Main ideas and thesis sentences are really two sides of the same coin. Writers create thesis sentences. Readers pick out the main idea from what they read, which is usually the thesis sentence of the

Questions for Individual Case Analysis

Please note that the questions might be different for each case. Respond to the questions in 1-2 pages (12-point Font Times New Roman, single- or double-spaced). You need to select 2 of the 5 cases that I have uploaded on Blackboard.

Questions for the Equal Exchange case:

1. Outline Equal Exchange’s value chain and discuss how the company’s value chain activities and support functions differ from other firms’. Do they create exceptional customer value in any way? (Note: value chain activities refer to sourcing of their raw materials like coffee beans, processing, marketing and distribution, after sales service etc.)

2. Identify and review the key strategic issues facing Equal Exchange. Does the company’s unique business model provide Equal Exchange with a sustainable competitive advantage?

Questions for the Colombia Sportswear case:

1. Perform a SWOT analysis to specify the strengths and weaknesses of Columbia’s resources and the opportunities and threats existing in its external environment. What are the market characteristics which will influence the company’s strategic decisions?

2. Discuss the approaches used by the company to grow the business over the past two decades. In what ways are these strategies suitable for Columbia moving forward? Are they deficient in any way?

Questions for the J C Penny case:

1. Review J.C. Penney’s business strategy in the recent past. What are some of the things the company has done well? What has it done wrong?

2. Compare the company’s approach and results to those of its key competitors. What are some of the lessons of this analysis?

Questions for the Harley Davidson case:

1. Outline the threats in Harley-Davidson’s external environmental. Which threats pose the greatest short-term and long-term risks for the company?

2. Identify the company’s core competencies. Given the existing situation, does Harley-Davidson have a competitive advantage that is sustainable?

Questions for the Facebook case:

1. Define and discuss the interests of Facebook’s major stakeholder groups. What measures does the company take to manage its different stakeholders? How does it prioritize or balance their different needs?

2. Based on your knowledge of Facebook’s current situation, what are the most critical issues demanding the attention of its leaders? What recommendations can you make to ensure the company’s future success?