How can value chain analysis help identify a company's strengths and weaknesses?
What will be an ideal response?
A value chain is a linked set of value-creating activities beginning with basic raw materials coming from suppliers, to a series of value-added activities involved in producing and marketing a product or service, and ending with distributors getting the final goods into the hands of the ultimate consumer. Industry value-chain analysis can identify which firms are strongest (and weakest) in each stage of the industry's value chain. Assuming the firm under consideration operates at various stages of the industry value chain, a comparison with other firms at each stage can help identify a firm's strengths and weaknesses. The systematic examination of an individual firm's value activities in corporate value-chain analysis can lead to a better understanding of a corporation's strengths and weaknesses - thus identifying any core or distinctive competencies. According to Porter, "Differences among competitor value chains are a key source of competitive advantage."
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The results of the company survey showed that while the majority of employees were pleased with the advancement opportunities within the organization and the merit system in place, they were dissatisfied with things like pay scale and sharing an office with someone they didn't get along with. These results exemplify which theory of motivation?
a. Hierarchy of Needs Theory b. Two-Factor Theory c. Acquired Needs Theory d. Self-Determination Theory
Which of the following is not a role of the Web from the vantage point of the retailer?
a. to furnish customer service in the form of E-mail and "hot links" b. to replace mail, phone, and fax communications c. to reach geographically dispersed consumers, including foreign consumers d. to provide information to consumers