Final answer:
Changes in laptop computer design with built-in wireless technology impact operations management by potentially creating more competitive markets with many small firms or fostering 'winner-take-all' scenarios, enhancing global operational management, and promoting environmentally sustainable practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question addresses the impacts of changes in laptop computer design that include built-in wireless technology on operations management (OM) strategy. This technological shift has a multitude of impacts, particularly shaped by the advent of Information and Communications Technology (ICT). Firstly, ICT enables small firms to expand their reach well beyond local markets, allowing them to find customers across the nation and internationally, indicating a move towards a market with a higher number of small competitors. Nevertheless, there's a flip side where ICT may foster a 'winner-takes-all' market scenario, where dominant companies, such as Microsoft or Amazon, overshadow smaller firms.
Furthermore, these technological improvements facilitate the management of multiple operations globally, potentially encouraging the growth of larger firms. Environmental impacts are also significant, with ICT shifting industries towards digital services and solutions that are more sustainable and environmentally friendly compared to traditional practices. For example, online shopping enhances efficiency by centralizing deliveries, which can be more environmentally beneficial than individual shopping trips. Choosing or partnering with companies that prioritize their environmental impact, such as using renewable energy sources or electric delivery vehicles, can amplify these benefits.
In sum, the integration of wireless technology in laptops could lead to potentially more competitive markets, operational efficiencies, and sustainable practices, while simultaneously raising concerns over market dominance by a few large firms