Assignment

Introduction

“Wicked” problems can’t be solved but they can be tamed. Increasingly, these are problems strategists’ face- and for which they are ill equipped.
John C. Camillus, Harvard Business Review, p 99, May 2008.

Given increasing macroeconomic environmental complexity, more and more companies are facing “wicked” problems that cannot be easily resolved.
You are required to undertake a detailed examination of a well known large international company of your choice that produces either consumer durable goods or a service to consumers. In doing so you are required to produce a report which addresses the following areas.

Attempt all the three tasks below and present your findings in the form of a report (3,000-4,000 words) divided into appropriate sections. Your report should also contain an Executive Summary (250 words) and a bibliography.

Tasks;

a)    Present a case study on your chosen company which illustrates that they are facing a “wicked” problem.
(40% of marks)

b)    Using analysis techniques, with which you are familiar, transpose this case study information into a Strategic Evaluation of the business situation.
(40% of marks)

c)    Discuss the strategic decisions that firms in this sector may be facing. What future strategies can firms pursue to try to secure their competitive advantage and long term survival?
(20% of marks)

For your information “The 10 Properties of a Wicked Problem”, a section drawn from the HBR article is attached at the end.

Further details on the procedure you are required to follow are set out below.

Procedure

1.    This is an individual project, leading to the production of an individual report.

2.    All the data and information you need to complete this assignment is in the public domain and is easily accessible via electronic means

3.    Your project should be presented in report format and should contain an Executive Summary and a Bibliography. Use of Appendices would be appropriate.

4.    Your report should be a maximum of 4000 words (excluding Appendices and Bibliography).

5.    The assessed report will be returned to you within 4 weeks. Your grade will be subject to ratification by the External Examiner and the Examination Board.

6.    You are reminded of the University’s rules on plagiarism which are rigorously enforced. Please consult the student regulations and/or your programme leader for further details.

7.    Ensure you submit the assignment electronically, through the turn it in process, via the Blackboard site.