Strategic Business Analysis
Assignment 2 (Portfolio) Explained
Guidance for Assignment 2:
• Each topic should provide answer of approximately 900-1000 words long (Word count approx. 2000 for the two topics)
• Your answers should provide evidence of discussion and analysis using an appropriate structure in paragraphs – NOT bullet points;
• Relevant academic theories (frameworks/models) should be applied to support key points in the analysis.
• Harvard format should be correctly used in both citations and reference list.
• Relevant organisational examples should be given to support the analysis and discussion
Summary of Seminar Topics
Seminar Topics Chapter in
Johnson, Scholes and Whittington (2011) Theories
(frameworks/models) and key Concepts
that can be applied
1. Resource-based competitive advantage Chapter 3 a) Capability matrix
– Strategic capabilities (distinctive resources & core competences) as sources of competitive advantage
b) Value Chain analysis
c) SWOT analysis (focusing on strengths and weaknesses)
2. Mergers and Acquisitions Chapter 10 Types of mergers and acquisitions
Strategic motives for M&A (Extension, Consolidation, Capabilities)
Financial motives; Managerial motives
1. Resource-based competitive advantage
To what extent do you agree with the view that organisations need to consider their internal resources if they are to gain and maintain a competitive advantage?
The following theories/frameworks can be applied to answer this question:
a) Capability matrix
• Strategic capabilities (distinctive resources & core competences) as sources of competitive advantage
b) Value Chain analysis
c) SWOT analysis (focusing on strengths and weaknesses)
2. Mergers and Acquisitions
Discuss the benefits and challenges of Mergers and Acquisitions
Your answer may include the following:
• Explain mergers and acquisitions and identify some specific examples
• What are strategic motives for M&A (e.g for Extension, Consolidation, Capabilities etc); Financial motives; Managerial motives etc and give examples.
• What are the benefits and challenges of the M&A? Is there any evidence of competitive advantage from any of your examples?
• If there is any evidence of competitive advantage in your examples, this could also be supported by some ideas e.g from the resource-based (e.g capabilities as motives) or market-based motives.
• Why did your chosen organisation go for merger? (Synergy, acquiring new technology, improved profitability, acquiring a competency, entry into new markets, access to founds, tax benefits )
The structure of the Essay should start with an impressive introduction. That follows the body of essay conclusion finally reference list
Key Assessment Criteria
Marks will be awarded for demonstrating that
You have prepared actively and appropriately to meet the learning outcomes for this portfolio
Your portfolio is not simply descriptive – it also demonstrates a substantial amount of critical analysis and synthesis of relevant academic models/ theories
Your portfolio includes relevant organisational examples
Your portfolio is fully and correctly referenced both in the text and at the end
