M20467 Strategic Management Coursework Sample
Coursework Guidance
The coursework will be a 2000 word individual report based on a strategic review of an organization (a list of organizations is provided below). Your individual report company MUST be your own work.
A suggested structure of the report is shown below:
• Table of Contents (not included in word count)
• Executive summary (150 words)
The summary should include firstly, the scope of the report e.g. Netflix in India, then the key issues found and the suggested recommendations
• Strategic review (1850 words)
A strategic analysis of the organization (1233 words)
- External Analysis (using a minimum of 2 strategic models)
- Internal Analysis (using a minimum of 2 strategic models)
- SWOT (Summary 2 x 2 Table)
• Recommendations for future development (617 words)
-TOWS matrix and/or Ansoff matrix to generate strategic options (consider Porters Generic Strategies).
-Review a minimum of 3 options against the criteria of suitability (consider current environment) , feasibility (consider resources) and acceptability (consider stakeholders) to produce prioritised recommendations.
• References (not included in word count)
• Appendices of supporting material (not included in word count)
Coursework general guidance notes:
· You must not do any primary research. All research should be conducted using secondary sources only.
· Diagrams and charts can be in appendices or throughout the body of the report. This is a style issue and is therefore up to you.
· “In text” referencing is part of the word count, but the references list is not.
· Normal rules apply as regards plagiarism. Turnitin will be available for you to check your work.
· A contents page (not included in word count) and page numbers are required.
· An executive summary should summarize the key points & findings in the report. It is not a plan of what you intend to do.
· You are not required to provide critique of tools and models in this report.
· Appendices must not exceed 10 pages. They should support the main body of the report.
· Tables in the body of the report count in the wordcount, but not if in the appendices.
- Recommended Font : Arial 12pt
Solution
Company’s Introduction
Boohoo is a prominent UK-based online fashion retailer that is renowned for its trendy and affordable fashion and clothes for young adults it was established in 2006 and it offers a wide range of fast-fashion apparel along with accessories and beauty products through its e-commerce platform. Boohoo swiftly responds to fashion trends that deliver an accessible style to its global customer base with a focus on digital marketing and a vertically integrated supply chain Boohoo also embraces sustainability initiatives to address industry challenges (Boohooplc, 2023, para.3).
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Figure 1 Company logo
(Source: Boohooplc, 2023)
Strategic Review
External Analysis
PESTLE Analysis
P: Political stability and regulatory environments influence Boohoo's operations such as changes in trade policies and regulations in terms of labor practices or taxation.
E: GDP growth or inflation rates and exchange rates can impact consumer power to purchase and spend on fashion products which will influence Boohoo’s performance.
S: Boohoo must adapt to changes in terms of lifestyles and values, especially among its youthful demographic as social trends and cultural preferences influence consumer behavior and fashion preferences for university assignment help.
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Figure 2 PESTLE Analysis
(Source: Peterdy, 2023)
T: Rapid advancements in technology impact Boohoo's e-commerce platform, strategies of promotion digitally, and supply chain operations like investments in data analytics or artificial intelligence.
L: Compliance with labor laws intellectual property regulations and consumer protection statutes is essential for Boohoo's business operations.
E: The awareness is increased of environmental aspects and regulations in sustainability and carbon emissions impact Boohoo's supply chain and product lifecycle like sustainability in textile waste and water consumption.
Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
Porter's Five Forces analysis inspects the competitive forces that shape the attractiveness and effectiveness of the fashion industry.
Threats of New Entrants - The online fashion retail industry presents a moderate threat of new entrants with a barrier to entry that is relatively low like brand recognition on an e-commerce platform and investment in digital promotion that requires substantial resources.
Bargain Power of Suppliers - The power of bargain possessed by suppliers in Boohoo is relatively high due to its vertically integrated supply chain and extensive network of manufacturing partners (Gratton, 2024, p.2).
Bargain Power of Buyers - The power of bargain in buyers in the online fashion retail industry is significant as consumers have access to a wide range of options like prices, styles, and delivery options easily.
Threats of Substitute - The threat of substitutes for Boohoo's fashion products is moderate to high such as online retailers, brick-and-mortar stores, resale platforms, and rental services.
Competitive Rivalry - The competition in the same industry is intense as Boohoo competes with established players like ASOS, Zara, and H&M.
Internal Analysis
VRIO Framework
Value - Boohoo possesses several valuable resources and capabilities that contribute to its competitive advantage as its strong brand recognition among young fashion-conscious consumers which creates value by effective sales and customer loyalty. Boohoo's vertically integrated supply chain enables efficient production and distribution where the cost will be reduced and timely delivery of products to customers.
Rarity - The resources of Boohoo and capabilities are valuable that might not be rare in the highly competitive fashion retail industry and the brand recognition and digital advertisement expertise are common among online retailers along with the integrated supply chain that may not be unique compared to its competitors. Boohoo's ability to quickly respond to fashion trends and offer a wide range of affordable products distinguishes it from some competitors.
Imitability - Boohoo's resources and capabilities face changeable levels of imitability as competitors can replicate certain aspects of its business model like digital promotional techniques or vertical integration strategies that duplicate Boohoo's brand image and customer base is more challenging. The company's investment in technology and data analytics for trend prediction and personalized promotion presents barriers to imitation and the fast-fashion model itself is imitable, and competitors may replicate similar strategies to capitalize on market trends.
Organization - Boohoo's organizational structure and cultural practices play a crucial role in the management and usage of its resources and capabilities for sustained competitive advantage as the company's agility and innovation are focused on customer-centricity which enables it to adapt quickly to dynamic market conditions and consumer preferences. Boohoo's emphasis on continuous improvement and responsiveness to feedback fosters a dynamic and collaborative work environment which can improve organizational effectiveness and resource utilization.
