Business Schools’ Competitive Insights: The Case of Barcelona’s Higher Education Landscape

Abstract

This study examines the application of Porter’s Five Forces to business schools in Barcelona, aiming to provide a comprehensive view of their competitive landscape. It explores how competition, entry barriers, and the bargaining power of suppliers and customers influence strategic decisions. The analysis delves into specific factors such as the threat of new entrants and the availability of substitute educational offerings, which further complicate the competitive environment. The results highlight intense competition among schools vying for talented students and faculty by international institutions attracted to Barcelona’s strategic location and quality of life. To remain competitive, business schools must offer high-quality programs and robust support services, with key success factors, including educational quality, human resources, innovation, and differentiation in a dynamic market. Additionally, collaboration with industry partners and the incorporation of advanced digital tools are becoming increasingly important for maintaining relevance. The evolving business environment emphasizes the need for ongoing improvement and innovation to meet market demands. This study identifies the challenges faced by Barcelona’s business schools and emphasizes the importance of strategic adaptability and initiative-taking management in addressing these issues. Moreover, the study proposes strategies to strengthen the business schools’ competitive positioning and to ensure long-term success, highlighting the role of strategic leadership in navigating the complexities of the higher education sector.