Synthesize the relationship between the external context of an organization and its internal context and their impact on its strategies.

Module Learning Outcomes
(from module syllabus)

• Synthesise the relationship between the external context of an organisation and its internal context and their impact on its strategies.
• Critically evaluate competitive and development strategies in the context of contemporary strategic management issues.
• Assess the factors that must be considered in strategy implementation.

TASK DESCRIPTION

1. Students are required to explore the strategic management position of their own organisation, or an organisation with which they are familiar, and to conduct and in-depth strategic analysis. The analysis will culminate in appropriate recommendations for a new strategic approach, underpinned by relevant academic literature and theory.

2. At the start of the strategic analysis, you will provide a brief description of the company, its objectives and current approach to reach them and its future goals.

3. In undertaking the strategic analysis, you will begin by identifying the main strategic issues facing your chosen organisation in maintaining its competitive position.

4. You should summarise the key external and internal issues identified in your situational analysis using a SWOT or similar framework.

5. You will then be required to evaluate potential corporate level strategic directions that have been taken by the chosen organisation to date in order to develop and sustain its competitive position. This will give you an opportunity to demonstrate your ability to evaluate the strategic options you have identified in relation to the development of global competitive positioning as well as offering an understanding of the requirements of building competitive capabilities for leveraging across global markets.

6. Frameworks and models of strategic management should be considered when considering specific strategies for developing and sustaining a global competitive strategy.

7. Following on from the analysis you will then be expected to fully discuss the implications of the options taken for strategic management decision-making. In so doing you will demonstrate an appreciation of the wider implications for strategic management decisions and the incorporation of a new strategy on certain areas within the organisation.

Finally, you will be expected to provide appropriate recommendations largely based on your findings.