A four-celled matrix (also called a 2 * 2 matrix) is a popular tool used by corporate executives and consultants for examining different lines of business in an organization. The use of the tool originates from The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) Matrixdeveloped by BCG, USA. The matrix is a renowned corporate portfolio analysis tool (Lowy & Hood, 2004). The two-dimensional nature of the tool can also be used for analysis of management problems and opportunities.

The tool is introduced this week to help you to further think through and detail the meaning and dimensions of a management problem or opportunity and the associated key decisions and their potential outcomes. The tool will help you to define and identify the "what" of the problem or opportunity and advance your work toward an informed course project on decision making.

To prepare for this Discussion, analyze the anticipated impact of a problem or opportunity with respect to one or more of the following areas: Maintaining competitive advantage. & justify how a problem or opportunity triggers key decisions that must be made in organizations by completing the Four Square template.