$1.$ Evaluating Operations Strategy Decisions: Evaluate New Balance $($NB$)$s current operations strategy. What are the key decisions implicit in this strategy? In particular, consider the following sub$-$questions to direct your thinking; answer ANY FOUR sub$-$questions: $($i$)$ What is NB$$s competitive position in the Athletic Footwear industry $$ i$.$e$.,$ how does it differ from its key competitors? $($ii$)$ How has NB$$s operations strategy $($longer$-$term decisions providing competitive advantage$)$ supported its competitive objectives? $($iii$)$ If NB is so concerned with the quality of its manufacturing $$ and it owned US factories $$ why did it not own factories in Asia as well? $($iv$)$ Based on the importance of sales agents in NB$$s strategy, what is your assessment of the company$$s decision to differ from industry practice by maintaining an independent sales force? $($v$)$ If teams are so critical at NB$,$ why are workers not compensated on team performance?