Running head: APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Apple Values and Strategy Paper Patty Ahmedou Balla STR/581 Frank C. Bearden July 24, 2017 1 APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 2 Apple Inc. Strategic Management Process Introduction The strategic management process is a method of management that incorporates a philosophical approach to operating and managing an enterprise. The approach incorporates the values espoused by a business in the management of all the resources at its disposal and in the formulation of the strategies that are meant to steer the company. It involves the incorporation of the values and aspirations held by the company in making ultimate business decisions that affect the company. This paper will focus on the Apple Inc. as a case study for the interrogation of the phenomenon; the strategic management process. Apple is a leading electronics company that specializes in the production of high-end electronic devices and their respective software. This paper will analyze the various decisions that have been made by the company in consonance with their vision and mission statements to propel it to the heights it has attained. The process alluded to above is a four-stage sequence, informed by a series of components that need to be appreciated to achieve the desired consequence of the process. The steps include the analysis stage, the strategy formulation stage, the strategy development and implementation stage and finally the evaluation stage (Chaneta, 2011). The same is individually analyzed herein below in detail to elucidate their importance in the whole process. APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 3 Components of the Process and How They Synchronize for Effectiveness Situational Analysis This step involves an evaluation of the structures within and outside the company to ascertain the position of the company. An internal examination focuses on the structures and interactions within the organization, spanning from the relations within the management to the relationships between the employees and the management. This analysis further extends to an examination of the external situation of the company. For instance, the interaction between the company and the suppliers, creditors, and debtors form a vital part of this interrogation (Barney, 2014). The aspect of the competition is also a factor that is looked into when analyzing the company's economic position in the industry, alongside the statutory frameworks that are relevant to the enterprise. Formulation of Strategy This facet deals with the design and development of the strategies to be adopted and applied by the company. The phase boils down to three components, namely operational, competitive and corporate strategy. Operational strategies focus on the internal elements of the business, being the financial, human resource, marketing and production facets of management. They deal with the daily operations of the company that culminates into production and ultimate sales. Competitive strategies speak to the competition dynamics of the market. The most important step in this phase is the knowledge of the industry competition so that the strategy devised is competent enough to overcome the competition. Finally, there is the aspect of APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 4 corporate strategy. This approach focuses on the structure and forms the business takes in conducting its operations. The business vehicle defines the direction required of the enterprise and informs on the expansion strategies that the company finally adopts. Development and Implementation Once the considerations above have been dispensed with, the company then puts into place a strategy depending on the need. The development of the plan involves massive consultations among stakeholders, considering the underlying business situation. The policy thereby outlines a path the company wishes to take to achieve its strategic goals. The same is then implemented according to plan. At implementation, the components considered are the steps, methods and the procedural framework put in place to execute the said strategy. The issue of infrastructure is addressed at this point as the strategy is implemented. This is the stage that determines the order of priority of implementation according to urgency, need and the level of importance. Strategy Evaluation This is the final phase of the strategic management process. An appraisal is conducted of the procedures put in place to interrogate the results they yielded. A positive response attracts retention of the strategy with the allowance of improvement. A negative response may draw some correction if it is not fatal, or a complete overhaul of the policy. Mission Statement, Vision Statement, and People Strategy The mission and vision statements of a company are a vital component of the overall strategy a company seeks to adopt (Wheelen & Hunger, 2017). They point to a specific APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 5 destination that the company is headed and provide the bearing for the same. For Apple, the founders came up with very elaborate statements. For instance, the vision statement of the company enumerates the emphasis the company lays on innovation, and the same may be seen in their daily operation as the company does not compromise on product research and creativity. The statement also cites simplicity, which report informs the structural design and application design of Apple products. The simplicity in use of their applications is informed by the stipulates of the statement (Hill et al, 2014). Further, the statement pinpoints the target market, such that the product designers are aware of whom they are creating products for. The mission statement, on the other hand, is a declaration of their market leadership and dominance, citing the space occupied by the company as a leading industry player, and the decisive position it holds in controlling the direction of the industry. Ethics and Social Responsibility The company also seeks to distance itself from the notion that they are too profit oriented to care about the well-being of their surroundings. The company has therefore initiated the Apple corporate social responsibility programs that endear them to the local communities and focuses on the welfare of their employees. The company engages in a lot of volunteer initiatives to educate communities in the locality, as well as programs that encourage environmental conservation. They have a reduction of waste policy and minimize the use of water. The company adheres to the Supplier Code of conduct that dictates the labor rights of employees (Heracleous, 2013). Deemed as the sternest code, the company seeks to operate by the provisions therein. Further, employee health is a priority for the company and as such cases APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 6 of casualties are significantly reduced. In recruitment, the firm takes into consideration gender balancing and incorporates the affirmative action of considering minority groups. Conclusion The bottom-line is that the decisions of the company must reflect the strategy it seeks to adopt and must use the latter as a pointer towards the achievement of its ultimate goals. From the mission and vision statements to corporate responsibility, Apple is using all in its wake to achieve the goals it has set. The former is just yardstick to the accomplishment of the latter. APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 7 References Barney, J. B. (2014). Gaining and sustaining competitive advantage. Pearson Higher Ed. Chaneta, I. (2011). Strategic management process. Heracleous, L. (2013). Quantum strategy at Apple Inc. Organizational Dynamics, 42(2), 92-99. Integrated approach. Cengage Learning. Hill, C. W., Jones, G. R., & Schilling, M. A. (2014). Strategic