Strategic Adaptation and Sustainability in the Evolving Retail Landscape

Implementing Strategy and Change Assignment Brief

Word Count – 3,000 words (+/- 10%)

(I.e., absolute max 3,300

Weighting - 100

Assignment Question:

Within the module, you will be invited to select an organisation of your choice, this organisation is your selection, however we have several recommendations as to how you might choose:

1. An organisation where you wish to work in the future (graduate scheme etc).
2. The organisation where you completed your placement.
3. An organisation that you find particularly interesting.
4. An organisation within an industry where you feel you could offer some insight.

The module has introduced you to several ideas in terms of the process of implementing a strategy and creating change.  In particular, the module has instilled the importance of ‘the plan, the people, the purpose and the planet’ – we would expect these factors would be an important part of your assignment

Our suggestion (…and only our suggestion) is that you might format your assignment as follows:

In all areas, incorporate relevant theory to support your arguments.

Introduction (150 words)

Part One – The Current Strategic Position (900 words)

Consider the current internal position of your organisation.

Consider the key drivers for change from an external perspective.

What is the organisation’s current strategic position, mission, vision, sense of value? 

Is the organisation’s strategy suitable and acceptable regarding the external environment and the various stakeholders

If required, the models to complete this section may be placed in your appendices.

Part Two – The Contemporary Environment (900 words)

The People (300 words)

Consider the current culture, commitment and buy-in for the organisation’s strategy.  If necessary, how might this need to change?

The Purpose (300 words)

What is the purpose of the strategy and overall mission and vision of your organisation and intended strategy?  Why does it matter?  Does this relate to ‘the people’ and achieving employee buy-in?  Could this be changed

The Planet (300 words)

What is the impact on the planet?  Where is the need for sustainable and responsible business approaches, does this form a part of the strategy, mission?

Part Three – Recommendations (900 words)

What are your overall recommendations, what needs to change and be implemented to achieve your updated strategy and plan?  What is your overall recommendation for strategic change?  What needs to change, who needs to change and what considerations need to be given to the planet?

The recommendations should be clear and consistent with your overall report.

Conclusion (150 words)

References

Appendices

Naturally, the format and structure of your assignment and arguments will be influenced by the type of organisation that you select (for example, a particularly un-ethical organisation might need more focus (words) for ‘the planet’.  Your tutor will support you in the development of your ideas and word weightings in your assignment.  

Realistically you cannot and will not include ‘all’ the theory from the Lectures and Seminars, consider which theory is most relevant for your arguments and position, and focus on using this well, rather than using everything poorly (and to lesser impact).