External Environment Analysis PDF | Strategic Management Guide

Justyna Wachulka-Chan

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PDF Summary​

Here’s a concise summary of the main points from the document on External Environmental Analysis in Strategic Management:

Purpose of Environmental Analysis

  • Identifies key environmental factors influencing a business.

  • Helps organizations recognize threats, seize opportunities, and understand competition.

  • Assists in identifying stakeholders and their expectations.

Key Analysis Tools

PEST Analysis – Assesses political, economic, social, and technological factors affecting the business environment.

  • Variations include PESTLE and SLEPT analyses.

  • Drawbacks: Limited objectivity and relevance in fast-changing industries.

Porter’s Five Forces Model – Evaluates industry-specific competitive conditions.

  • Includes power of buyers, power of suppliers, threat of new entrants, threat of substitutes, and rivalry among competitors.

  • Drawbacks: Doesn’t account for government influence or business alliances.

Industry Life Cycle Analysis – Helps businesses align strategy to different product life cycle stages (Introduction, Growth, Maturity, Decline).

  • Guides pricing, production, and market strategies at each stage.

Competitor Analysis – Assesses competitive advantage, strategies, and behavior.

  • Helps position an organization effectively relative to rivals.

Global Market Considerations – Evaluates factors influencing expansion into international markets.

  • Benefits: Access to new markets, economies of scale, investment opportunities.

  • Risks: Cultural differences, exchange rate volatility, political stability.

Porter’s Diamond Model – Explains national competitive advantage and industry clustering.

  • Key elements: Factor conditions, demand conditions, competition, and supporting industries.

  • Drawbacks: Based on developed economies, overlooks multinational corporations.

Strategic Insights

  • Regular environmental analysis is essential to staying relevant.

  • Organizations should adapt strategies to external factors.

  • Global expansion requires careful assessment of risks and opportunities.

 

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About the Author

Justyna Wachulka-Chan

Justyna is a seasoned professional with 8 years of dedicated experience in the computer-based accounting and finance certification coaching industry. She is committed to providing students with the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed on their exams.

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