Robert L. Johnson has done what many thought could not be done: he founded a company that leveraged managerial talent, mostly African Americans, and has become one of the leading media companies in the world. This case allows many points of doctrine from several functional point of view. Students can learn about the decisions necessary to run the company and can compare the launch of the Black Entertainment Television (BET) for companies in other industries and markets. The case provides an opportunity to explore strategic advantages BET brand to different groups of consumers, and to assess the growth and viability of each group and product category. After BET, students can learn about the benefits and obligations of different legal structures and problems of entering the public market. Financial and strategic decisions, particularly relating to the allocation of shares to the public and the market valuation of the company at various stages, can enrich the students' understanding of the entrance and exit to the capital markets. Multimedia version (UVA-S-0108M), with interactive videos and extensive time for the students and teachers to use, affordable, which makes the case alive. This case is one of two Darden case studies on BET. Leadership and organizational behavior paper case (UVA-OB-0814) and its video additions focus explicitly on complex human resources issues BET. The use of research in both cases the same day allows integrated education. Education information is available only to registered faculty. "Hide
by Gregory B Fairchild Source: Darden School of Business 13 pages. Publication Date: January 7, 2004. Prod. #: UV6352-PDF-ENG