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Very interesting article! As a current MBA student, this was extremely relevant and a perspective that isn’t discussed frequently. HBS finds itself in an interesting tension, with the US growing increasingly isolationist but global companies are gaining more relevance and importance. As HBS considers how to expand it’s efforts overseas, it seems a critical player to get involved is Career & Personal Development (CPD). A big driver in the jobs MBA’s apply for is the funnel of jobs presented on campus and through the CPD website. I wonder if the percentage of job postings has reflected the macro shift or if HBS has made efforts to counteract these trends through CPD outreach.

Great article! I really enjoyed reading about the application of blockchain beyond cryptocurrency and fintech. In evaluating the use of blockchain in Walmart’s supply chain beyond pilot studies, I worry about the implementation. Not only will Walmart need to ensure it’s suppliers have the IT infrastructure to support a blockchain solution, I wonder if Walmart has the ability to tap into the talent required to implement the project. “Hot” areas in tech, such as AI and blockchain, are facing massive talent shortages. In evaluating the opportunity at Walmart versus traditional tech players, it seems unlikely that Walmart will be able to attract the talent necessary to execute, monitor and maintain such a system. With the help of IBM and Tsinghua University, it may be feasible in the short term. But as a long term strategic move, it seems like Walmart will need to have internal capabilities sooner, rather than later.

In reading this post, two questions came to mind: (1) Current efforts seem focused on the short term – has management created a long-term plan? and (2) What other factors has Inditex considered beyond eco-stores and logistics?

When I consider the fashion industry and sustainability, the wastewater from textiles and dye comes to mind. I wonder if Inditex has considered or addressed these issues as part of their ongoing efforts? In considering the role of climate change, what responsibility does Inditex have in going beyond regulatory requirements and producing clothing sustainably?

Great article! News media publishers have arguably been one of the most impacted players in the recent trend of digitization. It is clear that the NYT has recognized the severity of this issue, as demonstrated by their investment in a ‘digital innovation’ task force. As I analyze my own consumption of media, I wonder if the NYT has considered embracing user generated content. New platforms such a Medium have enable ‘everyone’ to become a content creator and engage with the ideas of others. As an existing news media site, what role could the NYT have in creating a NYT facilitated user forum? NYT may have a unique advantage over new entrants that don’t have the reach or brand recognition. The NYT will need to continue to redefine its business model and push the boundary of traditional media to stay relevant into today’s age of digitization.

Upon reading this article, what stood out was the infrastructure investments the Navy was proactively making to combat climate change. As a civilian, I did not realize branches of the military were taking proactive measures to respond and adapt to rising pressures from climate change. However, the question that remained for me is whether or not the organization, the Navy, has the ability to change its structure to embed this into their culture. The Navy’s goal is to provide combat power at short notice. What role / person within the organization is responsible and held accountable for mitigating against climate change? It seems that despite the good intentions of these efforts, in a dire situation, climate change might be overlooked. How does the Navy ensure that sustainability issues are acknowledged as critical to the mission, and not just a “nice to have”?

The escalating tensions between the US and Russia creates uncertainty in the approach and strategic direction of ULA. An interesting development that adds an additional layer of complexity is the recent indecision of the EU government on guaranteeing ArianeGroup at least five government satellites [1]. This could present an opportunity for ULA to challenge SpaceX through their partnership with Blue Origin, or at least consider European opportunities outside of Russia. This recent development makes me wonder whether the EU is moving in the direction of isolationism, or considering exploring international options for rockets?

[1] “EU Governments’ Indecision on SpaceX Challenge Seen as Threat to Ariane System’s Survival.” Space Intel Report, http://www.spaceintelreport.com/eu-governments-indecision-spacex-challenge-seen-threat-ariane-systems-survival/, accessed November 2017.