Research and select a sample strategic plan in an industry with which you are familiar or interested. Be sure it includes the various components of a typical strategic plan. Reference Figure 1.1 Identifying a Companys StrategyWhat to Look For in Ch. 1 of your text.

Identify in 350 to 525 words what the plan does well, in addition to areas for improvement.

Discuss whether the plan:

• Clearly states where the organization is going and how it will get there
• Evaluates the organizations external and internal environments
• Includes a people plan and addresses achievement of a diverse workforce
• Includes corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability

Actions to strengthen the firm's bargaining position with suppliers, distributors, and others Actions to gain market share via more performance features, better design, quality or customer service, wider product selection, or other such actions Actions to gain increased market share or profitability via lower costs Actions to upgrade, build, or acquire competitively important resources and capabilities Actions to enter new product or geographic markets or to exit existing ones THE PATTERN OF ACTIONS THAT DEFINE A COMPANY'S STRATEGY Actions and approaches used in managing R&D, production, sales and marketing, finance, and other key activities Actions to capture emerging market opportunities and defend against external threats to the company's business prospects Actions to strengthen competitiveness via strategic alliances, and collaborative partnerships, mergers, or acquisitions Actions to strengthen corporate culture, motivate employees, and create a productive working environment Actions to strengthen market standing and reputation through corporate responsibility and environmental sustainability programs