Educational publishing embracing tech

: the case of Porto Editora

Abstract

Porto Editora, one of the oldest and largest educational publishers in Portugal, has had a successful 77 year journey in the forefront of innovation with solid returns and a leading position in the market. Yet, in recent times, it has been reluctant about ushering in disruptive change. Digital technologies are readily revolutionizing the world we live in, as well as the way people learn and teach. As education gradually shifts towards digital solutions, large international players such as Pearson Education, McGraw Hill, etc., have adapted their business models to the new rules of the game, capitalizing on one of the biggest technological and pedagogical trends– Artificial Intelligence and Personalization of Education. But Porto Editora has tended to shy away. This case demonstrates the remarkable transformation of a traditional educational publisher into a modern, forward looking enterprise, which gives the company a sustainable source of competitive advantage. It also illustrates the so-called Innovator’s Dilemma depicting key challenges incumbents encounter in bringing about disruptive change.

Date of Award	9 Jul 2021
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Peter V. Rajsingh (Supervisor) & André de Almeida Pinho (Co-Supervisor)