| A case study of the memory preservation industry explored why and how (a) preserving memories through photographic imagery may remain a popular consumer pastime, (b) consumer behavior may change technologies used to preserve memories, and (c) the nature of industry competition may change. Primary research dissected the industry into PACE: Professional, Amateur, Contextual, and Extemporaneous forms of memory preservation, and interweaved elite interview findings that were analyzed using pattern-matching. Findings demonstrated that humanity is “wired” for memory preservation. A framework discussed how technology affects how memories are captured, created, and controlled and its effects on convenience, connectivity, choice, communities, and copyrights. Patterns emerged that explain why this industry is personally rewarding for employees and how increasing consumer education and involvement sustains it. The product and service requirements that consumers demand are driving technological innovation, and this technological shift is changing the competitive structure of the industry through pervasive and invasive forms of memory capture. Virtual and physical memory lifespan management surfaced as a prominent competitive migration for firms in the memory preservation industry. Patterns were revealed that offer strategic direction for any firm addressing technology transition, technology lifecycle, human capital, or organizational change challenges. Specific business strategies emerged that can help firms in any industry experiencing profound technological or social change, including competitive envisioning, paradoxical product innovation, creative process modeling, and value ropes. |
