A strategic and financial analysis of the DRAM industry

Abstract

The manufacturing and development of Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) is a large global industry that involves various advanced technologies and significant capital expenditures. The industry has seen tremendous developments over the past few decades allowing for rapidly improving product performance. The progression of the industry has also been a fantastic model for demonstrating the basic laws of economics, including the economies of scale and consolidation in high fixed-cost businesses. The first part of this thesis provides a general overview of the DRAM industry, including a brief history of the product and an overview of the essential technologies and its manufacturing process. In addition, the key business drivers of the industry are discussed and important lessons from two pivotal stages in the industry, the rise of Japanese manufacturers and the ascension of Korean producers, are presented. The second part of this thesis provides a case study on one major industry participant - Elpida Memory Inc. A company overview is first given, and then recommendations regarding the Company's future strategy and direction are presented.