management: theory: an integrated approach. Cengage Learning. Wheelen, T. L., & Hunger, J. D. (2017). Strategic management and business policy. Pearson. Running head: APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Apple Values and Strategy Paper Patty Ahmedou Balla STR/581 Frank C. Bearden July 24, 2017 1 APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 2 Apple Inc. Strategic Management Process Introduction The strategic management process is a method of management that incorporates a philosophical approach to operating and managing an enterprise. The approach incorporates the values espoused by a business in the management of all the resources at its disposal and in the formulation of the strategies that are meant to steer the company. It involves the incorporation of the values and aspirations held by the company in making ultimate business decisions that affect the company. This paper will focus on the Apple Inc. as a case study for the interrogation of the phenomenon; the strategic management process. Apple is a leading electronics company that specializes in the production of high-end electronic devices and their respective software. This paper will analyze the various decisions that have been made by the company in consonance with their vision and mission statements to propel it to the heights it has attained. The process alluded to above is a four-stage sequence, informed by a series of components that need to be appreciated to achieve the desired consequence of the process. The steps include the analysis stage, the strategy formulation stage, the strategy development and implementation stage and finally the evaluation stage (Chaneta, 2011). The same is individually analyzed herein below in detail to elucidate their importance in the whole process. APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 3 Components of the Process and How They Synchronize for Effectiveness Situational Analysis This step involves an evaluation of the structures within and outside the company to ascertain the position of the company. An internal examination focuses on the structures and interactions within the organization, spanning from the relations within the management to the relationships between the employees and the management. This analysis further extends to an examination of the external situation of the company. For instance, the interaction between the company and the suppliers, creditors, and debtors form a vital part of this interrogation (Barney, 2014). The aspect of the competition is also a factor that is looked into when analyzing the company's economic position in the industry, alongside the statutory frameworks that are relevant to the enterprise. Formulation of Strategy This facet deals with the design and development of the strategies to be adopted and applied by the company. The phase boils down to three components, namely operational, competitive and corporate strategy. Operational strategies focus on the internal elements of the business, being the financial, human resource, marketing and production facets of management. They deal with the daily operations of the company that culminates into production and ultimate sales. Competitive strategies speak to the competition dynamics of the market. The most important step in this phase is the knowledge of the industry competition so that the strategy devised is competent enough to overcome the competition. Finally, there is the aspect of APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 4 corporate strategy. This approach focuses on the structure and forms the business takes in conducting its operations. The business vehicle defines the direction required of the enterprise and informs on the expansion strategies that the company finally adopts. Development and Implementation Once the considerations above have been dispensed with, the company then puts into place a strategy depending on the need. The development of the plan involves massive consultations among stakeholders, considering the underlying business situation. The policy thereby outlines a path the company wishes to take to achieve its strategic goals. The same is then implemented according to plan. At implementation, the components considered are the steps, methods and the procedural framework put in place to execute the said strategy. The issue of infrastructure is addressed at this point as the strategy is implemented. This is the stage that determines the order of priority of implementation according to urgency, need and the level of importance. Strategy Evaluation This is the final phase of the strategic management process. An appraisal is conducted of the procedures put in place to interrogate the results they yielded. A positive response attracts retention of the strategy with the allowance of improvement. A negative response may draw some correction if it is not fatal, or a complete overhaul of the policy. Mission Statement, Vision Statement, and People Strategy The mission and vision statements of a company are a vital component of the overall strategy a company seeks to adopt (Wheelen & Hunger, 2017). They point to a specific APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 5 destination that the company is headed and provide the bearing for the same. For Apple, the founders came up with very elaborate statements. For instance, the vision statement of the company enumerates the emphasis the company lays on innovation, and the same may be seen in their daily operation as the company does not compromise on product research and creativity. The statement also cites simplicity, which report informs the structural design and application design of Apple products. The simplicity in use of their applications is informed by the stipulates of the statement (Hill et al, 2014). Further, the statement pinpoints the target market, such that the product designers are aware of whom they are creating products for. The mission statement, on the other hand, is a declaration of their market leadership and dominance, citing the space occupied by the company as a leading industry player, and the decisive position it holds in controlling the direction of the industry. Ethics and Social Responsibility The company also seeks to distance itself from the notion that they are too profit oriented to care about the well-being of their surroundings. The company has therefore initiated the Apple corporate social responsibility programs that endear them to the local communities and focuses on the welfare of their employees. The company engages in a lot of volunteer initiatives to educate communities in the locality, as well as programs that encourage environmental conservation. They have a reduction of waste policy and minimize the use of water. The company adheres to the Supplier Code of conduct that dictates the labor rights of employees (Heracleous, 2013). Deemed as the sternest code, the company seeks to operate by the provisions therein. Further, employee health is a priority for the company and as such cases APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 6 of casualties are significantly reduced. In recruitment, the firm takes into consideration gender balancing and incorporates the affirmative action of considering minority groups. Conclusion The bottom-line is that the decisions of the company must reflect the strategy it seeks to adopt and must use the latter as a pointer towards the achievement of its ultimate goals. From the mission and vision statements to corporate responsibility, Apple is using all in its wake to achieve the goals it has set. The former is just yardstick to the accomplishment of the latter. APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 7 References Barney, J. B. (2014). Gaining and sustaining competitive advantage. Pearson Higher Ed. Chaneta, I. (2011). Strategic management process. Heracleous, L. (2013). Quantum