Market Structure Evolution in the U.S. Automobile Industry (Business/CSS Research Project)
Project Description: This study examines the evolution of market structure in the U.S. automobile industry from 1937 to the present, focusing on the application of diversity and concentration metrics. The automobile industry, characterized by significant consolidation and competitive shifts, presents a unique case for analyzing market dynamics through both established and emerging metrics. The key objectives of this research are to assess the changing concentration of market power, evaluate firm turnover, and identify patterns of industry stability and dynamism. We employ metrics such as the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) and Comprehensive Concentration Index (CCI), alongside a whole host of newer metrics from fields like ecology and genetics. By applying these metrics to study patterns over time, this paper aims to provide a understanding of market concentration, richness, and diversity in the U.S. automobile sector.
Keywords: U.S. automobile industry, market structure, diversity metrics, concentration, VISPUR framework, marketing analytics, ecology, market power, entropy, marketing analytics
Qualifications & Further Information: Dr. Balakrishnan is seeking up to two Computer Science students (or other students with programming knowledge and an interest in business/marketing research) to support a summer research project. This opportunity is unpaid, but students will be sponsored for the $1500 Summer Research Award and will also receive dedicated mentorship, support in exploring graduate study, and future letters of reference. Many of Dr. Balakrishnan’s research mentees have gone on to be accepted into highly competitive business schools and Ph.D. programs. The project described above is just one of several potential projects students may support. Interested applicants are welcome to reach out to Dr. Balakrishnan to learn about other opportunities.
Project Mentor: Dr. Balakrishan (sundar@uw.edu), School of Business
To apply, please email sundar@uw.edu with a brief description of your qualifications and your interest in the project. (You may find this UW Guide to Reaching out to a Mentor helpful.) You can learn more about the Summer Research Award here.
Schools or Related Disciplines:
Business
First Year and Pre-major Program (FYPP)
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)
STEM – Computing and Software Systems (CSS)
Category: Research and Creative Projects
Time: estimated hours per week is 1hr – 20hrs
Best for student levels: High school or any undergraduate students
Credit/Compensation Notes: This is a volunteer or unpaid position. Sometimes awards/stipends are available.