarism : NO (100% Original work)

The Daktronics (“Dak”) case draws attention to what a company can do in the midst of recessionary forces when sales have declined significantly and the company’s leadership position may be headed for additional erosion. The case is as of FYE 2010 (May) and examines this B2B firm which is the leading score board design and manufacturing firm. Dak has significant opportunity in various countries abroad, but when and where the company should undertake additional strategic action is not clear. The company’s executive team and board confront increasing competition and press pressure. Should the firm wait out the recession or undertake a bold strategic move? Founded in South Dakota by two South Dakota State University engineering professors. Dak produces videographic displays plus related products and services that lead in the sports arena market installations and have applications across a variety of institutional and commercial markets. Among the commercial markets that offer opportunities are digital business advertising venues. To date, the firm has pursued a conservative, but path-breaking technology leadership position in its market. Dak is a B2B case that provides examples of applications which will be of interest to and useful with both graduate and undergraduate level students.