Amazon Fresh & Amazon Go

Before identifying a solution to your problem you must analyze the current strategy of the firm and whether or not this needs to change based on the environmental constraints. In the first module you used the TOWS matrix to identify possible generic strategies as defined by Porter, and Miles and Snow.

Do not confuse an operating strategy with the generic strategy . The operating strategy is often part of your solution for the general problem and is tactical in nature. When assessing the firm's over-arching strategy you want to make sure that your strategy still makes sense based on the environmental analysis.. For example when GE Silicone's patents were running out and foreign competition was increasing, they decided to change the strategy for their core business from a differentiation strategy to a cost-based strategy supported by a CRM strategy. This change in generic strategy changed their business level strategy for their product lines for their core businesses. They only sold products that would contribute to their economies of scale and scope. In addition they looked for increased opportunity investments for emerging businesses but separated these into ventures outside the core business. This change solved their problem of no longer meeting expected returns on their investments and loss of market share.

After you identify the strategy for your organization that is consistent with the mission, vision, and values of the firm You may have several solutions or approaches that are consistent with your strategic direction.

Identify both the generic business level strategy and the corporate strategy that you will recommend in your plan. One type of corporate Strategy relates to the resources of the firm and provides the core competencies. They can be the world market strategy that you will be using for firms competing in multiple countries. Recognize that the corporate strategy like the business level strategy may vary for each SBU for the organization based on market factors.

As part of this discussion on strategy, justify your decision using the information from your environmental scan. Show how it is consistent with the firm's mission, vision and values, in your analysis. Talk about the difference between business level strategy that you have selected and how it is consisted with your corporate strategy.

Please use examples and suggestions from other students' posts to scrutinize your strategy and SBU selection in the peer review process during this discussion.