strategy at Apple Inc. Organizational Dynamics, 42(2), 92-99. Integrated approach. Cengage Learning. Hill, C. W., Jones, G. R., & Schilling, M. A. (2014). Strategic management: theory: an integrated approach. Cengage Learning. Wheelen, T. L., & Hunger, J. D. (2017). Strategic management and business policy. Pearson. Running head: APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Apple Values and Strategy Paper Patty Ahmedou Balla STR/581 Frank C. Bearden July 24, 2017 1 APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 2 Apple Inc. Strategic Management Process Introduction The strategic management process is a method of management that incorporates a philosophical approach to operating and managing an enterprise. The approach incorporates the values espoused by a business in the management of all the resources at its disposal and in the formulation of the strategies that are meant to steer the company. It involves the incorporation of the values and aspirations held by the company in making ultimate business decisions that affect the company. This paper will focus on the Apple Inc. as a case study for the interrogation of the phenomenon; the strategic management process. Apple is a leading electronics company that specializes in the production of high-end electronic devices and their respective software. This paper will analyze the various decisions that have been made by the company in consonance with their vision and mission statements to propel it to the heights it has attained. The process alluded to above is a four-stage sequence, informed by a series of components that need to be appreciated to achieve the desired consequence of the process. The steps include the analysis stage, the strategy formulation stage, the strategy development and implementation stage and finally the evaluation stage (Chaneta, 2011). The same is individually analyzed herein below in detail to elucidate their importance in the whole process. APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 3 Components of the Process and How They Synchronize for Effectiveness Situational Analysis This step involves an evaluation of the structures within and outside the company to ascertain the position of the company. An internal examination focuses on the structures and interactions within the organization, spanning from the relations within the management to the relationships between the employees and the management. This analysis further extends to an examination of the external situation of the company. For instance, the interaction between the company and the suppliers, creditors, and debtors form a vital part of this interrogation (Barney, 2014). The aspect of the competition is also a factor that is looked into when analyzing the company's economic position in the industry, alongside the statutory frameworks that are relevant to the enterprise. Formulation of Strategy This facet deals with the design and development of the strategies to be adopted and applied by the company. The phase boils down to three components, namely operational, competitive and corporate strategy. Operational strategies focus on the internal elements of the business, being the financial, human resource, marketing and production facets of management. They deal with the daily operations of the company that culminates into production and ultimate sales. Competitive strategies speak to the competition dynamics of the market. The most important step in this phase is the knowledge of the industry competition so that the strategy devised is competent enough to overcome the competition. Finally, there is the aspect of APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 4 corporate strategy. This approach focuses on the structure and forms the business takes in conducting its operations. The business vehicle defines the direction required of the enterprise and informs on the expansion strategies that the company finally adopts. Development and Implementation Once the considerations above have been dispensed with, the company then puts into place a strategy depending on the need. The development of the plan involves massive consultations among stakeholders, considering the underlying business situation. The policy thereby outlines a path the company wishes to take to achieve its strategic goals. The same is then implemented according to plan. At implementation, the components considered are the steps, methods and the procedural framework put in place to execute the said strategy. The issue of infrastructure is addressed at this point as the strategy is implemented. This is the stage that determines the order of priority of implementation according to urgency, need and the level of importance. Strategy Evaluation This is the final phase of the strategic management process. An appraisal is conducted of the procedures put in place to interrogate the results they yielded. A positive response attracts retention of the strategy with the allowance of improvement. A negative response may draw some correction if it is not fatal, or a complete overhaul of the policy. Mission Statement, Vision Statement, and People Strategy The mission and vision statements of a company are a vital component of the overall strategy a company seeks to adopt (Wheelen & Hunger, 2017). They point to a specific APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 5 destination that the company is headed and provide the bearing for the same. For Apple, the founders came up with very elaborate statements. For instance, the vision statement of the company enumerates the emphasis the company lays on innovation, and the same may be seen in their daily operation as the company does not compromise on product research and creativity. The statement also cites simplicity, which report informs the structural design and application design of Apple products. The simplicity in use of their applications is informed by the stipulates of the statement (Hill et al, 2014). Further, the statement pinpoints the target market, such that the product designers are aware of whom they are creating products for. The mission statement, on the other hand, is a declaration of their market leadership and dominance, citing the space occupied by the company as a leading industry player, and the decisive position it holds in controlling the direction of the industry. Ethics and Social Responsibility The company also seeks to distance itself from the notion that they are too profit oriented to care about the well-being of their surroundings. The company has therefore initiated the Apple corporate social responsibility programs that endear them to the local communities and focuses on the welfare of their employees. The company engages in a lot of volunteer initiatives to educate communities in the locality, as well as programs that encourage environmental conservation. They have a reduction of waste policy and minimize the use of water. The company adheres to the Supplier Code of conduct that dictates the labor rights of employees (Heracleous, 2013). Deemed as the sternest code, the company seeks to operate by the provisions therein. Further, employee health is a priority for the company and as such cases APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 6 of casualties are significantly reduced. In recruitment, the firm takes into consideration gender balancing and incorporates the affirmative action of considering minority groups. Conclusion The bottom-line is that the decisions of the company must reflect the strategy it seeks to adopt and must use the latter as a pointer towards the achievement of its ultimate goals. From the mission and vision statements to corporate responsibility, Apple is using all in its wake to achieve the goals it has set. The former is just yardstick to the accomplishment of the latter. APPLE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT 