ESPE, the market leader, is a medium-sized German manufacturer of precision dental impression materials competing in a shrinking market. To grow the business, ESPE invests substantial resources in innovative impression materials and associated distribution mechanisms. Squeezed by the shrinking market, the competition is increasingly using the proprietary channels (dispensing mechanisms) and brand equity (trademark) of ESPE to maintain their market share. There is a potential infringement. Explores how ESPE is organized to execute on the options imbedded in its IP rights.

KTM is a successful European off-road motorcycle manufacturer with sales in 72 countries. KTM has been experiencing impressive growth in both its top and bottom lines over the past several years, but it is facing significant growth pressure from its venture capitalist investor. The chief financial officer must determine how the company could achieve its growth objectives. Options include geographic expansion (increase U.S. emphasis or expansion to new European Union countries) or product expansion. Implementation options include a merger, acquisition, or internal growth. Several opportunities for geographic expansion and product diversification exist, and implementation options include make, buy, or ally decisions.

Since 1974, the Multifibre Arrangement (MFA) had been the systematic means for developed countries to restrict textiles and clothing imports from developing countries, which did not conform to the GATT/WTO rules. In 1994, however, the Agreement on Textiles and Clothing was signed, prescribing a 10-year progressive phase-out of the MFA and integration of GATT 1994 rules. By late 2004, the complete phase-out of the MFA on January 1, 2005 had rekindled the debate between protectionists and free-trade advocates. Meanwhile, firms in Hong Kong, one of the world's major textiles and clothing exporting nations, were gearing up for the change.

SW Construction (Holding) Limited is a construction company that develops and manages properties. After a number of successful years in exclusively developing its own properties, the company has suffered a loss in revenue. The executive director is concerned that they have not been able to obtain a government contract. He must determine how the company can win more government contracts by collecting and analysing data from the last 20 auctions.