You will identify the problem or opportunity and discuss
a viable solution based on your analysis of the case. The general structure of all critical analyses:
1. Describe the business situation, including the macro-environmental and micro-environmental
conditions facing the organization.
2. Develop the problem statement: the opportunity or threat facing the organization.
3. What alternative strategies and programs would you consider to deal with the opportunity or
threat to the organization? Present each alternative in sufficient detail to give the reader an
idea of why it may be beneficial.
4. Recommend one or more of the alternatives you have identified. Inform the reader of your
reasons for these recommendations.
5. Describe tracking metrics to determine whether your recommended strategies and programs are
effective. Be sure to include both intermediate and conclusive metrics to guide management’s
redirection of ineffective strategies.
6. Summarize what you have learned from your critical analysis.
NOTE: The first critical analysis of the semester will be in two parts: a one-page bulleted outline of
the proposed report (value 5 points), and, following the instructor’s approval of the outline, a final
written report with a maximum length of three pages (10 points). The initial outline will include all of
the elements of the complete critical analysis:
1. Macro-environmental and micro-environmental issues.
2. Concise problem statement.
3. Alternative strategies and programs.
4. Recommended solutions.
5. Intermediate and conclusive program performance metrics.
You are encouraged to do external research on the industry or the company as a context for your
analysis. APA format in-text source citations and a comprehensive bibliography are required for
each critical analysis report. Your report must include the focal reading plus at least three
references in addition to the company’s website or Wikipedia.
