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BUS 400 Study Resource: Discussions, Blogs, Assignments, and Project Milestones Instructions

Published: 2025-10-01

Modified: 2025-10-01

Table of Contents

Introduction

This resource offers a complete overview of BUS 400, covering discussions, blogs, assignments, and project milestones. It provides clear explanations, examples, and practical strategies to handle tasks confidently. With the support of MBA Assignment Help from Owlisdom, learners can strengthen business knowledge, improve critical thinking, and excel in their coursework.

BUS 400 1-1 Discussion: Building Your Network

Instructions for BUS 400 1-1 Discussion

1-1 Discussion: Building Your Network

Discussion Topic

In this discussion, you will introduce yourself to the class.

In your initial post, introduce yourself and address the following:

Provide your preferred name if it is different from your name as shown in Brightspace.
Define your professional identity by describing your current and/or past professional roles.
Share some of your professional goals.

In your replies, select at least two peers’ posts that sparked your interest, and get a conversation started. If you need some ideas, you may ask, “Do you have any big projects or career goals in mind?” “What does your day-to-day look like?” “Any advice you can share from your lessons learned?” These are just some examples of conversation starters; you may have alternative questions that will help you connect with colleagues.

1-2 Blog: Project Analysis

Assignment

BUS 400 Module One Blog Guidelines and Rubric

Overview

Raising money to invest in innovation is hard. Companies, both large and small, work to strike a balance between executing an existing business model and thinking ahead to advance their business. As individuals think critically about how their business should move forward, they should first get a 360-degree view of their environment. This journey starts with research on the current state of the company and critical thinking questions that can help leaders drill down deeper.

Prompt

In this blog post, you will take on the role of the recently promoted chief innovation officer (CIO) of an established U.S.-based company of your choosing. It is within your responsibilities to discover new ways to improve an existing product or service in North America, or to introduce a new product or service to the market that will give the company a market edge over the competition and align with the company’s core competencies. For this blog post, and for this entire course, you will do the latter.

The new product or service must be something that cannot be easily duplicated and take into account consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP). If a consumer doesn’t have a problem or need for the product or service offered, they will not be willing to exchange money for the solution.

The first step of such an undertaking requires research and an examination of the selected company’s financials and current resources. Moreover, this new product or service offering must capitalize on the company's strengths.

Using MarketLine, Yahoo Finance, and the investor relations page on the company’s website, select and research an established company of your choice. Specifically, look at the company’s 10K Report with a focus on the company’s business in North America. You will continue to research and work with this company throughout this course in the milestones and projects.

In your blog post, identify the company you researched and describe its potential new and unique product or service. Include an image of the company’s current SWOT from the Shapiro Library and address the following questions:

Value proposition: What is the company’s main business?
- What value does the company deliver to the customer?
Profitability: Is the company currently profitable?
SWOT analysis strengths: What are the company’s main strengths to be leveraged to create a new product or service?
Product or service singularity: What is unique about the new product or service?
New product or service projections: How can the new product or service improve profitability? Note: this is an estimation based on research of the company’s current market position.

What to Submit

Your blog post must be between 400 and 800 words in length and be submitted as a Word document. Your blog post should be written in a professional voice and should be appropriately formatted for a blog. Any sources cited should use APA formatting.

Below are some additional resources for improving your blog:

How to Write a Blog Post for Beginners: This article is an introduction to writing blog posts.

12 Easy Ways to Improve Your Blog: This article examines important elements in developing your own blog.

Blogging Best Practices PDF: This bulleted list gives you a quick summary of the best practices top bloggers use.

Introduction to BUS 400 1-1 Discussion

Welcome to the BUS 400 1-1 Discussion: Building Your Network! This first discussion post revolves around your understanding of building your network. I will provide brief and descriptive guidelines to solve the 1-1 Discussion post and a dummy solution for each section. This Owlisdom How-To Guide will equip you with guidelines to tackle all the queries related to the 1-1 Discussion post. Let us begin with the guide.

Introduce yourself and provide your preferred name if it differs from your name, as shown in Brightspace.

About You

To start BUS 400 1-1 Discussion: Building Your Network, we will greet our classmates and express our enthusiasm for the course. We will also mention what excites us about exploring U.S. business opportunities.

Begin with a friendly greeting.
Express your interest in the subject.
Mention what you hope to learn or achieve.

Keep it brief and to the point.

Example

Hello, classmates! I am thrilled to be part of this journey, where we will dive into the dynamic world of U.S. business opportunities. My name is Alex on Brightspace, but I would love it if you could call me AJ. I am particularly excited about understanding how innovative startups thrive in competitive markets and how technology shapes new business models. I aim to gain insights and practical skills that will empower me to contribute meaningfully to the tech startup scene.

