Reference no: EM132224012

Assignment: Case Analysis Discussions

Purpose

The case analyses allow students to apply strategic decision-making tools in practical contexts. Each case analysis consists of guiding questions.

A strong case analysis will build connections to theories discussed in the course.

How to Proceed
1. Read the assigned case study noted on the course schedule.
2. Open the discussion forum assigned to the case.
3. Answer the questions noted in the discussion forum by the deadline. Students will have one week to complete the case analysis.
4. The second week of the case analysis will allow students to discuss the case, read through other responses and provide comments and questions. Students will be required to respond to at least two other postings. Active participation in the discussion forum is expected.

1. Do an internal analysis of the Prince Edward Island

Preserves Company (the six functions - HRM, marketing, operations, etc.)

2. Do a SWOT for PEI Preserves. The strengths and weaknesses will come from step 1. The threats will come from the case. The opportunities will be the sales channels:
a. Retail
b. Mail order
c. Wholesale
d. Enter the Japanese marking through exports
e. Open a cafe/gardens.

3. Do the VRIO after the SWOT and identify the core competence(s) as appropriate.

4. Include the above in your discussion post before answering the four questions given for the case.
For the four questions asked in the assignment description:

1. The answer to question 1 will be found in the weaknesses and threats, above.

2. Give your opinion about each of the sales channels: would it be profitable, or not? Explain why.

3. Which sales channel would be best, in your opinion? Why? Should the company continue creating/selling organic products? Why/why not?

4. How would YOU go about implementing the choice of your optimal sales channel?
For the opinion questions, as long as the reasons you give are coherent, you will get marks. If your reasons would support another conclusion better, or actually contradict your conclusion, you will lose marks.

Case: Prince Edward Island Preserve Company: Turnaround (Product Number 9B08M049)

Why did Prince Edward Island Preserves go into receivership in 20087?

What is your assessment of the financial viability of each option of PEI Preserves (i.e retail, mail order, wholesale, Japanese export, café and gardens)?

What is your assessment of the pros and cons of MacNaughton's growth alternatives - what product market would you choose to pursue and why? What, is any, role should the organic product line play in the company's overall strategy?

Develop an implementation plans for your chosen alternative.