Page 57 - The Case Lab Book

f: Questions to be Answered

One of the most difficult questions for management to answer is

‘What business are we in?’

It is likely that when asked this a variety of answers will be given. In order for the
student to effectively answer this question a number of more detailed questions
may have to be asked and answered.

Therefore, in studying the material look for answers to the following.

1. Evolution of the corporate strategy of the organisation.

What is/are:
a) The Mission Statement
b) The aims, goals, objectives,
c) The strategies, and key policies
d) The strategic and Operational health of the company
e) The way the firm has organized to carry out its mission
f) The major managerial and organizational systems e.g. information systems,

communication systems and control systems.

2. Evolution of strategies in particular functions such as:

a. marketing

b. manufacturing

c. finance

d. organisation

e. systems and techniques

Evaluation of the strategic health of the company against its financial health is a
useful area for examination. It will help to focus the information generated above.