I operate a small company specializing in manufactured housing. I have been working with the XX...

I operate a small company specializing in manufactured housing. I have been working with the XX Small Business Development Center and they thought you might be able to help me since you are completing a course in strategic management. I am not sure if strategic planning would benefit me. What do you think?

I also have a couple of specific questions for you.

1) Did you learn anything that would help me analyze my business environment?

2) Someone told me that completing a value chain analysis and a SWOT analysis would be helpful. Would you please explain how I might use them and what I would learn for them?

As you can see, I am new to the field of strategic management so any insights you have will be appreciated.

Expert Solution

1) You must realize the increasing demand for manufactured housing. The demand is growing with change in professional living. People often need to travel from one place to another for work or travel requiring an extended stay. These are called mobile homes. Their requirement is increasing owing to the increase in businesses such as fast foods, books, artifacts and other movable items. These individuals use the mobile home for business as well as housing.

2) The value chain analysis would help you trace your manufacturing processes such that the lacunae and issues in the processes may be identified. It would help you realize which are the problem areas and thereby help you in resolving the issues .and improving the overall productivity. You will also be able to eliminate or at least reduce the wasteful activities which are draining you financially. In addition to this improved quality can be achieved.

As for the SWOT analysis, it stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. Strengths are the positive qualities or assets possessed by the firm. Weaknesses are the qualities or characteristics which the firm lacks. Opportunities are the market-related prospects which if tapped by the company, can benefit the organization.While the threats are the risks or probable obstacles to the firm.The strengths and weaknesses are internal to the organization, while the opportunities and threats are external.

These tools will help you improve your processes and improve further to attain greater business growth,

keosha answered 2 years ago

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