Assessment: Individual Assignment (60% of the module marks)
Case Study:
Source: De Wit and Meyer, R. (2004) Strategy, Process, Content, Context: An International Perspective, Third Edition, pp. 663 – 679, Thomson.
Learning Outcomes
1. Critically review and apply relevant concepts, terminology and theoretical models associated with international business policies and strategies.
2. Understand the holistic nature of strategy and apply analytical techniques to solve complex problems
3. Analyse how strategic decision making enables an organisation to relate to its business environment
4. Critically evaluate and monitor the business mission, objectives and policies of international organisations
Introduction
This individual assignment will be assessed by means of a 3000 ± 10% word report. This assignment has been designed to allow you to develop and use your skills in understanding key strategic issues relating to the nominated organisation. You will be required to apply the strategic concepts studied in this module.
Task
Your task is to carry out a critical analysis and evaluation of the strategies adopted by Honda Motors to date, with the information provided and other materials researched. You will be expected to select and apply appropriate theories, techniques and models studied during the module whilst having regard to the practical aspects of strategy development.
Your assignment should be presented in a business report format and should not exceed 3000 ± 10% words (excluding executive summary, references and relevant appendices). The report should include a title page and executive summary and be fully and consistently referenced, using Harvard Referencing style. You must also submit a floppy disk or CD containing an electronic version of the report. This should be clearly labelled with your name, your course and the name of the case study.
It is recommended that you research information additional to the case study to support your arguments. This may be obtained from a diverse range of sources and you are encouraged to research the issues in whichever way you deem appropriate.
Assessment Criteria
This assignment carries a weighting of 60% of the overall module marks. The assessment will focus on the level of ANALYSIS carried out. That is, the application of THEORETICAL CONCEPTS studied in the module to the ‘practical’ case study presented. In other words, you should proceed beyond a DESCRIPTION of the company and it’s actions. You should be analysing ‘why’ rather then describing ‘what’. The assignment will be assessed and moderated by two members of staff in accordance with the marks allocated to each of the questions detailed below. 10% of the marks are set aside for the ‘presentation’ criteria.
Academic Rigour
· your ability to isolate the key strategic issues
· the coherence and depth of the analysis of those issues
· the ability to analyse the strategy context within which Honda operates
· the ability to critically review and evaluate strategic decisions made by Honda
Methodology
· the use of relevant evidence, from material provided and personal research to support any statements made
· the appropriateness of the methods used and theoretical models and frameworks applied
· the breadth and depth of research undertaken
Evaluation of data
· the ability to make sound recommendations or conclusions arising from the analysis
· the soundness of arguments put forward
Presentation
· the summary of arguments
· report layout and format
· use of illustrative material and evidence to support arguments
· the appropriateness of length
· the quantity and accuracy of referencing
Honda Motor Co. Ltd., was established in 1948, since then it has remained on the leading edge by producing high quality products that create new values, at a reasonable price, for worldwide customer satisfaction. Honda still continuous to conduct its operations with a commitment to environmental protection and enhancing safety in a mobile society. It has become the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer and one of the leading automakers. Honda has a global network of over 400 subsidiaries and develops, manufactures, and markets a wide variety of products ranging from small general-purpose engines and scooters to specialty sports cars, to earn the company an outstanding reputation from customers worldwide. Maintaining its commitment to achieving the visions of “Value Creation,” “Globalization” and “Commitment for the Future,” Honda aims to share joy with its customers worldwide, thus becoming “a company that society wants to exist.”
ATTEMPT ALL QUESTIONS
QUESTION ONE: – Reconciling Dichotomies
Underlying Honda’s innovative strategic thinking is a process that might be described as ‘reconciling dichotomies’. Using data/information from the case study in addition to your own personal research critically evaluate the process at Honda with reference to the following three key dichotomies:
Planning vs. Learning
Market Positioning vs. Developing Internal Resources
Product-related Core Competencies vs. Process-related Core Capabilities
Your answer should demonstrate understanding of relevant concepts and application of appropriate analytical techniques. [35 % marks]
QUESTION TWO: – Strategic Decision-making
With reference to Honda’s four key products: Automobile, Motorcycles, Power products, and Honda Jet, critique the use of Boston Consulting Group (BCG) Matrix as an analytical technique for effective portfolio management. You are expected to highlight the key problems with using BCG matrix and other similar techniques in generating alternative competitive growth strategies. You will find relevant additional information on these products on the company’s website – www.honda.com
[30 % marks]
QUESTION THREE: – Strategic Change/Leadership
Compare and contrast Japanese and Western strategic leadership models by reference to Table 5 in the case study (De Wit and Meyer, 2004, p. 671) and Honda’s mission to supply products of the highest quality at a reasonable price for worldwide customer satisfaction. You are expected to comment on the extent to which these models will impact on the future strategic decisions of Honda post 2006 [25% marks]
Note: Overall presentation of the report accounts for [10% marks]
- End of Assessment –
Credit:ivythesis.typepad.com
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