Nige10

This exam consists of a limited choice in section B (two questions from 3) and a compulsory
section A question comprising 50 marks. Many questions lend themselves to be answered using a range of models and ideas. Consequently it is dangerous to limit your study. Broad syllabus coverage is important for success in this exam.

Certain key themes do however arise form the syllabus and examiners comments. Section A
is squarely located in the strategic elements of the syllabus (A to C) therefore the stages of
position, choice and action will be the focus of this part of your exam.

Another favored theme is that of software solutions to modern business processes including
supply chain management, e-marketing and enterprise systems.

Finally, people and finance are underlying themes of the paper and so the people and financial aspects of the scenario may be sources of some marks in questions even if they are not specifically asked for.

Use the following tips as important areas to cover but remember that no one knows what is in the exam, apart from the examiner. Your safest bet is to achieve good syllabus coverage in your revision, as the examiner aims to do in the exam.

Strategic analysis

Key models of analysis include mission and objectives, stakeholder analysis, PESTEL, Porters five forces and diamond models, the value chain, Ms and portfolio analysis. This may culminate in a SWOT and appraisal of the organizations overall position.

Strategic choice

The syllabus makes a distinction between the approach and role taken by the corporate parent and a Strategic Business Unit (SBU). You should therefore ensure that you are aware of the differences and be able to identify the appropriate approach from the scenario in the question.

Key models here include Porter’s Generic strategies, Bowman’s Strategy Clock, Ansoff's matrix and Lynch’s expansion matrix.

Finally the strategic criteria for assessing options of Suitability, Acceptability and Feasibility may be employed to justify recommendations.

Strategic action

Implementation issues cover much of the rest of the syllabus and could include issues of culture (e.g. Cultural web, Handy’s cultures, Miles and Snow), quality (TQM, six sigma, CMMI, V-model), process improvement and software selection (Harman, Skidmore and Eva), e-business or people management (e.g. planning, recruitment, performance management, development) or change management (Force Field analysis)

ADBot