The Qualcomm Equation

This book reveals crucial but little-known information on the history of cellular and wireless technology -- some of which dates to World War II -- and shows how the company grabbed the wave just as it began to rise.

It is not an exaggeration to say that Qualcomm, through a combination of technological superiority, cunning business acumen, and sheer tenacity, has become the undisputed standard by which telecom companies now measure themselves. In short order, they have also become a model of substantial and sustained growth that businesses in all industries should emulate. Qualcomm’s rise mirrors that of the cell phone itself. Both are ubiquitous, both continue to evolve rapidly, and both turned the status quo on its head. How did they do it?

The Qualcomm Equation details how the fledgling company, while their rivals simply duked it out for more customers, made a killing not only by offering great service, but also by leasing their superior standard technology to other telecom companies. While Qualcomm grew its own customer base, they had also found a way to make more money the bigger their competitors got. How can you apply the Qualcomm model in your industry, and in your company?

Following Qualcomm’s example, your company can:

• attract investors by presenting even complex products and technologies in customer- and market-focused language 
• prove that its product is essential not only to customers but also to competitors -- so that they come to depend on you rather than trying to defeat you 
• make its product and its operations compatible with those competitors, turning rivalries into profitable strategic alliances 
• learn from setbacks, and leverage the knowledge and strengths of your partners to overcome obstacles 

In the last decade, Qualcomm has come to define dominance not only in the telecommunications industry, but throughout the global business landscape. The Qualcomm Equation presents their story, and the keys to their unparalleled success.