Final answer:
The web-based home-delivery company that had to shut down in 2001 due to inadequate operations management was Webvan. Comparatively, Netflix faced missteps in 2012 by underestimating demand elasticity and competition but managed to adapt and succeed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The initially successful web-based home-delivery company that had to shut down in 2001 due to inadequate management of its operations was Webvan. It was an early online grocery delivery service that expanded rapidly but ultimately failed to manage its logistical challenges and consumer demand forecasting. The lack of proper operations management, including oversight of inventory, delivery schedules, and customer service, led to Webvan's downfall despite the promise of the burgeoning online commerce sector.
In a similar vein, a company like Netflix, which faced challenges amidst growing competition and changing consumer preferences, provides an informative comparison. Unlike Webvan, Netflix survived and thrived due to its ability to adapt. In 2012, Netflix misjudged the elasticity of demand for its services, not fully accounting for competition from alternatives like Vudu, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and Redbox, as well as customers' continued preference for physical DVD disks over streaming video. Despite this, Netflix managed to pivot and correct its course, becoming a dominant player in the streaming industry. This illustrates the critical importance of understanding market dynamics and being agile in business operations, a lesson that holds true for all companies navigating the complex landscape of consumer preferences and competitive pressures.