7 References Barney, J. B. (2014). Gaining and sustaining competitive advantage. Pearson Higher Ed. Chaneta, I. (2011). Strategic management process. Heracleous, L. (2013). Quantum strategy at Apple Inc. Organizational Dynamics, 42(2), 92-99. Integrated approach. Cengage Learning. Hill, C. W., Jones, G. R., & Schilling, M. A. (2014). Strategic management: theory: an integrated approach. Cengage Learning. Wheelen, T. L., & Hunger, J. D. (2017). Strategic management and business policy. Pearson. Running head: ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING Environmental Scanning Patty Ahmedou Balla Strategic Planning and Implementation Frank C. Bearden July 31, 2017 1 ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING 2 Environmental Scanning Introduction Environmental scanning, or just scanning, is the strategy employed by companies to evaluate the state of their external environment. It is a term that was borrowed from the military operation, where soldiers assessed their surroundings to inform their next cause of action. In business, scanning may also be employed to evaluate and understand the external environment that the firm is founded. Aside from the assessment of the external environment, managers also use scanning as a means of assessing the opportunities and threats for the future engagement of the enterprise, in the process also preparing for any industry shifts to avoid surprises. The process incorporates industry analysis, which involves a look at the immediate external environment of the company. It incorporates the evaluation of the company's competition, the state of the suppliers and the consumer market for their products (Bischoff et.al, 2015). In essence, it focuses on the production functions of the companies, beginning from how to source their raw material, the security of sales and the current and potential competition they anticipate in the industry market. The second aspect of the process involves the PEST analysis of the external business environment. PEST analysis is the study of the political context surrounding the industry, concerning the statutory and legal frameworks governing the industry. Further, it evaluates the economic factors and situation facing the country, informing the viability of carrying out business in the present and the future. The social environment is also interrogated in this analysis, laying focus on the social values and position of the company's surrounding. This ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING 3 review highlights the perceptions harbored by the society on the enterprise. Finally, it looks into the technological environment and progress, and how the same is likely to affect the productivity of the company in the country. Value Creation and Sustenance of Competition Value Creation Value creation entails the use or application of limited resources to acquire the highest results possibly attainable. Concerning scanning, the process identifies the most viable suppliers who provide the best materials for production at the most friendly prices. Scanning, therefore, establishes prospective market vendors who are in a position to be engaged to improve production. In the same light, the process also identifies the potential market for their manufactured or finished goods, informing the company on the viability of producing a particular set of goods or services at a given time. Further, the process goes a long way in informing the company on the statutory and legal frameworks regulating the market, and the potential developments in the same. Such a study advises the business on the feasibility of carrying out the business in the wake of impending shake-ups in the laws and directives governing the business (Du Toit, 2016). A study of the technological trends in the market also directs the company on the feasible practices to adopt to retain relevance in the industry and the investments that are likely to disappoint the enterprise in the wake of the contemporary developments in the technological realm. Sustenance of Competition ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING 4 Every business venture operates with the objective of always staying ahead of the competition. This aspiration is practically impossible without a critical examination of the external environment of the company through scanning. Competition may be sustained by competitive pricing, a factor that can only be ascertained as a consequence of scanning the external environment. Competitive pricing, on the other hand, is only achievable by smart production, a result of scanning. The production costs must be minimized while maintaining acceptable quality to allow the company price their goods efficiently. Scanning also informs the company on the target market, which gives it a due advantage over the competition. This aspect is viable only when the company focuses on the production of goods and services when they are needed by the consumers. A scan conducted in the external environment also reveals the level of competition the company faces locally and internationally, informing it on the areas where the competition is manageable and those areas where it would be a good idea to retreat their operations. Apple's External Environment Apple has one of the biggest market shares in the global electronics and software industry. However, the company has succeeded in consolidating and securing the market and excluding their market from the other industry players. It has functionalized the iTunes platform that exclusively sells the Apple software, guaranteeing the company returns on their products, especially software. Unlike other software platforms like Android, Apple has in this way managed to ensure that they get paid for their products. ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING 5 A PESTLE analysis of the external market of the company reveals that there are some aspects of that environment that the corporation lacks control over. For instance, the political stability of the US, being its country of origin, or any other country in which it has market presence, is a factor the company cannot control (Cohen, 2015). However, so far, the political environment within which it operates has been conducive and thus favorable for operations. The technological environment, on the other hand, is an aspect that the company has control over, or at least can dictate. For instance, the storage and memory technology of the world is shifting towards cloud computing. The company, being a major player in the technology space, has the means to dictate the pace with which the advancement of technology moves. Finally, a market scan of the company's external environment indicates its position with regards to the industry competitors. Companies such as Samsung and HP have endeared themselves towards consumers due to the dynamics of their products. Other new entrants also have introduced new products in the market, but pose the threat of pricing their products lower than the market standards (Wheelan & Hunger, 2017). This fact is cause for worry to Apple, although most of the latter's clients are traditional customers who are loyal to the brand due to product familiarity. General Environment Apple faces an auspicious environment. The fact that the economies of developing countries are on the rise is an opportunity that the company may capitalize on, considering the projected increase in purchasing power of citizens of the said countries. This provides a ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING 6 prospective market. On the other hand, the economies of the developed states are currently stable, creating a healthy business environment for the operations of the company. The computing and technological trends also present opportunities to the company, considering its strong command in the industry as has been highlighted above. However, the