Question 1:

"Analysis is the critical starting point of strategic thinking." Kenichi Ohmae.

Discuss with suitable examples each of the following in the context of analysing the competitive environment of a firm in a given industry.

(a) Buyer power
(b) Supplier power
(c) Threat of new entrants
(d) Substitutes
(e) Competitive rivalry.

Question 2:

A systematic appraisal of the basic elements of the Micro and Macro external environment should enable the identification of the key opportunities and threats which management will have to take account of in developing meaningful future strategies. Discuss.