Assignment -

The objective of a reading assignment is to read, identify the main ideas of a topic and understand the concepts and relations with the whole course structure.

Part A -

1. Understand the main steps involved in the strategic change process.

2. Appreciate the need to analyze a company's set of businesses from a portfolio of competences perspective.

3. Review the advantages and risks of implementing strategy through internal new ventures, acquisitions, and strategic alliances.

4. Discuss how to limit the risks associated with internal new ventures, acquisitions, and strategic alliances.

5. Appreciate the special issues associated with using a joint venture to structure a strategic alliance.

Part B -

1. Discuss how organizational strategy is implemented through organization structure 2. Explain the building blocks of organization structure.

2. Explain the building blocks of organization structure.

3. Distinguish between vertical and horizontal differentiation.

4. Discuss the importance of integration and the relationship between differentiation and integration.

5. Explain the nature and functions of strategic control systems.