Learning Outcomes:

1. Describe the different issues related to environmental scanning, strategy formulation, and strategy implementation in diversified organizations. (CLO2)
2. Explain the contribution of functional, business, and corporate strategies to the competitive advantage of the organization. (CLO3)
3. Distinguish between different types and levels of strategy and strategy implementation. (CLO4)
4. Communicate issues, results, and recommendations coherently, and effectively regarding appropriate strategies for different situations. (CLO6)

1. Case study (1.5 Marks for each question)- Max 700 words  

 Read carefully the case No.26 from your textbook entitled “Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Inc. (2008): Recipe for Success” (Authors:  Annie Phan and Joyce Vincelette) and answer the following questions:

1. Briefly discuss the different functional strategies of the corporation (marketing, operations, distribution, HR, finance, and purchasing).    
2. Describe the competitive position of the company. Briefly explain which type of competitive strategy is used.   
3. What is/are the type(s) of the directional strategy (ies) used by the company? Justify.
4. How is the relationship between the company and its customers? What is the company doing to enhance their satisfaction and sustain the relationship with them? Justify.    

II.     Mini-project (1 mark for each question)- Max 400 words 

From a real national/international market, choose an example of acquisition or merger between companies and answer the following questions:

1. Present your chosen companies and explain the reasons for this acquisition/merger.  
2. What is the method used by the company to manage the culture of
   the acquired/merged company(ies)? Justify.
3. Assess the cultural compatibility of the companies.
4. Is this acquisition/merger successful? Why or why not? Discuss the competitive position of the company (after acquisition/merger).

Answers