influx of new entrants with subsidized pricing strategies is a real threat to the enterprise as the latter are looking to eat into the market share commanded by Apple. Further, the increasing regulations in the legal frameworks governing the industry present an opportunity since the intellectual property controlled by Apple as a pioneer is secured. Operating Environment The operating circumstances of the company have been alluded to above, specifically in appreciation of the industry analysis. Apple has an established network of suppliers who dispense with their mandate efficiently and are willing to retain the relationship with the organization. The labor market is also favorable to Apple, which seeks to maintain a lean but talented workforce, which is highly motivated and is performance oriented. Further, the company has invested in innovation and research, which investment seeks to keep the company informed and updated on current market trends, and the position of the company Vis a Vis its competition. Finally, the production is diversified in different economies so that political stability in one area does not affect the productivity of the company. Sales are maintained in the various markets, hence the conclusion that the business is placed favorably for its present and future operations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING 7 References Bischoff, S., Mayer, J. H., Weitzel, T., & Quick, R. (2015). Applicability of Environmental Scanning Systems: A Systematic List Approach to Requirements Criteria. In Business Intelligence for New-Generation Managers (pp. 41-49). Springer International Publishing. Cohen, N. (2015). Management Structure Success in Apple, Inc. TOURO ACCOUNTING & BUSINESS JOURNAL, 18. Du Toit, A. S. (2016). Using environmental scanning to collect strategic information: A South African survey. International Journal of Information Management, 36(1), 16-24. Wheelen, T. L., & Hunger, J. D. (2017). Strategic management and business policy. pearson. Running Head: INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Internal Environmental Analysis Patty Ahmedou Balla STR/581 Frank Bearden August 7, 2017 1 INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 2 Internal Environmental Analysis Assess the Organization's Internal Environment Apple Inc. considers numerous aspects when integrating a marketing scheme. As such, the departments of the organization are interconnected in a way that they join efforts to form the marketing environment of the business (Menzel, 2013). Notably, the departments work collaboratively to evaluate the needs of the customers while at the same time creating value for these clients. Notably, the suppliers have the duty to provide the raw materials that apple requires for its production endeavors and create value for the customers as well. The marketers, on the other hand, play the significant role of observing the market and consequently note the crucial changes such as availability of supplies and the current costs and therefore enact the appropriate protocols to ensure survival in the market. Furthermore, the marketing intermediaries at Apple Inc. facilitate the sales, distribution, and promotion of the produced electronics (Carroll & Buchholtz, 2014). In fact, the group plays a significant role in assisting Apple Inc. to avail value to their clients. Therefore, the venture selects its intermediaries keenly to facilitate its smooth running. On the other hand, the firm is always in continuous competition with rivals in the market such as Samsung to ensure that it provides the best for its clients. Identify the Most Significant Strengths and Weaknesses of Your Organization Including and Assessment of the Organization's Resources. Strengths INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 3 1. Apple has an expansive scope of products to serve every classification and a predominant focus on innovation alongside prominence 2. Successful control of manufacture contributions for extension markets like America. Weakness 1. Apple Company needs to emphasize on the fixed piece of first adopters, especially in the web-based social networking environment. 2. Base consumers of Apple products are distinct to designers and owners of Apple Inc. Opportunities 1. Quick intensification of telephones, and furthermore the mobiles can be sold in developing markets. 2. Transform and gain added awareness to brand portrayal and into their fortune. 3. Enlarge the adequately extensive manufacturer portfolio. Threats The risk of substitute items toward Apple Mac PC is high. Apple works to convince their clients that their commodities are better than those of its rivals. The more separation of subject contrast with a substitute, the more eccentric the change to a replacement will happen. Apple needs to give support to augmentation if the costs are higher than other PC organization (Carroll & Buchholtz, 2014). Resources INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 4 Apple fabricates and appropriates its items around the world, with assembling centers situated in the United States, Ireland, and Asia. Apple concedes its dependence on a few singleand constrained source providers. Store network elements incorporate work and material accessibility, quality issues, dissemination, and conveyance. The association must consider how neighborhood and worldwide political, as well as financial turmoil may influence its store network, operations, and overall revenues (Menzel, 2013). Identify the Most Important Internal Environmental Factors in the General, Industry, and External Analysis About the Internal Analysis. Industry As Yang, Nam & Kim (2017) explain the Apple’s business system, the venture concentrates on the creation of a memorable client experience by providing the best products to its clients following its unique initiatives such as inventive gear, programming, and administrations. Steve Jobs, Apple's founder, had the skill to arouse individuals to dream greater. Apple's innovative work group, focused on development, has delivered mechanically propelled items since the organization's establishment. Apple keeps on flourishing in the center of unrestrained industry rivalry with its contemporary equipment and programming settings that offer a friendly interactive user interface. External A PESTLE factor investigation uncovered Apple's external corporate setting. An association must stay up to date with administrative directions, responsibility arrangement, import for its working part and trading spaces. Licenses and copyrights ensure the organization's INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 5 commodities and protected innovation. According to Carroll & Buchholtz (2014), the firm began with global and socially skilled projects to advance reusing, classroom innovation coordination, quality, and safety in the workplace. Perform Competitor Analysis Apple has a remarkable rivalry with its opponents in the industry. The rivalry is increasing, and each association needs to actualize itself in the industry, so it is less demanding for organizations to enter into the new marketplace. Apple is an electronic organization that has many rivals around, so the danger of new participants is more. Primarily, Apple's merchandise is progressed at higher costs than its competitors, so risk level is more for Apple (Menzel, 2013). The organization has numerous rivals around, yet it has critical brand esteem, a reputable name and energetically favorable position in the industry. The firm should continue to examine the five forces of Porter and find its best place in the market and do additional examination as well as development to bring new contemplations and modernizations. Assess the Structure of the Organization and the Influence This Has On Its Performance Apple's authoritative structure, and Performance, is among the perspectives