Critically evaluate how organisational and HR strategies are shaped and developed in response to internal and external environmental (STEEPLED/global and competitive) factors

ASSIGNMENT FRONT SHEET

Notesforstudents:

1. Electronic copy of assignment must be submitted through Turnitin.

2. Students should ensure that they comply with Wrexham University’s plagiarism policy.

3. Students should make correct use of the Harvard referencing method.

LearningOutcomesTestedinthisAssignment:

Critically evaluate how organisational and HR strategies are shaped and developed in response to internal and external environmental (STEEPLED/global and competitive) factors.

Would students please note that achievement of the learning outcomes for this assessment is demonstrated against the assessment criteria shown below (which are not necessarily weighted equally). All marks/grades remain indicative until they have been considered and confirmed by the Assessment Board

Guidance for Assessment 2

A STEEPLE analysis is a concept used to scrutinise the macro-environment factors of a business to help organisations make informed competitive and strategic decisions. By understanding these environments, organisations can maximise their business opportunities and minimize any perceived threats to their organisation.

All published sources used should be acknowledged and correctly referenced, using the Harvard referencing system.

This is an individual assignment and is in 2 parts.

Part 1:

You are required to complete a STEEPLE analysis for your chosen organisation. Please note the STEEPLE analysis is not included in the assignment word count.

Part 2:

Using the findings from your STEEPLE analysis, identify 3 key factors that would have the most impact (either good or bad) on your organisation, and critically analyse how organisations are shaped and developed in response to these factors, to support the internal and external business environment.

Example Answer:

Organizational and HR strategies are profoundly influenced by a range of internal and external environmental factors. Let`s delve deeper into how these factors shape and develop these strategies:

1. Internal Environmental Factors: a. Organizational Culture: The prevailing culture within an organization profoundly impacts its strategies. A culture that values innovation and risk-taking may lead to HR strategies focused on fostering creativity and experimentation. b. Leadership Vision and Philosophy: The vision and philosophy of organizational leaders play a pivotal role in shaping strategies. Leaders who prioritize employee development may implement HR strategies centered on training, mentorship, and career advancement. c. Organizational Structure: The structure of an organization affects its ability to implement strategies effectively. For instance, centralized structures may lead to standardized HR policies, while decentralized structures may allow for greater customization to local needs. d. Resources and Capabilities: The availability of resources, including financial, technological, and human resources, constrains and shapes organizational and HR strategies. Limited resources may necessitate prioritization and creativity in strategy development.

2. External Environmental Factors: a. STEEPLED Factors:

   • Social: Socio-cultural trends such as demographic shifts, changing lifestyles, and values influence HR strategies related to diversity and inclusion, employee wellness, and work-life balance.
   • Technological: Rapid technological advancements require organizations to adapt HR strategies to leverage emerging technologies for recruitment, training, performance management, and communication.
   • Economic: Economic conditions such as recessions or economic booms affect HR strategies concerning compensation, benefits, workforce planning, and cost containment measures.
   • Environmental: Growing concerns about environmental sustainability drive organizations to incorporate green practices into HR strategies, such as telecommuting, waste reduction, and eco-friendly initiatives.
   • Political, Legal, and Ethical: Changes in legislation, regulations, and ethical standards influence HR strategies regarding compliance, workplace safety, labor relations, and corporate social responsibility.
   • Demographic: Shifts in workforce demographics, such as aging populations and generational diversity, necessitate HR strategies focused on talent acquisition, retention, succession planning, and knowledge transfer.

   b. Global and Competitive Factors:

   • Globalization: Increased globalization necessitates HR strategies that address cross-cultural communication, international mobility, global talent acquisition, and managing virtual teams.
   • Competitive Landscape: Intense competition in the marketplace drives organizations to develop HR strategies aimed at attracting, developing, and retaining top talent. Strategies may include employer branding, performance-based incentives, and continuous learning initiatives.

In conclusion, organizational and HR strategies are shaped by a myriad of internal and external factors. Success lies in the organization`s ability to understand, adapt to, and leverage these factors to develop strategies that align with its goals, culture, and competitive environment. A dynamic and strategic approach to strategy development enables organizations to navigate uncertainty and capitalize on emerging opportunities, ultimately driving sustainable success.