QUESTION 1 (25 MARKS]

In the context of a South African organisation that aims to transform its operational structure to adapt to market shifts, research and outline the components and stages of Kotter’s eight-step change model. Discuss how this model can be applied in a South African business environment facing challenges due to economic fluctuations and evolving market demands. You are free to choose an organisation of your choice.

QUESTION 2 [25 MARKS]

Investigate McKinsey’s 7-S Framework by explaining how the interplay among strategy, structure, systems, shared values, skills, style, and staff can impact organisational change in a South African context.

Provide specific examples of how these elements might manifest in a South African company undergoing transformation. You are expected to choose a company of your choice.

QUESTION 3 [25 MARKS]

Analyse and evaluate the three generic strategies proposed by Porter in terms of their applicability to diverse organisations. Provide a detailed discussion on the suitability of each strategy—low-cost leadership, differentiation, and focus—for various organisations operating in South Africa.

Support your analysis by citing specific examples of companies that have effectively implemented these strategies in the South African business landscape.

QUESTION 4 [25 MARKS]

Amidst the competitive retail industry in South Africa, envision a scenario where a leading grocery store chain aims to enhance its market position through strategic expansion and improved customer experience.

Using the balanced scorecard model as a strategic management tool, outline the fundamental aspects of this framework and its relevance in evaluating business performance in the retail sector in South Africa. Highlight key perspectives such as financial, customer, internal processes, and learning or growth.

Answers to Above Questions on Strategic Management

Answer 1: Kotter’s eight step change model is an important framework that is utilised for the purpose of managing change in organisation. The application of this particular framework in order to analyse the change management process in a selected South African organisation i.e. Shoprite holdings is performed as follows: