Strategies for Competitive Advantage
Environmental Analysis Paper
Introduction
"A host of external factors influence a firm's choice of direction and action and, ultimately, its organizational structure and internal processes" (Pearce and Robinson, 2004). These factors are the basis for the forces and trends research. This essay presents the research on forces and trends as they affect specific businesses. This research will allow businesses to identify not only forces and trends, but also challenges and opportunities.
General Electric-
Technical
In the energy/utility industry, technological forces and trends are important factors to identify and understand. This may include creative technological adaptations or technological breakthroughs. The competitive climate is characterized by changing technology that requires continued research and development. "Creative technological adaptations can suggest possibilities for new products, for improvements in existing products, or in manufacturing and marketing techniques" (Pearce and Robinson, 2004).
The ability to notice trends early has provided the competitive edge for General Electric. Rising costs for energy, water, global warming and greening, trends bring concerns to General Electric. They realize issues regarding energy efficiency policies and emission standards need to be addressed. The world's energy market is changing. To meet the challenges, technology will pay a huge role for GE. Breakthroughs in renewable energy, fuel cells, nuclear energy and coal gasification will have a tremendous impact on the environment and GE customers. Ecomagination is GE's commitment to address challenges such as the need for cleaner, more efficient sources of energy, reduced emissions, and abundant sources of clean water. It is GE's commitment to help their customers and society at-large solve environmental challenges and drive future growth for their company through a diverse
References: Gottlieb, Jonathan. (2005, June 1). In Trendspotting in the Energy Sector. Retrieved November 25, 2007, from Proquest.umi.com.ezpozy.appolibrary.com. Green, K.M., Colvin, J.G., Slevin, D.P. (2007). Exploring The Relationship Between Strategic Adaptability And Entrepreneurial Orientation: The Role Of Structure- style Fit. Retrieved on November 25, 2007 from http://www.babson.edu/entrep/fer/2006FER/chapter_xxiii/paperfr_xxiii_3.html. Griggs.Tom. (2007, November 10). Electro Cautious on Global Trends. London 1st Edition. Retrieved on November 25, 2007 from http://proquest.umi.com.expoxy.appololibrary.com Hirst, Eric. Electric Utilities and Energy Efficiency. Retrieved on November 25, 2007 from http://ornl.gov/info/ornlreview/rev28_2/text/uti.htm. Scarpa, James. (2007, November 5, 2007) Efficient Energy Equals Surplus Cash for Operators. Retrieved on November 25, 2007 from http"//proquest.umi.com/ez[rpxu/appppoliolibrary.com. University of Phoenix. (2004). Week two white papers. Conducting an Environmental Scan. Retrieved November 27, 2007, from University of Phoenix, Week Two, rEsource. MBA580-Strategies for Competitive Advantage Course Web site. Valocchi, F. Michael. The Key to Economic Expansion in Utilities. Retrieved on November 25, 2007 from www.ornl.gov/info/ornlreview/