Semester 2
Question 1 “The aim of strategic management is to ensure that an organisation achives a
competitive advantage and sustains its competitive advantage over competitors.” Apply
the process perspective of strategic management process to the Michelin company,
focusing on the ‘History of the Michelin Guide’. In your answer, you need to explain each
stage in the process perspective of strategic management and apply it to Michelin and
the development of the Michelin Guide as an effort of the company to sustain its
competitive advantage. (21 marks, of which 7 marks will be awarded to each of the stages
correctly explained and applied to the case)
Strategic Management Process: An Overview
The strategic management process typically includes the following stages:
1. Environmental Scanning
2. Strategy Formulation
3. Strategy Implementation
4. Strategy Evaluation
1. Environmental Scanning
Explanation: Environmental scanning involves analyzing the internal and external environment
of the organization to identify opportunities, threats, strengths, and weaknesses. This stage is
crucial for understanding the context in which the organization operates and preparing for
strategic decision-making.
Application to Michelin:
● Historical Context: When Michelin first launched the Michelin Guide in 1900, the
company was primarily a tire manufacturer. At that time, the automobile industry was
emerging, and Michelin saw an opportunity to capitalize on the growing travel culture.
● Internal Factors: Michelin’s strengths included its expertise in tires and its strong
distribution network. The company's resources and capabilities were leveraged to create
a product that could enhance its brand visibility and customer engagement.