adding to the business' efficient modernization. A hierarchical organization structure is known to create many development opportunities and at the same time determine the growth rate of the venture (Yang, Nam & Kim, 2017). Thus, the company has a significant chain of command that helps it to realize numerous advantages incorporated with its efficient corporate plan. The achievement of the business is connected to modernization and the administration of Steve Jobs, barring its top most hierarchical structure (Heracleous, 2013). INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 6 Apple's hierarchical structure, and Performance, is fruitful in supporting industry execution to affirm initiative in the business. Additionally, changes in this association plan can help show signs of improvement Apple's abilities, especially in the area of quick and unique modernization and project. Apple's authoritative structure enables the firm to hold on advancing rapidly (Yang, Nam & Kim, 2017). The organization’s most recent merchandise like Apple Watch is associated toward the help from the organization's sound structure. Mostly, its business culture is a restrictive corporal approach, very suitable for its endeavors. Moreover, residents are gathered on the establishment of their general mastery, information, and assets. Specialists inside the practical objectivities of an affiliation play out a particular arrangement of assignments. On the other hand, it could likewise direct to the absence of correspondence among the groups in the relationship just like the case in Apple. Determine the Organization's Competitive Position and the Possibilities This Provides The focused benefit is one of the helpful ideas found for proceeding with vital investors. There is a propensity to look at Apple as though its spirited leverage was its ability to turn out a surge of unique purchase products. Furthermore, was the colossal quality of Steve Jobs, amazing artist and energy stressed in regards to elusive elements. Moreover, it is the fundamental dissatisfaction with Jobs' relative, the present CEO Tim Cook (Yang, Nam & Kim, 2017). The stand is a fundamentally mistaken belief of Apple's lively favorable position as developed with Jobs and as of now being connected with Cook. Apple's key advantage over Microsoft, and furthermore, Samsung, as well as Amazon.com, alongside Google, lies in its choice surpass over both types of equipment and additionally programming in the Apple arrange. Also, I surmise that mastermind over both equipment, and additional programming is going INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 7 toward becoming an energetic advantage in the up and coming era of products, clients, and also innovation for Internet-related employments (Carroll & Buchholtz, 2014). Furthermore, the preferred standpoint will gain even enhance gadgets such as cell phones, and additionally, tablets, progress toward becoming apparatuses on appropriated organizes through the various sections. The firm focuses on where those personal gadgets require interfacing with a wide assortment of some different devices and besides different frameworks (Heracleous, 2013). It will be less difficult for Apple's to a great degree controlled equipment and additional programming to the application as a component of an e-installment order for the customer at the purchaser end, and the customer at the trader complete, as well as the installment characterization seller (Heracleous, 2013). All need to diminish those disgraced minutes where a cell phone and furthermore, tablet practically joins with a system likewise, where the figure of about, however insufficient, coordinating working frameworks makes it harder to control framework security. Apple itself is an innovation industry so continue acquainting most new and helpful attitude with its industry. Apple tries to diminish the cost of merchandise and safeguard strong predominance. Besides it has significantly less retail locations and should endeavor to open more stores and also a joint wander through any strong affiliation will help to extend the business (Menzel, 2013). Apple must transfer bringing most recent thoughts and modernization to grow its industry. Apple's specialists are individualistic, and besides, there is no inclination close to any gender alignment, like this Apple is a successful organization. Conclusion INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 8 Apple is a commendable business with a reliable brand name and includes various candidates such as Steve Jobs and Tim Cook who make it robust. Apple implies industry surroundings were broken down by applying SWOT and also Porter's esteem chain evaluation. Conducting a SWOT analysis, on the other hand, examined the quality, shortcomings, and opportunities alongside dangers which elucidated Apple's quality give it a defense from its rivals. Notably, deficit and risks would be overcome by study and development such that the opportunities will get more energy to the affiliation. Apple business characterization is expensive, but they, however, trust it to cut the expenses of its creation. The external settings of Apple Inc. were broken down by applying the unmanageable external variables that Apple Company lacks control. Despite the fact that it cannot restrict them, it can, on the other hand, change with them effectively to keep up its advancement and benefits. The hierarchical society speaks for the necessary foundation of the venture. Notably, the Hofstede scholarly measurement helps to examine the society. The United Kingdom is primarily known to be individualistic where natives work for self-consideration, and there is no gender discrimination. Apple’s society is therefore reasonable and proper for the general population in the United Kingdom a factor that aids the firm to maintain a fruitful relationship in the kingdom. INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 9 References Carroll, A., & Buchholtz, A. (2014). Business and society: Ethics, sustainability, and stakeholder management. Nelson Education. Heracleous, L. (2013). Quantum strategy at Apple Inc. Organizational Dynamics, 42(2), 92-99. Menzel, A. (2013). How well placed Apple is to sustain its recent success in the Consumer Electronics Industry. Yang, S. H., Nam, C., & Kim, S. (2017). The effects of M&As within the mobile ecosystem on the rival's shareholder value: The case of Google and Apple. Telecommunications Policy. Running head: STRATEGIC EVALUATION AND RECOMMENDATION FOR APPLE Strategic Plan for Apple Inc. Patty Ahmedou Balla STR/581 Frank Bearden August 14, 2017 STRATEGIC EVALUATION AND RECOMMENDATION FOR APPLE 1 Strategic Evaluation and Recommendation for Apple company Apple Company has been able to gain enormous profits for a relatively long time compared to its competitors and hence it has distanced itself from merging with other companies so as to remain at the top. In 2013, the company made a net profit of approximately 28%. To attain this, the company incorporated several strategies that boosted its business operations so as to meet the competition of other companies manufacturing electronics and products of both computer software and hardware. Despite this, the primary components of marketing are the main contributor to its success. Moreover, the company contains a sustainable move which enables it to maintain its top level since its goal is to develop in such a way that it is the most popular multimedia corporation by customers (Masi,2009). Thus, its success will be a product of its ability to offer quality electronics and software products as well as ensuring that their prices are reasonable and affordable to the average customer. This can only be achieved by ensuring that it is a company which values not only performance but also customers that it serves. The company`s corporate image is regarded as the most