Data for Perter & PEST

Throughout this course, you should complete the SLP before you undertake the Case analysis. Before you begin the SLP, read the Background materials thoroughly.

Several of the Background readings refer to gathering data to support the external analysis. Be sure to review those readings carefully so you know what kind of data is used when conducting an external analysis. The purpose of this SLP is to develop the component of our strategic toolkit that relates to Five Forces and PEST analysis. This SLP is challenging; however, understanding how to perform basic business research is a procedure that is part and parcel to the skill set of any MBA.
Session Long Project

The key aspects of this assignment that should be covered in your paper are:

Step One: Research Web and library sources that would give you the kinds of data you would need to conduct a Porter Five Forces analysis. Use the Kraft Foods Group (and thus, the foods industry) as the basis for this SLP. Note: We are not looking for sites that describe the Five Forces, but sites that will provide you with data that you will be able to use to conduct your own external environmental analysis (e.g., to analyze the degree of competition in an industry, or the ease of substitution). You have undoubtedly run into such websites and publications before in your core courses. Typically, they are government sources providing statistical data, industry or trade magazines or journals, general business publications, finance websites, websites for trade associations, etc.
Step Two: This is a two-stepprocess:
Determine what kinds of information you would need to evaluate each of Porter's forces (see the background materials), and then find a source that will give you that information. Find a minimum of one or two sources for each of Porter's forces.
Research Web and library sources that would give you data to support a PEST analysis. Find at least one or two sources for each PEST variable.
Step Three: For each source you have given above, provide a title and a URL (if applicable), and write a sentence or two explaining what information is provided by the source and how the source would be useful in conducting an external analysis, and critiquing the source (e.g., what are the strengths and limitations of the source)?
Note: There are no length requirements for the SLP, however, you must address the above requirements precisely (two sources for each Porter and PEST factor), and you must critique the validity of each source with adequate depth.