Scanning and Analysis

The Competitive Environment: Scanning and Analysis
When you respond to the DQs I am looking for your own original responses. If you choose to use an additional source to support your thoughts that is great, however, you must be sure to cite your source. Do not just post information from a source to answer the questions. My expectation is that you will write your own thoughts in the DQ answers, and use supplemental sources to support your thoughts, if applicable.
Objectives:

1. Apply appropriate methodologies to identify conditions in the external competitive environment.
2. Identify competencies required to compete in a given industry.
3. Match internal capabilities with required competencies to determine competitive advantage.
4. Determine key activities and SMART goals that will contribute to the development of the competitive advantage.

DQ# 1 (A least 150 words)
Assessment Description
Why does scanning the external environment play such a significant role in strategic analysis? How do unexpected daily events warrant significant analysis, and how would you determine their significance? As a strategic analyst, how would you approach and be prepared for their inevitable occurrence?

DQ# 2 (A least 150 words)
Assessment Description
Describe a historical situation where a failure to assess and correctly interpret the external environment resulted in a business’ failure. What elements of the external environment were missed? How might the company have corrected this oversight? Cite any sources used to support your answer.