Strategy
Short Answer AssignmentAssessment Briefing January 2015
The Short Answer Assignment is 20% of your overall assessment mark. It consists of three parts; one relating to Theme 3 (Corporate Strategy and Decision Making) and two relating to Theme 5 (Strategy Future - Employability, Leadership and Current Trends). Each part is approximately 500 words or equivalent (1500 words in total or equivalent). The reference list is not included in the word count.
You should complete all three parts as a single Word document or PDF and upload it to your Personal Journal on weblearn. Make sure that each question is clearly labelled to avoid confusion. It is advisable to complete each part soon after we cover the relevant material in class so it is still fresh in your mind.
Part 1
1.1 What are the main advantages and disadvantages of organic growth compared with growth through acquisition or alliance? Use academic sources and reference your answer using the Harvard system. (c400-450 words)
1.2 Identify and briefly discuss two well-known companies that have developed through organic growth. (c50-100 words)
Note: session 16 of the module and chapter 10 of the core module textbook will help with this. (see attachment )
Part 2 (c500 words in total)
2.1 Develop a table which summarises the differences and similarities in the type of strategy work typically undertaken by these four groups:
• Senior Executive Teams
• Middle and front line managers
• Strategy specialists e.g. analysts and planners
• Strategy Consultants
2.2 If you wanted to get a strategy job after leaving university, what sort of jobs might you be eligible for immediately and what sort of early career roles or further education might provide a stepping stone to achieve your ambition in the longer term?
Note: session 23 of the module and chapter 15 of the core module text book will help with this.
Part 3
3.1 What is the difference between Strategic Management and Strategic Leadership? Use academic sources and reference your answer using the Harvard system. (c250 words)
3.2 Name two company Chief Executives who you think have demonstrated effective strategic leadership and explain why. (c250 words)
Note: session 26 of the module will help with this (also chapter 16 of Lynch is a good academic source). Lynch R (2010) Strategic Management, 6th Edition, Prentice Hall