The operating model of Caterpillar Inc. predominantly aligns with the coordination. Here is an analysis of how Caterpillar’s operational framework aligns with the four categories, considering its extensive international presence and wide range of products.
1. Diversification: Although Caterpillar operates in multiple industries and offers a range of products such as construction equipment, mining machinery, engines, and turbines, its operations are not solely characterized by diversification. Rather, there exists a certain level of coordination and integration among its diverse offerings,
indicating that its operating model goes beyond mere diversification.
2. Coordination: This represents the fundamental operational framework employed by the Caterpillar Inc. The corporation effectively manages its worldwide operations, supply chains, and product development endeavors to attain synergies and cost advantages. Simultaneously, it grants a certain degree of independence to its
business units, enabling them to cater to local market demands and comply with regulatory obligations.
3. Replication: Although Caterpillar Inc. does implement standardized processes and products in various aspects such as quality control and safety standards, its business model does not completely align with a replication approach. This is primarily
because Caterpillar Inc.’s products frequently necessitate customization to cater to the unique requirements of diverse industries and regions.
4. Unification: Unification encompasses the consolidation and amalgamation of
operations within a unified and cohesive framework. Although Caterpillar Inc. does possess centralized functions such as research and development and strategy
planning, it also operates with a certain level of decentralization to cater to varied markets and business units.
To summarize, Caterpillar Inc.’s operational framework can be described as Coordination, as it effectively utilizes centralized coordination to capitalize on synergies, while also allowing for a certain degree of autonomy and adaption to local market conditions.
Core Diagram
Key Customers Component
Government and Defense
Agriculture
Construction Industry
Mining and Quarrying
Transportation
Forestry
Core Diagram - (Components and elements)
Core Business Processes Component
Product development and innovation
Customer Support and service
Supply Change Management
Sales and Marketing
Financial services and Leasing
Manufacturing and Production
Technologies Component
Internet of Things (IoT)
Automation and Robotics
Simulation and Modelling
Hybrid - Electric and Hydrogen powered Technologies
Shared Data Driving Core Processes Component
Customer contact information
Company information
Account information
Purchase History
Geo graphic data
Feedback and Surveys