Multinational company, Keterola Sdn$.$ Bhd$.,$ which works in the technology industry, was at a crossroads in its strategic planning. When launching a new product line, the executive team had to make a crucial choice. The process of making decisions included striking a delicate balance between long$-$term strategy planning, market studies, and financial concerns.

Historically, Keterola Sdn$.$ Bhd$.$ had concentrated on manufacturing consumer electronics, controlling the market with its cutting$-$edge and inventive offerings. However, the company's strategic orientation had to be re$-$evaluated due to the quick speed at which technology was developing and the shifting preferences of its customers. The leadership team realised that in order to maintain growth and stay competitive, diversification was necessary.

A thorough market analysis that looked at competitive tactics, prevailing trends, and customer wants was the first step in the decision$-$making process. A comprehensive internal assessment of the company's resources, capabilities, and core competencies was also carried out by the management team. Experts from supply chain management, research and development, marketing, and finance made composed the cross$-$functional team.

Following a thorough analysis of the available possibilities, the team recommended creating and introducing a new line of environmentally friendly and sustainable items to meet the growing demand from consumers for eco$-$friendly products. The move was made with the intention of raising the company's profile in terms of corporate social responsibility as well as breaking into a new market.

Making decisions wasn't without its difficulties. There were worries about the market's reaction to eco$-$friendly products, the potential cannibalization of current product lines, and the considerable initial expenditure needed for research and development. The business also had to build strategic alliances and negotiate the intricacies of international supply chains in order to get sustainable supplies.

After weighing the advantages and disadvantages, the executive team made the decision to proceed with creating and introducing the new range of environmentally friendly products. This choice necessitated redistributing resources, working with outside partners, and introducing new products and entering new markets gradually.

The company's eco$-$friendly product range outperformed original sales forecasts and improved its reputation. In addition to creating a new source of income, the calculated move established Keterola Sdn$.$ Bhd$.$ as a pioneer in environmentally friendly technologies.

Question

$1$a$.$ How did the management team balance short$-$term financial considerations with long$-$term strategic goals during the decision$-$making process?

$1$b$.$ What role did cross$-$functional collaboration play in the decision$-$making process, and how did it contribute to the successful implementation of the new product line?

$1$c$.$ How did the company address and overcome the challenges associated with the decision, particularly those related to potential cannibalization of existing product lines and the complex global supply chain?