Strategic Cost Management Harley Davidson

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III. Strategic Cost Management During Harley Davidson’s early years, the reputation of the company was built upon Walter Davidson’s victorious ride on a Harley motorcycle in a 1908 race. This was the first of many races that Harley would go on to win while it transformed itself into the world’s leading producer of motorcycles. Along with its reputation in the racing arena, the company built upon innovations like the V-twin engine, clutch, internal expanding rear brake, and three-speed transmission, all pioneered by Harley Davidson. During the 1920’s, throughout a troubled economy, the company invested in research and development, experimenting with its V-twin design, developing a four-cylinder engine, and improving the reliability of its machines. The quality of the bikes also improved with the addition of the electric starter, balloon tires, front brakes and standardized parts. Due to these innovations, customers chose Harley motorcycles two to one over their main rival, Indian, the only other U.S. motorcycle manufacturer. Along with technical innovations, Harley Davidson chose differentiation as its marketing strategy. In a Differentiated marketing strategy, competitive advantage is achieved through superior products or service. This superiority is based upon factors unrelated to lower costs, such as customer service, product quality, or unique style. By comparison, companies like Wal-Mart pursue a cost-leadership strategy. Along with technological innovations, Harley Davidson focused its efforts on maintaining its exclusive brand image. The company marketed this image just as much as the bikes themselves. “One of the main things that gives us a [competitive advantage] is that we sell more than just motorcycles — we sell a complete experience,” said CEO Jim Ziemer in a note to investors. In order to maintain its brand image, the company has been known to

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