C/B/745. Strategy related questions

This paper responds to the following tasks: Q1. A clear statement of purpose or mission is a necessary element of a successful strategy. Discuss this in the context of different strategy development processes. Q2. How appropriate do you believe a resource/ capability based approach is for providing a framework for evaluating strategies in the not for profit sector? Illustrate by reference to a not for profit organisation of your choice. Q3. Ultimately, there may be no long term sustainable advantage other than the ability to organise and manage. Discuss this statement in the context of sources of competitive advantage, and the management of strategic change. Q4. In what situations are networks and alliances likely to be preferable to acquisitions as a route to corporate growth? What are the potential disadvantages of this approach? Q5. The key to a resource-based approach to strategy formulation is understanding the relationships between resources, capabilities, competitive advantage, and profitability - in particular, an understanding of the mechanisms through which competitive advantage can be sustained over time. Discuss this statement, illustrating your answer with an example of an organisation that has successfully pursued a resource based strategy. Q6. Demonstrate how a strategic groups and space analysis can be used to identify areas of opportunity within an organisation's business environment.