Innovation and New Product Development Case Study

Innovation at Pixar: The Key to Sustainable Profitability?

OR

Abstract:
Pixar Animation Studios has produced some of the most successful movies in Hollywood history. A rare combination of high quality computer graphic animation, comedy, strong characterisation, engaging scripts and technical innovation is considered to be the key behind the success of Pixar's movies. Pixar is also known for its talent pool that is considered to be one of the best in the industry. But with its distribution contract with Disney coming to an end along with Pixar's decision to step up production, questions have been raised about its future success.

Pedagogical Objectives:

• To highlight how Pixar was able to attract and nurture a team of highly talented artists and computer experts
• To discuss Pixar’s unique selling proposition
• To discuss possible future courses of action that Pixar can take in the light of its partnership with Disney coming to an end.

Keywords : Pixar Animation Studios; Toy Story; Finding Nemo; The Incredibles; Innovation; Innovation Management Case Study; Steve Jobs; Renderman; Marionette; Ringmaster; Disney-Pixar partnership

Contents:

• Introduction
• Assembling the brainpower behind Pixar
• Pixar's 'Incredible' digital tools
• Will innovation alone drive future success?