Define your professional identity by describing your current and past professional roles.

Defining Your Professional Identity

In this section of BUS 400 1-1 Discussion: Building Your Network. We will talk about what you do professionally or what roles you have held. This helps others understand your background.

Mention your current job or past roles briefly.
Share what sector or industry you work in.
Highlight a key responsibility or achievement.

Example

Currently, I am navigating the exciting world of digital marketing, focusing on content strategy and social media engagement within the tech industry. Previously, I have dabbled in various roles, from project coordination to graphic design, primarily in startups that champion innovative solutions. A standout achievement of mine was leading a campaign that increased our web traffic by 200% in six months, significantly boosting customer engagement and product awareness. This blend of creative and strategic roles has equipped me with a unique perspective on building and marketing brands effectively in today’s digital age.

Share some of your professional goals.

Sharing Professional Goals

Next, in this BUS 400 1-1 Discussion: Building Your Network section, we will explore how to share our professional goals with our classmates during the discussion. We will discuss your aspirations for advancing in your current field or exploring new opportunities.

State a specific goal you are working towards.
Keep it concise; one or two sentences are enough.

Example

One of my primary professional goals is to transition into a leadership role within the tech industry, focusing on innovation and product development. I aim to spearhead projects that push the boundaries of technology and have a tangible, positive impact on society. Additionally, I am keen on enhancing my expertise in data analytics and machine learning to drive decision-making in business strategies. This ambition drives me to seek opportunities that challenge me and allow personal and professional growth.

As we embark on this educational adventure, my journey from a multifaceted background in digital marketing to aspiring leadership in tech innovation mirrors my eagerness to evolve and contribute significantly to the tech industry. I am excited to exchange ideas, learn from each of you, and uncover the myriad opportunities the American business landscape offers.

In your replies, select at least two peers’ posts that sparked your interest, and start a conversation.

Engaging with Peers

BUS 400 1-1 Discussion: Building Your Network requires at least two peer responses. I will provide an example of a reaction and the writing response guidelines.

Choose posts that you find interesting or relatable and explain why they caught your attention.
Be genuine in your interest.
Ask questions that are open-ended to encourage dialogue.
Use the suggested conversation starters or create your own.
Keep your questions broad to allow for detailed responses.
Share insights from your experiences or ask for guidance from your classmates.

Response 01

Hey Jordan, nice post! Your career goals inspired me. I am confident we will get along well because of the goals you are interested in; I am looking into something similar and wondering how to kickstart the process.

Response 02

I have addressed the given instructions in one response. Following these instructions, you can quickly write your peer responses to 1-1 Discussions without hassle.

Closing

Remember, the key to BUS 400 1-1 Discussion: Building Your Network success is being concise, clear, and engaging. Keep your language simple and approachable, and do not hesitate to share a bit of your personality in your discussion post. Good luck!

In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 1-2 Blog on Project Analysis.

BUS 400 1-2 Blog: Project Analysis

Instructions for BUS 400 1-2 Blog

Overview

Prompt

In this blog post, you will take on the role of the recently promoted chief innovation officer (CIO) of an established U.S.-based company of your choosing. It is within your responsibilities to discover new ways to improve an existing product or service in North America, or to introduce a new product or service to the market that will give the company a market edge over competition and fit within the company’s core competencies. For this blog post, and for this entire course, you will do the latter.

The new product or service must be something that cannot be easily duplicated and takes into account consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP). If a consumer doesn’t have a problem or need for the product or service offered, they will not be willing to exchange money for the solution.

Value proposition: What is the company’s main business?
- What value does the company deliver to the customer?
Profitability: Is the company currently profitable?
SWOT analysis strengths: What are the company’s main strengths to be leveraged to create a new product or service?
Product or service singularity: What is unique about the new product or service?
New product or service projections: How can the new product or service improve profitability? Note: this is an estimation based on research on the company’s current market position.

What to Submit

Below are some additional resources for improving your blog:
How to Write a Blog Post for Beginners: This article is an introduction to writing blog posts.
12 Easy Ways to Improve Your Blog: This article examines important elements in developing your own blog.
Blogging Best Practices PDF: This bulleted list gives you a quick summary of the best practices top bloggers use.

Introduction to BUS 400 1-2 Blog

This How-To Guide revolves around your understanding of driving business opportunities. I will provide brief and descriptive guidelines for each section to solve the BUS 400 1-2 Blog: Project Analysis and a dummy solution. This Owlisdom How-To Guide will equip you with guidelines to tackle all the queries related to the BUS 400 1-2 Blog questions.

You can look up these websites to learn how to write a blog.

How to Write a Blog Post for Beginners: This article is an introduction to writing blog posts.

12 Easy Ways to Improve Your Blog: This article examines essential elements in developing your blog.

Let us begin with the guide.

