MGT499 - Strategic Management

Module 4 - Case

Strategic Management: Internal Analysis and SWOT

In Module 4 Case Assignment, we will be looking inside of Harley Davidson in order to identify its strengths and weaknesses. It is important to consider how these factors will either help the company overcome the threats (or make it more vulnerable), or put it in a position where it can take advantage of opportunities (or will have to let them pass by because they do not have the internal resources to act).

To complete Module 3 Case Assignment, please read the information in the background material, look for more information (from previous modules and library resources), and then write a 4 to 5 pages report answering the following questions:

i) What are HD's top two or three strengths for moving forward in the competitive motorcycle manufacturing and sales environment?

ii) Describe what you consider to be two or three of the weaknesses that are likely to have the greatest impact, and what HD is doing (or should be doing) to overcome these weaknesses?

iii) Wrap up by overviewing the more salient points of your entire SWOT analysis (from your Mod 3 and 4 case assignment) and give your impressions in relation to whether you think the corporation will continue to be competitive and be able to continue to meet its mission.

NOTE: Please note that your report/assignment will not be accepted without proper citations and references. You must use the sources from the background material together with the sources you find your own.

Case Expectations:

This paper should include:

An introduction stating the thesis, position, or central theme you plan to take in your paper, a main body discussing focusing on the key assignment specifications, and a conclusion concisely stating the main points of your analysis and the conclusions you reached.

Be sure to document your sources and provide in-text citations whenever you use information you obtained from a background reading or other outside source, as well as a separate reference list at the end of the paper. You may use footnotes instead, if you prefer, but you MUST document where you got the information you are using in your papers!

The following criteria will also be used to assess your paper:

1. Precision: Does the paper address the question(s) or task(s)?

2. Breadth: Is the full breadth of the subject, i.e., all the keys to the assignment, addressed?

3. Depth: Does the paper/report address all elements of the topic in sufficient depth? Does it include and apply the background readings and other background resources? Are they included as references?

4. Critical thinking: Are the concepts of this module applied accurately, logically, and relevantly?

5. Organization: Is the paper organized in a coherent and systematic manner? Are headings included in all papers greater than 2 pages?

6. Clarity: Is the writing clear and the concepts articulated properly? Are paraphrasing and synthesis of concepts the primary means of response to the questions, or are thoughts conveyed through excessive use of quotations?

Your assignment will be graded based upon the criteria explained in the following link: Grading Rubric

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