crucial measure that has boosted its business operation. The company has realized a relatively high growth since 2012 its stock price due to building up of good financial performance. Moreover, it has earned itself an excellent brand reputation for keeping its users informed and satisfied with its products. Further, its customer's loyalty, as well as the expansion of the closed global market, makes it the preferred choice among its many competitors. In addition, apple is a stable and growing condition due to its strong management which covers all the issues that are currently affecting and expected to occur in the way of Apple. Furthermore, being one of the most innovative product developers, its profile is able to advance in a progressive manner and thus it`s able to cover the integration with its distributors, suppliers, STRATEGIC EVALUATION AND RECOMMENDATION FOR APPLE 2 and competitors, Additionally, Apple experiences a lot of strength in its main division which earns huge profit to the apple. Compensation of Mac system Windows by the apple company is also attracting a large number of several window users and thus is likely to increase the member of users of OSX. Apple’s products are also very innovative and competitive than other companies since it’s not only innovation driven but also aims for high standards for the market and try its best to meet these standards. In his article, Bahel argued that the Apple company is strong in innovation and marketing because it is able to notice and dwell upon the most important items in a fast and effective manner. Moreover, Apple employs differentiation strategy which enables it to offer unique products by ensuring that they manufacture high-quality products that elevate consumer’s value. This is achieved through employment of scientific research in all of its business processes, the use of a product development team consisting of highly skilled members as well as reliable sales and marketing team. In addition, it has a strategically placed brand name which enables to deliver quality products. Moreover, by targeting both beginners and professions, it is able to meet the personalized needs and demands of its customers (Griffin,2014). Furthermore, Apple is to meet the market standards by employing several strategies. One of them is the strategy of the low-cost provider through which it manufactures iMac computers and iBook computers so as to meet the needs of common computer buyers since the cost of these computers is relatively low. Another strategy that Apple employs is that of Best cost providers. This strategy ensures that the consumers are given the best value for their money in an individual package that enables it to meet their needs more efficiently. The other strategies are broad differentiation and focused differentiation strategies which ensure that the design of computers in such a manner that it meets the needs of both beginners and professionals. These strategies STRATEGIC EVALUATION AND RECOMMENDATION FOR APPLE 3 enable it to enjoy a number of profits such as increased brand awareness and a stronger brand demand for the company` products through effective use its advertising budgets, effective distribution of its products through employment of reliable and extensive U.S. distribution channels, and its ability to integrate vertically because it is able to manage four businesses as one entity, that is, hardware business, software business as well as service-provider and retailer business (Griffin,2014). The other notable advantage is its good brand awareness and reputation since its brand is not only the most reputable but also the most recognizable in the world. This is contributed by factors such as perfect advertising and marketing procedures as well as the wide variety of its products. However, despite its many strengths, it faces a few weaknesses which adversely affects its performance. One of them is the overdependence on the sale of iPhones. This “weakens the company as shifts I technology, component prices or consumer tastes may severely decrease Apple`s revenue” (Masi,2009). Another weakness is the employment of direct distribution channels in India in terms of retail and online stores. This is due to the fact that Apple doesn`t have any official Apple stores in India which hinders the extent of distribution. Low innovations and new products being introduced to the market is another weakness slowing down the performance of Apple and is attributed to its low investment in research and development especially when it is compared with other companies like Samsung. Its OS is also not compatible with Android and thus users face challenges when some apps lack on iTunes store and can only be found on Google play store. Recommendation The company has a weakness of having a low market share since it does not serve well in other markets such as the Asian market. Although Apple is getting huge profits from its current STRATEGIC EVALUATION AND RECOMMENDATION FOR APPLE 4 market, it needs to expand its market and introduce its new products to the market and consequently bring more profits to the Apple shareholders. This is because Apple is putting the focus on the American market and yet there is the large potential that is available in the Asian market. Thus, Apple ought to expand its involvement in the Asian market for it to have a healthy competition with its competitors. It should also undertake the market adoption strategies while holding its position in the other markets and hence adopting a market entrance and strategies involving the development of products. Forming competitive mergers would also be beneficial to Apple in the establishment of its business in the Asian market. References Apple, Inc. (2016). Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 26, 2015. Retrieved from http://files.shareholder.com/downloads/AAPL/899225436x0xS1193125-15356351/320193/filing Griffin, D. (2014). The Main Strategies Used by Strategic Business Units. Retrieved from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/four-generic-strategies-strategic-business-units-use496.html Masi, B. (2009). Strategic Analysis, Opportunities, and Recommendations for Apple Inc. Retrieved from http://www.scribd.com/collections/3581651/Brian-Masi-StrategicAnalysis-of-Apple-Inc Running head: APPLE STRATEGIC PLAN Strategic Plan: Implementation Plan, Strategic Controls, and Contingency Plan Analysis Patty Ahmedou Balla STR/581 Frank Bearden August 21, 2017 1 APPLE STRATEGIC PLAN 2 APPLE: STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 2017 Background Apple Inc. occupies an enviable position as one of the most successful companies, not only in the technology industry, but in the world. Its success has been attributed to the vision held by its proprietors and management, and the willingness to translate that vision into the reality that is manifested in its operations. Ideally, the company focuses on consumer satisfaction by ensuring consistency in its products and continued innovation and creativity. The latter is fueled and sustained by the relentless commitment to research and the financial allocations made to the same to ensure that the company stays ahead of its market competition with regards to innovation and creativity. The company generates a strategic plan every year to steer it in its projected objectives and aspirations for the said year. However, there is no consequence in creating a strategic plan if the same has no means of attaining actualization. Therefore, for every strategic plan the company generates, it also provides a framework for its realization in the form of a strategic implementation plan. Therefore, this segment lends credence to this implementation plan. The same provides a comprehensive roadmap for the realization of the strategies the company seeks to implement and materialize for the year beginning January 