Examine the innumerable ways in which the external environment affects the
choice of strategy (creation of threats and opportunities), and how the external environment affects an
organization’s chosen strategic direction.
Let’s begin here by reading the following case concerning McCain Foods (note that there are several pages of
text):
Hrelements.com. (2015). How McCain responds to changes in the external environment. Retrieved from
http://www.hrelements.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/168-MC-cain-foods-How-McCain-responds-tochanges-in-the-external-environment1.pdf
Using the Times 100 article above, write a 6- to 7-page paper in which you address the following:
After performing some current research on McKain Foods, use SLEPT analysis to critically assess the external
environment of McCain Foods, and determine the extent to which the company’s strategies should be adjusted
pursuant to the opportunities and/or threats presenting themselves in the external environment.
Keys to the Assignment
In a 6- to 7-page paper, do the following:
Describe the strategy (or strategies) followed by McCain Foods.
Using the SLEPT analysis tool, assess the external environment of McCain Foods. What are the major
opportunities and threats presented by the external environment? Be sure that you include the most current
information about the company.
Based on your research and informed analysis, should McCain Foods consider making any adjustments to the
strategy or strategies you described above? Why or why not? Provide clear, rational support for your answer.
How effectively do you believe McCain Foods has been in responding to changes in the external environment?
Discuss
Sample Solution