Is it possible for a company to be the lowest cost producer in its industry and simultaneously have an output that is most valued by customers?

INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

Assessment Weight: 50 total marks
Instructions:
• All questions must be answered by using the answer boxes provided in this paper.
• Completed answers must be submitted to Blackboard by the published due date and time.
Submission instructions are at the end of this paper.
Purpose:
This assessment consists of six (6) questions and is designed to assess your level of knowledge of the key topics covered in this unit.
Students who cite relevant peer-reviewed academic articles in the text to support their assertions and list all references appropriately at the end of the report using the ‘Adapted Harvard referencing’ style may receive higher marks than those who do not cite any scholarly literature.
Question 1 (7 marks)
What do you understand by diversification as a growth strategy? Explain the two types of diversification. Illustrate your point with the help of two examples for each type of diversification. Answer this question in 400 words
ANSWER: ** Answer box will enlarge as you type
Question 2 (11 marks)
Ansoff Matrix is one of the key growth strategy models that businesses can use. Explain this model with the help of a diagram. Also, use this model to discuss the strategies for one company in each of two industries below:
– Automotive industry
– Hotel industry
Answer this question in 700 words
ANSWER:
Question 3 (11 marks)
You have studied Porter’s three generic strategies. Explain all three strategies in detail and provide an example of a company for each strategy from the following industries:
– Supermarkets
– Soft Drinks
Answer this question in 700 words
ANSWER:
Question 4 (7 marks)
What is the purpose of learning BCG’s portfolio growth matrix? Explain with the help of a diagram and choose any one Mobile phone/technology company which can use this model for pursuit of their business. (Answer this question in 400 words).
ANSWER:
Question 5 (7 marks)
How can a business-level strategy of (a) low cost and (b) differentiation offer some protection against competitive forces in a company’s industry? (Answer this question in 400 words).
ANSWER:
Question 6 (7 marks)
Is it possible for a company to be the lowest cost producer in its industry and simultaneously have an output that is most valued by customers? Discuss this statement. (Answer this question in 400 words).