2017. Objectives, action items, milestones and deadlines The enterprise, according to the strategic plan, has developed a number of objectives it purposes to dispense with within the year. For instance, it projects to develop the world’s leading handset by creating the year’s top operating system and mobile telephony specifications. The APPLE STRATEGIC PLAN 3 same extends to the applications to be included in the phone, which are projected to be a comprehensive overhaul of the previously produced versions. Further, the company intends to increase its sales to meet a projection of the highest sales quotas ever attained its history. To achieve this, the company has put in place detailed sales and marketing plan that involves the amalgation of traditional and contemporary methods and avenues to achieve the greatest market command and presence. Finally, the plan incorporates a human resource and social responsibility clause that delves into its recruitment, selection and retention plan for the year (Hill et al, 2014). A detailed perusal of the same reveals that the company has in place a lucrative proposition on the compensation segment of human resource appreciation. The same further shows the company’s plan to engage in social responsibility activities to ensure that the extended community surrounding the company benefits from its operations and existence in its locality. So far, the company has in place the requisite infrastructure to implement the objectives indicated above. The company has state of the art laboratories and manufacturing plants that are able to produce the products projected. Further, the company has over the years developed great networks with its suppliers and producers so that the raw materials are not an issue. Finally, the company has established a comprehensive reputation and with it goodwill. The networks indicated includes a solid client base that is always eager to engage in the products unveiled. The plan is stratified into four phases, spread evenly across the respective quarters of the year. There are projections and budgetary allocations for the said phases so that there is seamless transitions and execution of the plan. The first and second phases involve revamping of the marketing strategies to conform to market preferences, while the third quarter focuses on APPLE STRATEGIC PLAN 4 creating a build up to the unveiling of the flagship iPhone product of the year. The final quarter involves the actual unveiling and a subsequent post mortem of the year’s events. Functional Tactics Innovation Apple Inc. has established a history of quality manufacture of top of the charts products that leave consumers yearning and looking forward to their next technological product. Further, the company boasts of the most loyal of clients due to its culture of consistence. However, it takes care not to fall into the trap of predictability and redundancy. For innovation, the company has managed to retain its top talent who conduct elaborate market research to identify customer needs and gaps in the market that may be exploited. They also focus on finding market trends to ascertain the movement of customer preferences and subsequent expectations of the said consumers. The information they derive is then used by the software and hardware engineers to come up with top of the range applications, system specifications and product designs that correspond with the needs mentioned above. Resource allocation Apple appreciates that the implementation of any projected activity has financial implications. Therefore, the enterprise has a system that allows the implementers of any project to requisition for the funds in time to ensure that the said projects are executed expeditiously. Once the same is reviewed and approved, the funds are allocated adequately and in good time. The chart below summarizes the resource allocation summary for the strategic year as discussed in this paper. APPLE STRATEGIC PLAN 5 Organizational Change Management Strategies Involvement To affect a successful implementation plan, the incorporation has to involve all the levels of management who are to be directly affected by the change (Cameron & Green, 2015). Studies have revealed that employees are more receptive and support change initiatives that they think have the blessings of the management (Goetsch & Davis, 2014). They are more comfortable engaging in activities that have the support of top management. On the other hand, the change plans are not implementable without the input of the employees, who are essentially the drivers of the processes. Therefore, involving them from the very onset ensures that they are aware of the initiatives and give their technical input whenever required. Keeping stakeholders informed The stakeholders of the whole change exercise have to be kept in the loop throughout the process, so that they are aware of the steps and procedures involved. This kind of involvement ensures that the organization is insulated from claims of non-disclosure and high handedness. Everyone involved is engaged in every step so that they all own the process. Further, the stakeholders are therefore in a position to chip in in case of any shortfalls. Success Factors, Budget, and Forecasted Financials Ease of use The firm insists on the simplicity of its products with reference to use. Most of its products are consumer friendly and are lauded for their non-complex nature. The same has APPLE STRATEGIC PLAN 6 maintained a sense of consistency and therefore contributed to retention of customers, considering the inconsistency of the competing brands with regard to the same. Hardware and software The company, unlike other players in the industry, manufacturers both its hardware and hardware. Its products are homogenous as they use specifically customized applications. They do not rely on other companies for aspects of their innovation, and therefore the company retains control and homogeneity of its products. The budget and forecasted financials of the company are summarized in the table below, which further indicates a break even analysis of the company’s products with relation to its positioning within the market. Risk Management The biggest risk faced by the company is the ballooning industry, which, due to the flexible entry requirements, attracts a lot of players (Change & Brooks, 2015). The latter get into the market and subsequently introduce new products at very low costs, which cannot be accommodated by the original market occupants who spend a fortune in production to guarantee quality. The second risk faced by the firm is the increase in counterfeit products that are manufactured to pass off as Apple commodities. The first risk is relatively easy to manage, considering the reputation enjoyed by the company in the market. However, the company also needs to be flexible and diversify its production so that it does not place reliance of a particular set of products. Such flexibility is desirable even in the face of the dynamic technology realm and ensures the company stays APPLE STRATEGIC PLAN abreast with the latest trends in the market. Finally, the company also needs to employ legal remedies for the latter risk in addition to ensuring the manufacture of products with distinct features. 7 APPLE STRATEGIC PLAN 8 References Cameron, E., & Green, M. (2015). Making sense of change management: A complete guide to the models, tools and techniques of organizational change. Kogan Page Publishers. Chance, D. M., & Brooks, R. (2015). Introduction to derivatives and risk management. Cengage Learning. Goetsch, D. L., & Davis, S. B. (2014). Quality management for organizational excellence. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson. Hill, C. W., Jones, G. R., & Schilling, M. A. (2014). Strategic management: theory: an integrated approach. Cengage Learning. 
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