Value chain analysis
Inbound Logistics - Boohoo's value chain begins with inbound logistics like the procurement of raw materials and finished goods from suppliers and the integrated supply chain allows it to maintain control over production and distribution processes. Boohoo minimizes costs and ensures efficient inventory management with the acceptance of economies of scale and strategic partnerships.
Outbound Logistics - Boohoo's outbound logistics focus on distribution and order fulfillment once products are manufactured and the company operates multiple distribution centers strategically located to facilitate fast and reliable delivery to customers worldwide. Streamlined logistics processes like inventory management and order dispensation systems can ensure timely delivery and customer satisfaction.
Operations - Boohoo's operations involve the transformation of raw materials into finished fashion products that include design, product development, and manufacturing. The agile production processes of Boohoo enable it to quickly respond to fashion trends and consumer demand and create a wide range of fashion and accessories at competitive prices with investments in technology and automation that can enhance operational efficiency and product quality.
Sales and Advertisement - Boohoo's promotional and sales activities are primarily conducted online through its e-commerce platform and digital advertisement channels and the company employs targeted advertisements through social media campaigns and influencer partnerships to engage with its target audience and drive sales. The personalized recommendations and promotions enhance the customer experience and repeat purchases.
Service - Boohoo emphasizes customer service to enhance satisfaction and loyalty through responsive customer support like easy return policies and convenient payment options and Boohoo aims to build long-term relationships with its customers with the offer of a seamless experience from search products to post-purchase support.
Firm Infrastructure - The firm infrastructure of Boohoo includes the overall management and support functions necessary for its operations like corporate governance of finance with human resources and technology infrastructure. Investments in data analytics or supply chain management systems and talent development contribute to organizational efficiency and competitiveness.
SWOT Analysis
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Recommendations for future development
Ansoff matrix for strategic options
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Table 1: Ansoff matrix
Review of the options
Recommendations
1. Investments in Sustainable Practices
Suitability: The consumer awareness and demand increased for sustainable fashion and this option aligns well with current environmental trends Boohoo's adoption of sustainable practices could enhance its brand reputation and attract environmentally conscious consumers.
Feasibility: The implementation of sustainable practices may require significant investments in supply chain rearrangement and implementation of environmentally friendly production processes and Boohoo's financial resources and expertise in supply chain management make this option feasible.
Acceptability: Stakeholders like consumers and investors are likely to view Boohoo's commitment to sustainability positively and there may be resistance from some shareholders due to potential short-term costs and operational changes (Zhan and Santos-Paulino, 2021).
2. Improvement in Customer Experience through Technological Innovation
Suitability: The online experience is crucial for customer retention and attraction which can improve the customer experience through technology that is aligned with Boohoo's focus on its competitive edge in the e-commerce space.
Feasibility: Boohoo has the technical expertise and financial resources to invest in technology and innovation with the implementation of features such as AI-driven personalization and improved website functionality is feasible given the company's digital infrastructure.
Acceptability: The customer experience can be improved by stakeholders like customers who value convenience and efficiency and the employees may require awareness programs to adapt to new technologies.
3. Expansion of the Market Presence into Emergent Economies
Suitability: The expansion into new markets aligns with Boohoo's growth objectives with the high demand for internet penetration and consumer expenses in these economies that provide opportunities to tap into underserved markets and diversify revenue streams.
Feasibility: Boohoo's expertise in e-commerce and digital promotion combined with its financial resources make market expansion feasible with the adaptation to local preferences and regulatory challenges may require strategic partnerships and localized strategies.
Acceptability: Investors may support market expansion initiatives as they represent potential growth opportunities and there may be concerns in terms of market volatility and operational risks.
References
Boohooplc. (2023). Home. [online] Available at: https://www.boohooplc.com/index.htm [Accessed 17 Mar. 2024].
Chatzoglou, P., Chatzoudes, D., Sarigiannidis, L. and Theriou, G., 2018. The role of firm-specific factors in the strategy-performance relationship: Revisiting the resource-based view of the firm and the VRIO framework. Management Research Review, 41(1), pp.46-73. https://doi.org/10.1108/MRR-10-2016-0243
EMBA Pro (2022). Boohoo SWOT Analysis / SWOT Matrix / Weighted SWOT Analysis. embapro.com. Available at: https://embapro.com/frontpage/swotcoanalysis/18324-boohoo (Accessed 17 March 2024).
Gratton, P. (2024). Porter’s Five Forces Explained and How to Use the Model. [online] Available at: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/porter.asp [Accessed 17 Mar. 2024].
Peterdy, K. (2023). PESTEL Analysis. [online] Corporate Finance Institute. Available at: https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/management/pestel-analysis/ [Accessed 17 Mar. 2024].
Shepard, R. (2021). Analysis: Five ways Boohoo is building for the future after supply chain scandal. Retail Week. Available at: https://www.retail-week.com/boohoo-agenda-for-change (Accessed 17 March 2024).
Syuzeva, O. and Zheltenkov, A. (2021) ‘Problems of choosing strategies for diversifying companies,’ In E3S Web of Conferences, 284, pp.1-10. EDP Sciences. https://www.e3s-conferences.org/articles/e3sconf/pdf/2021/60/e3sconf_tpacee2021_07014.pdf
Zhan, J.X. and Santos-Paulino, A.U. (2021) ‘Investing in the Sustainable Development Goals: Mobilization, channeling, and impact,’ Journal of International Business Policy, 4(1), pp.166-183. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/s42214-020-00093-3
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