Applying Information Technologies in Innovative Ways: A Case Study of the Pharmaceutical Distribution Sector

Abstract

The main purpose of this case study is to explain the process of discovering and application of new information technology (IT)-based opportunities developed by a Spanish enterprise whose activity is pharmaceutical distribution. It is a mature firm, which during the course of the last few years has been able to adopt information technologies in innovative ways thanks to the intrapreneurial spirit of its managers. In the analysis of this case study, after presenting the theoretical base, we describe the history of the organization, its main characteristics, and its type of business. Next, we explain the technological utilization of the company and its managerial implications, paying special attention to its most innovative projects. We conclude with the description of the main challenges and problems associated with the achievement of the technological goals adopted by the organization.