BSG Online Report Template/Example - Write an A+ Report
Written by: Dave Mar
Published: August 16th, 2024
Most of you will have to complete some sort of BSG Online comprehensive exam or write a report. Here is a guideline and template for you to base your report on. It's important to think critically about your company and it's past performance.
Mission
To unleash the best in everyone with innovative and sustainable footwear.
Vision
To move toward a better and more connected world.
Values
Authenticity in all actions
Connection with the communities served
Transformation in the lives impacted
Innovation in addressing challenges
Versatility to meet consumer needs
Environmental commitments to create a better world
Corporate Objectives
Top-Level Objectives:
Increase EPS by 30% year over year
Exceed investor expectations by 40% above weight average each year in ROE
Achieve a stock price of $125.00 by year 15
Obtain an A+ credit rating in year 16
Maintain a 100 image rating for years 13-16
Operational Objectives:
Reach 400 models by year 13
Utilize low interest rates from banks in the first two years
Make Asia-Pacific the largest facility by year 14
Achieve above average celebrity appeal by year 12
Reach 500 models by year 16
Year-by-Year Evaluation
Year 11
This year was crucial for success and corporate initiatives. A key decision was to open 3,000,000 capacity facility space in Latin America, which reduced overall costs by saving on tariffs and mitigating exchange rate fluctuations. Production improvement was also built in North America and Asia-Pacific, reducing setup costs for many models and aligning with corporate objectives.
Year 12
Operational performance was less than ideal due to management errors, including the failure to equip the Latin American facility for production. This cost millions of dollars. However, new equipment was purchased in Asia-Pacific, aligning with the operational objective to utilize low-interest loans. Improved working conditions were implemented, boosting productivity and raising the image rating.
Year 13
Investments paid off, achieving multiple top-level goals. Facility space was equipped to achieve better economies of scale, and demand increased due to a focus on differentiation and the blue ocean strategy. Price increases led to higher profit margins, and the firm reached a 100 image rating.
Year 14
Building on success, the company increased brand advertising and the number of models from 400 to 450, improving competitive advantages. Asia-Pacific reached a production capacity of 10,000,000, achieving significant economies of scale. Another facility space was opened in Latin America.
Year 15
New equipment was repurchased in North America, justified by high demand. Latin America also received new equipment, improving economies of scale. Cash was used to pay off long-term loans, maintaining a high credit rating.
Year 16
This year was critical for maintaining competitive advantages. All top-level corporate objectives were met, including a high dividend payment and share repurchase to improve ROE. Capacity was sufficient to sell in the private-label market, boosting margins.
Business Environment Analysis
Macro-Environment
The industry is influenced by various macro-environment factors, analyzed through models like PESTEL. Exchange rates, interest rates, and material costs frequently changed, impacting the firm’s strategy. The simulation lacked legal aspects, but the overall macro-environment was managed effectively.
Competitive Environment
The industry was highly competitive, analyzed through models like Porter’s Five Forces. The firm focused on building economies of scale and navigating supplier power fluctuations. The industry’s rivalry was intense, driven by factors like celebrity appeal, advertising, and competitive measures.
Micro-Environment
Internal core competencies were identified using models like McKinsey’s 7 S’s. The firm focused on a skilled workforce, resulting in low costs and high-quality production. Achievements in operations strengthened the company’s differentiation.
SWOT / Telescopic Observations
A SWOT analysis highlighted the firm’s strengths in workforce training and low production costs, with some weaknesses in market expansion. Opportunities and threats were managed effectively, ensuring continued success.
Functional Strategies
Marketing
Marketing decisions were made using models like McCarthy’s Marketing Mix 7P. The firm adapted strategies for different regions, focusing on maintaining a strong physical presence and effective pricing. The company rarely had excess capacity for private-label sales.
Operations
The firm invested in Best Practices Training and TQM, resulting in low reject rates and efficient production. Early investments in production improvements paid off, achieving operational goals.
Supply Chain and Logistics
The firm implemented strategies to save on tariffs by building facilities in Latin America and Asia-Pacific. Exchange rate fluctuations were managed to optimize shipping strategies.
Corporate Social Responsibility
The firm prioritized economic responsibilities, legal compliance, and ethical practices. Although it focused on profits, CSR efforts aligned with models like Carroll’s CSR pyramid.
Finance
The firm used low-interest loans for early expansion and later reduced debt to maintain lender relationships. Share repurchases helped meet investor expectations.
Overall Performance Review Against Investor Expectations
The firm initially missed some investor expectations due to heavy investments but met or exceeded expectations in later years, particularly in image rating and credit metrics.
Recommendations for Future Strategy
Future managers should consider enhancing overall strategy, increasing S/Q rating, advertising, retailer support, and other competitive measures. Expansion into private-label markets and facility space should be prioritized to capitalize on low competition and high reward.