Develop a value chain analysis for Barnes and Noble. Develop one that fits what Barnes and Noble does. Then do an internal value chain analysis by providing an assessment based on that analysis of the strengths and weaknesses. This assessment should be based upon metrics as best as you can identify them. In other words for each function in the value chain, how would one measure the effectiveness of that function? For example for HR one metric used to evaluate how strong or weak your HR is might be the turnover rate. Benchmark against a competitor for each function...only when you compare metrics to other companies can you really determine whether that particular function is a strength or a weakness. You might consider building a table like the following.

Metric Competitor or Industry Strength or Weakness?

Primary

Inbound Logistics

Operations

Outbound Logistics

Marketing/Sales

Customer Service

Support

General/Admin

Procurement

Technology

HR