Introduction

To start the BUS 400 1-2 Blog: Project Analysis, briefly introduce your roles as a CIO and discuss the importance of balancing current business and innovation. For this Blog, I am choosing Tesla, Inc.

Start with a brief introduction to the Chief Innovation Officer (CIO) role and briefly explain the importance of balancing current business execution with innovation.
Choose a U.S.-based company that is well-established.

Example

As the Chief Innovation Officer (CIO) at Tesla, Inc., my role centres on steering the company towards groundbreaking innovations while ensuring the stability of our current operations. This balance is vital for sustaining growth and staying ahead in the competitive automotive and clean energy sectors, where Tesla leads with its commitment to revolutionising transportation and energy solutions.

Value proposition: What is the company’s primary business? What value does the company deliver to the customer? Is the company currently profitable?

Analysing the Value Proposition and Evaluating Profitability

We will analyse Tesla, Inc.’s value proposition for this section of BUS 400 1-2 Blog: Project Analysis. Also, we will evaluate its profitability.

Describe the company’s main business and the value it currently offers to customers.
Relate this to how the new product or service will enhance or complement this value.

Assess whether the company is currently profitable.
Discuss how the new product or service could potentially impact profitability.

Example

Tesla, Inc.’s primary business revolves around designing, manufacturing, and selling electric vehicles (EVs), battery energy storage products, and solar energy solutions (Matthews et al., 2020). The company delivers significant value to customers by offering innovative, eco-friendly transportation and energy products, emphasising sustainability, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Tesla’s commitment to environmental sustainability, advanced autopilot features, and superior electric performance sets it apart in the automotive and energy sectors.

As of my last update in April 2023, Tesla was profitable, showcasing the success of its business model and the growing demand for clean energy solutions (Boesch, 2023). Introducing a new product or service, focusing on enhancing battery technology, or expanding into new segments of the clean energy market could further elevate Tesla’s value proposition. Such innovations could attract a broader customer base, increase market share, and significantly boost profitability by tapping into emerging trends and demands in the global push for sustainability.

What are the company’s main strengths that can be leveraged to create a new product or service?

Conducting a SWOT Analysis

For this section of BUS 400 1-2 Blog: Project Analysis, we will briefly conduct a SWOT analysis of Tesla, Inc. to determine the company’s key strengths in creating a new product.

Identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to the company, focusing on North America.
Use the SWOT analysis to argue how the new product or service leverages the company’s strengths.

Example

Tesla, Inc.’s main strengths lie in its brand reputation for innovation and sustainability, cutting-edge electric vehicle technology, and a strong network of Superchargers (Bredenfeld et al., 2020). These strengths position Tesla ideally to expand its product lineup or venture into new service areas. Leveraging its expertise in battery technology and software, Tesla could introduce an advanced home energy solution that integrates with its vehicles, enhancing the ecosystem of Tesla products. This new offering would capitalise on Tesla’s substantial brand equity and its leadership in energy innovation, providing a seamless, eco-friendly energy management system for homeowners. By tapping into its core strengths, Tesla can address the growing demand for sustainable living solutions, further solidifying its market position.

What is unique about the new product or service? How can a new product or service improve profitability? Note: This estimation is based on research on the company’s current market position.

Assessing Innovation Uniqueness & Impact

The next section of the BUS 400 1-2 Blog: Project Analysis revolves around the product or service singularity and projecting the new product or service impact.

Detail what makes the new product or service unique.
Explain why competitors cannot easily duplicate it.

Estimate the potential market impact of the new product or service.
Discuss possible improvements in profitability and market position.

Example

Tesla, Inc.’s new venture into autonomous, electric-powered public transportation systems represents a significant leap in urban mobility. This service’s uniqueness lies in integrating Tesla’s advanced autopilot technology with its sustainable energy solutions, offering a cleaner, safer, and more efficient public transport alternative. Competitors might find it challenging to duplicate this innovation due to Tesla’s proprietary technology, extensive R&D in electric vehicles (EVs), and a well-established charging infrastructure.

The potential market impact of this service is substantial, addressing urban congestion and pollution issues while meeting the increasing demand for sustainable transportation options. It opens up new revenue streams for Tesla beyond its current consumer base, including city contracts and partnerships with public transport entities. This expansion can significantly improve Tesla’s profitability and enhance its market position by solidifying its role as a leader in the EV market and the broader context of urban planning and sustainability solutions.

Conclusion

For the last section of BUS 400 1-2 Blog: Project Analysis, we will summarize all the key takeaways in a brief paragraph.

Summarize the findings and projections.
Reiterate the significance of the new product or service in keeping the company competitive.

Example

In summary, Tesla, Inc.’s exploration into autonomous, electric-powered public transportation systems capitalizes on its core strengths—innovative electric vehicle technology and a commitment to sustainability. This venture amplifies Tesla’s value proposition by addressing urban mobility and environmental challenges and positions the company at the forefront of the sustainable transport revolution. Introducing this unique service, leveraging Tesla’s advanced autopilot and energy solutions, promises significant market impact and profitability enhancement. It underscores Tesla’s ongoing commitment to innovation, keeping the company competitive in the evolving global transportation and energy solutions landscape.

Closing

By following these guidelines of BUS 400 1-2 Blog: Project Analysis, students can create a comprehensive and insightful analysis of their chosen company and its potential for innovation through a new product or service. In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 2-1 Assignment Project Outline.

References

Boesch, J. (2023). A Strategic Audit of Tesla Inc. Honors Theses. https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/honorstheses/612

Bredenfeld, L., Cherubim, M., Kellermann, A. C., Lehmann, C., Malberg, S., Rafn, J., Kwon, Y., & Choi, S. (2020). Tesla Moving Forward. 신산업경영저널, 38(1), 47–70.

Matthews, T., Hirve, M., Pan, Y., Dang, D., Rawar, E., & Daim, T. U. (2020). Tesla Energy. In T. U. Daim & D. Meissner (Eds.), Innovation Management in the Intelligent World: Cases and Tools (pp. 233–249). Springer International Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-58301-9_15

BUS 400 2-1 assignment project outline

Instructions for BUS 400 2-1 Assignment Project Outline

Overview

Leaders need input, especially from stakeholders, to move ideas along. Having a unique, insightful product or service is just one step. Project outlines that include careful consideration of a company’s mission, opportunities, and risks can help ideas gain momentum and snowball in significance.

Scenario

Now that you have written a blog post identifying critical elements needed to support the rationale of your project, outlining specifics is key! These specifics will be used in an upcoming elevator pitch you will submit to senior management in Milestone One. Before management approves exploring the idea for new opportunities and funding, they have key performance indicators (KPIs) that you will need to address. Your goal for this assignment is to provide an outline that strongly, yet carefully, presents an argument to move your concept forward.

Prompt

Using MarketLine, Yahoo Finance, and the company’s investor relations webpage, continue your investigation of the company you selected in your Module One blog post. Specifically, look at the company’s profile, financials, and SWOT analysis.

Using speculative strategies, articulate your thoughts. Remember, success may mean revenue to a for-profit business; however, to a non-profit, it may mean a specific outcome, such as donor retention rate, social media engagement, or email open rate.

Draft a project outline that presents a prospective timeline and targeted customer segment of your project. This project outline is a precursor to Milestone One: Elevator Pitch. The KPIs you need to consider and address in your outline are:

The intended customer: Describe the intended customer or customer profile for the new product or service.
Opportunities in the market: Explain the opportunities in the market based on your research.
The financial opportunity: Assess the financial opportunity that the project presents for increasing cash flow and topline revenue.
- Can it be cash flow positive and profitable? For example, Zappos donates a pair of shoes for every pair of shoes sold. This leads to profit in the long run due to good CSR and company image, but it is not immediately profitable.

Your contribution will be evaluated based on the quality of the input.

What to Submit

Use the Module Two Assignment Template Word Document to submit your project outline as a Word file. Sources should be cited according to APA style.

Introduction to BUS 400 2-1 Assignment

The BUS 400 2-1 Assignment Project Outline revolves around your understanding of the Project Outline for this course. I will provide brief and descriptive guidelines to solve the bus 400 Module Two assignment and a dummy solution for each section. This Owlisdom How-To Guide will equip you with guidelines to tackle all the queries related to the bus 400 2-1 assignment project outline. Let us begin with the guide. I will use the template SNHU provided for this assignment as an example.

Note: I chose Tesla, Inc. in the previous module. I will provide the guide and dummy solutions according to my chosen company.

Introduction

To begin with, the BUS 400 2-1 Assignment Project Outline, we will briefly introduce the project.

Briefly introduce the importance of project outlines in gaining momentum for ideas.
Emphasize the significance of considering a company’s mission, opportunities, and risks.
Start with a concise overview of the project’s purpose and potential impact.
Explain the importance of project outlines in gaining support and momentum for ideas.

Example

Tesla, Inc. is poised to expand its innovation prowess into the autonomous delivery vehicle market (Bredenfeld et al., 2020). Building on its extensive experience in electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technology, the new business idea involves creating a fleet of self-driving delivery vehicles. This service will leverage Tesla’s existing Autopilot technology, optimizing logistics for businesses and consumers by reducing delivery times and costs and contributing to environmental sustainability using electric power.

Describe the intended customer or customer profile for the new product or service.

Intended Customer

We will explain the intended customers for the first section of BUS 400 2-1 Assignment Project Outline.

Describe the target customer or customer profile for the new product or service.
Consider demographics, psychographics, and other relevant factors.

Example

The intended customer segment for Tesla’s Autonomous Delivery Vehicles includes e-commerce companies, retailers, and logistics companies looking to enhance their supply chain efficiency. These businesses constantly seek cost-effective, reliable, and swift delivery methods to meet consumer demand (Saxena & Vibhandik, 2021). Adopting autonomous delivery vehicles will cater to companies focused on innovation and sustainability, aiming to minimize their carbon footprint while maximizing operational efficiency.

Explain the opportunities in the market based on your research

Opportunities in the Market

The next section of the BUS 400 2-1 Assignment Project Outline will discuss the market opportunities.

Explain the market opportunities based on thorough research.
Identify gaps, trends, and potential competitive advantages.

Example

The market for autonomous delivery vehicles is rapidly expanding, driven by the growth in e-commerce and the increasing consumer preference for fast, reliable delivery services. As urbanization continues and technological advancements in autonomous driving and battery technology evolve, Tesla can capitalize on these trends to address the significant demand for innovative delivery solutions (Bredenfeld et al., 2020). Additionally, environmental regulations pushing for reduced emissions further align with Tesla’s electric vehicle technology, presenting a substantial opportunity for market leadership.

Assess the financial opportunity that the project presents for increasing cash flow and topline revenue. Can it be cash flow positive and profitable? For example, Zappos donates a pair of shoes for every pair of shoes sold. This leads to profit in the long run due to good CSR and company image, but it is not immediately profitable.

Financial Opportunity

We will discuss the financial opportunities for this last BUS 400 2-1 Assignment Project Outline section.

Assess the financial opportunity presented by the project.
Evaluate the potential for increasing cash flow and topline revenue.
Consider factors such as profitability and long-term sustainability, even if immediate profitability is impossible.

Example

The financial outcomes of introducing autonomous delivery vehicles are promising. By entering this market, Tesla can diversify its revenue streams beyond passenger EVs, tapping into the growing logistics and delivery industry. The project is expected to have positive cash flow within a few years of launch, following initial investment and setup costs (Boesch, 2023). Profitability will be driven by partnerships with significant e-commerce and logistics companies, alongside the reduction of operational expenses afforded by autonomous technology and electric propulsion.

Closing

By following these guidelines of BUS 400 2-1 Assignment Project Outline, you can create a compelling project outline that effectively communicates the value and potential of your idea to senior management. Remember to focus on clarity, coherence, and relevance to increase the chances of gaining approval and support for your project. In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 3-1 Discussion on Business Model Canvas.

References

Boesch, J. (2023). A Strategic Audit of Tesla Inc. Honors Theses. https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/honorstheses/612

Bredenfeld, L., Cherubim, M., Kellermann, A. C., Lehmann, C., Malberg, S., Rafn, J., Kwon, Y., & Choi, S. (2020). Tesla Moving Forward. 신산업경영저널, 38(1), 47–70.

Saxena, N., & Vibhandik, S. (2021, September 1). Tesla’s Competitive Strategies and Emerging Markets Challenges. | IUP Journal of Brand Management | EBSCOhost. https://openurl.ebsco.com/contentitem/gcd:153134462?sid=ebsco:plink:crawler&id=ebsco:gcd:153134462

BUS 400 3-1 Discussion: Business Model Canvas

Instructions for BUS 400 3-1 Discussion

6-1 Assignment: International Team Expectations

Overview

Managing an international team will present unexpected challenges.

You are in different time zones; you have different schedules; you come from different cultures; and your own communication style may be different from that of members of your team.

The success of a geographically distributed team can be fostered by setting expectations that are informed by best practices and the cultures of your team members.

Scenario

Your company is expanding into a new market and has formed a new team that it would like you to manage. Your manager has sent you this note:

Thank you for taking on this challenge. You have a great team, but they come from very diverse backgrounds. It’ll be up to you to make sure it is a cohesive team that communicates well and collaborates effectively. As you know, at our firm, we feel that the management of our teams and human resource management is a strategic advantage for us. I would like you to write an email explaining to me what managerial approaches you will use and how you think your team will function together. Please also include your conference call invitation for your team’s introduction. I would like to review what you are going to send to your team.

Prompt

For this assignment, you will write an email and an introductory conference call invitation as requested by your manager.

Team Member Locations

Your team consists of the following four members from various locations across the globe:

Kaspar was born in and is based in the country you choose for your course project.
Kelly was born in and is based in the United States.
Syed was born in and is based in the United Arab Emirates.
Nina was born in and is based there.

Specifically, you must address the following rubric criteria:

Write an email to your manager explaining how you plan to manage your team. It should include the following information:
- Cultural considerations for each team member (For this assignment, you can assume that each team member represents the average cultural dimensions of an average citizen of the country, and you are encouraged to use the Hofstede Insights: Compare Countries website.)
- Common issues among diverse or global teams and potential conflicts that could occur in your team
- Multiple management approaches you plan to use and why
- A policy for selecting which holidays team members can take off that takes into account cultural considerations
- A determination of whether your team will collaboratively create a team expectations and communication plan, or whether you, as the manager, will do it on your own, explaining your decision
Create a conference call invitation, including the time of the meeting and agenda, using this Conference Call Invitation Template.

Guidelines for Submission

Submit your email as a 200- to 350-word Microsoft Word document. Submit your conference call invitation by completing the Conference Call Invitation Template. Sources should be cited according to APA style.

Introduction to BUS 400 3-1 Discussion

This first discussion post revolves around your understanding of the Bus 400 business model canvas. I will provide brief and descriptive guidelines to solve the BUS 400 3-1 Discussion: Business Model Canvas post and a dummy solution for each section. This Owlisdom How-To Guide will equip you with guidelines to tackle all the queries related to the bus model canvas post. Let us begin with the guide.

Understanding the Business Model Canvas (BMC)

To start the BUS 400 3-1 Discussion: Business Model Canvas, we will familiarize ourselves with the nine segments of the BMC.

Recognize the importance of each segment in creating a comprehensive business model.
Study the purpose and significance of each segment of the BMC.
Understand how these segments interact to form a cohesive business model.

Example

Familiarizing ourselves with the nine segments of the BMC is crucial for crafting a robust business model. Each segment serves a distinct purpose, contributing to the overall framework of our venture (Setiawan et al., 2021). By studying the significance of each segment, we gain insight into how they interact and complement one another. Understanding these interactions helps us create a cohesive and well-rounded business model that addresses key aspects such as customer needs, value proposition, distribution channels, and revenue streams. This foundational knowledge lays the groundwork for developing a successful and sustainable business strategy.

Which of the segments do you think you can complete immediately?

Identifying Immediate Completable Segments

Next, in BUS 400 3-1 Discussion: Business Model Canvas. We will analyze the segments of the BMC to determine which ones you can complete immediately.

Consider factors such as existing data, knowledge, and resources.
Evaluate your current resources and information availability.
Identify segments where you have sufficient data or understanding to complete immediately.

Example

Analyzing the segments of the BMC enables us to pinpoint areas where immediate completion is feasible. By considering factors such as existing data, knowledge, and resources, we assess our readiness to address each segment (Lewinski et al., 2021). Evaluating our current resources and information availability helps identify segments where we possess sufficient data or understanding to proceed immediately. This strategic approach ensures efficient utilization of our resources and facilitates the swift development of our business model. By prioritizing segments that align with our strengths and capabilities, we can accelerate the creation of a comprehensive BMC that lays the groundwork for our venture’s success.

Which segments do you think might need more work?

Identifying Segments Needing More Work

For the next section of the BUS 400 3-1 Discussion: Business Model Canvas, we will assess the segments of the BMC that might require further analysis or research.

Consider factors such as complexity, data availability, and strategic importance.
Identify segments where additional research or analysis is necessary.
Prioritize these segments based on their impact on the overall business model.

Example

Specific segments of the BMC may require further attention due to complexity, data availability, and strategic importance. Identifying these segments is crucial for prioritizing additional research or analysis. By assessing their impact on the overall business model, we can allocate resources effectively to address areas needing more work. This focused approach ensures that our BMC is thorough and accurately reflects the intricacies of our venture.

Are there any factors or segments you have not considered so far? Which ones? Explain.

Exploring Unconsidered Factors or Segments

In this section of BUS 400 3-1 Discussion: Business Model Canvas, we will reflect on any factors or segments of the BMC that we had not previously considered.

Evaluate their relevance and potential impact on the business model.
Think critically about any overlooked factors or segments.
Consider how addressing these aspects can enhance the completeness and effectiveness of your business model.

Example

Upon reflection, we may discover overlooked factors or segments within the BMC, such as critical partnerships or cost structures. Evaluating their relevance and potential impact on the business model is essential. By addressing these aspects, we can enhance the completeness and effectiveness of our BMC. This critical thinking ensures that no vital components are omitted, leading to a more robust and comprehensive business model.

Please provide at least one specific idea or recommendation to help them address the problem areas in their model. Share any suggestions or tips that you found helpful when researching or working on your business idea.

Peer Responses

When responding to peers, offer specific ideas or recommendations to address any identified problem areas in their business models. Share any helpful suggestions or tips you discovered during your research or work on your business idea.

Offer insights on how to gather additional data or conduct further analysis to strengthen weaker segments.
Share resources or tools that could aid in refining the business model canvas.
Provide advice on seeking feedback from potential customers or industry experts to validate assumptions and improve the model.

Response 01

Consider gathering additional data through market research surveys or interviews to strengthen weaker segments. Use online resources like industry reports or business model canvas templates to refine your BMC. Seek feedback from potential customers or industry experts to validate assumptions and identify areas for improvement. This iterative process will enhance the robustness of your business model.

Response 02

I have addressed the given instructions in one response. Following these instructions, you can quickly write your peer responses to BUS 400 3-1 Discussion: Business Model Canvas without a hassle.

Closing

This How-To Guide allows you to understand the Business Model Canvas in detail. Following the guidelines, you can solve the BUS 400 3-1 Discussion: Business Model Canvas assignment like a pro. Good luck!

In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 3-2 MILESTONE ONE.

References

Lewinski, A. A., Crowley, M. J., Miller, C., Bosworth, H. B., Jackson, G. L., Steinhauser, K., White-Clark, C., McCant, F., & Zullig, L. L. (2021). Applied rapid qualitative analysis to develop a contextually appropriate intervention and increase the likelihood of uptake. Medical Care, p. 59, S242–S251.

Setiawan, J., Budiastuti, M. S., Gravitiani, E., & Setyono, P. (2021). Business model canvas (BMC) approach for tourism management strategy of the top selfie spot, Mt. Merbabu National Park. Geo Journal of Tourism and Geosites, 35(2), 297–303.

BUS 400 3-2 MILESTONE ONE

Instructions for BUS 400 3-2 Milestone One

Overview

It’s the moment of truth: the first step in introducing the new project to senior management. The senior management team is located in another state and wants to hear your pitch remotely. They have given you five minutes to deliver your pitch during a leadership meeting.

Prompt

Create and record an elevator pitch for your new product or service using your project outline as a guide. In your pitch, be sure to include the following:

Introduction: Introduce your product or service.
How it fits: Describe how the product or service fits into the overall strategic plan and mission of the company.
- Speculate about whether the product or service fits within the capabilities of the company based on your research from previous modules (use resources like Marketline.com, Yahoo Finance, and investor relations pages within the company’s website).
Justification: Justify your suggestion based on the numbers.
- What will be the revenue gain?
- Speculate on an ROI that justifies the project for investors and/or senior management.
Enhancing the mission: Explain how the new product or service enhances the company’s overall mission.
- Does it project profitability?
- Support your position with information and data from the company’s 10K (use resources like Marketline.com, Yahoo Finance, and investor relations pages within the company’s website).

What to Submit

To complete this project, you must submit the following:

A 3- to 5-minute elevator pitch video or audio recording (mp3) as well as an outline and references page in Word using double spacing, one-inch margins, and 12-point Times New Roman. Sources should be cited according to APA style.

A 1- to 3-page elevator pitch script in a Word document using double spacing, one-inch margins, and 12-point Times New Roman font. Sources should be cited according to APA style.

Introduction to BUS 400 Milestone One

The BUS 400 3-2 Milestone One revolves around your understanding of building an elevator pitch for senior management. I will provide brief and descriptive guidelines to solve the bus 400 milestone one and a dummy solution for each section. This Owlisdom How-To Guide will equip you with guidelines to tackle all the queries related to the bus 400 3-2 milestone one submission. Let us begin with the guide.

Introduce your product or service.

Introduction

To start BUS 400 3-2 Milestone One, we will craft a compelling introduction that grabs the attention of senior management.

Start with a hook to engage your audience.
Introduce your new product or service, emphasizing its unique value proposition.
Clearly state the name and purpose of your product or service concisely.

Example

Begin your introduction with a captivating hook that immediately grabs the attention of senior management. Introduce our innovative product, emphasizing its unique value proposition. Our product, InnovateTech, revolutionizes the transportation industry by offering an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution for urban commuters. Its cutting-edge electric propulsion system and advanced navigation features address the growing need for sustainable transportation options in congested city centers. Its purpose is to redefine urban mobility and reduce carbon emissions by providing a reliable and efficient alternative to traditional gas-powered vehicles. This introduction sets the stage for an engaging presentation highlighting our new product’s significance and potential.

Describe how the product or service fits into the company’s overall strategic plan and mission. Speculate about whether the product or service fits within the company’s capabilities based on your previous modules’ research (use resources like Marketline.com, Yahoo Finance, and investor relations pages within the company’s website).

How it Fits

The next section of BUS 400 3-2 Milestone One will describe how our product or service aligns with the company’s strategic plan and mission.

Speculate on whether it fits within the company’s capabilities based on prior research.
Highlight critical points from your project outline that demonstrate alignment with company goals.
Use data and insights from previous modules and resources like Yahoo Finance to support your claims.

Example

Based on prior research and analysis, our product aligns seamlessly with the company’s strategic plan and mission. Leveraging insights from Marketline.com and Yahoo Finance, we speculate that our product falls well within the company’s capabilities. Our project outline underscores this alignment by highlighting key points demonstrating how our product supports company goals. For instance, we contribute to the company’s commitment to sustainability by addressing market demand for eco-friendly transportation solutions. Data from Yahoo Finance further supports our speculation, indicating favorable market trends and financial stability that validate our product’s fit within the company’s strategic framework.

Justify your suggestion based on the numbers. What will be the revenue gain? Speculate on an ROI that justifies the project for investors and senior management.

Justification

For the next section of BUS 400 3-2 Milestone One, we will justify our suggestion with numerical evidence, focusing on potential revenue gain and ROI.

Speculate on the financial benefits that make the project worthwhile for investors and senior management.
Utilize financial data and projections to estimate revenue gain and ROI.
Support your justification with information from sources like the company’s 10K report on Yahoo Finance.

Example

Our suggestion is substantiated by compelling numerical evidence, focusing on potential revenue gain and ROI. By utilizing financial data and projections sourced from the company’s 10K report on Yahoo Finance, we estimate a significant revenue gain for the project. Additionally, our ROI speculation justifies the project for investors and senior management by demonstrating the potential for substantial returns on investment. This data-driven approach assures stakeholders of the project’s financial viability and underscores its value as a strategic investment opportunity within the company’s portfolio.

Explain how the new product or service enhances the company’s overall mission. Does it project profitability? Support your position with information and data from the company’s 10K (use resources like Marketline.com, Yahoo Finance, and investor relations pages within the company’s website).

Enhancing the Mission

The next section of BUS 400 3-2 Milestone One explains how our new product or service enhances the company’s overall mission.

Discuss projected profitability and support your position with relevant data.
Articulate how your product or service aligns with the company’s core values and objectives.
Use data from the company’s financial reports and other reputable sources to bolster your argument.

Example

Our new product significantly enhances the company’s mission by aligning with its core values and objectives. Through a careful analysis of financial reports sourced from Yahoo Finance and other reputable sources, we project profitability for the product. By providing data-driven evidence of its potential economic impact, we strengthen our argument for its alignment with the company’s mission. Additionally, our product’s focus on sustainability and innovation resonates with the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and customer satisfaction, further reinforcing its contribution to advancing its overarching goals.

Closing

Crafting a compelling elevator pitch requires careful planning and attention to detail. In BUS 400 3-2 Milestone One, following these guidelines and incorporating insights from your project outline and research, you can effectively communicate the value and potential of your new product or service to senior management, setting the stage for their support and investment. In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 4-1 Assignment Business Model Canvas.

BUS 400 4-1 assignment: business model canvas

Instructions for BUS 400 4-1 assignment

Overview

The elevator pitch was a success! Senior management believes they made the right choice in giving you the title of CIO and putting you in charge of seizing new opportunities in the marketplace.

Scenario

While the pitch conveyed your good idea, it was just that: an idea. You now have to test the feasibility of your idea. However, before you create a complete business model canvas (BMC), you want to quickly identify key elements needed to take your product or service idea to market.

In doing so, you will assume that all components of the BMC are at the fingertips of your project team. For example, you will have to work with the marketing and sales departments, and perhaps outside vendors and suppliers, to promote, advertise, and sell the product or service.

The Business Model Canvas Template you complete in this assignment will serve as the groundwork for the more detailed PowerPoint slide deck you will create in Milestone Two. As with any well-executed project, a former project manager experienced in such product-to-market initiatives has agreed to assess your complete BMC slide deck, which you will submit in Module Five.

Prompt

For this assignment, consider the company you have selected and the work you have completed so far to further your business idea. Then, complete the Business Model Canvas Template linked in the Guidelines for Submission section with your assumptions about the key activities for your business idea, product, or service. Specifically, you must address the following rubric criteria:

Value proposition: Complete the value proposition building block by describing the value of your business idea, such as the customer need you are satisfying or the problem you are solving.
Front-stage considerations: Outline the segments related to your potential customers, which include the Customer Segments, Channels, and Customer Relationship building blocks.
Back-stage considerations: Make initial assumptions about how your business will work. This includes completing the Key Activities, Key Resources, and Key Partnerships building blocks.
Financial considerations: Make reasonable assumptions about the segments that will inform your profit projections. These include the Cost Structure and Revenue Stream building blocks.

What to Submit

Complete and submit the Business Model Canvas Template PPT. Any sources cited should use APA formatting.

Introduction to 4-1 assignment: business model canvas

This Owlisdom How-To Guide is designed to assist you in crafting a Business Model Canvas (BMC) for the company you have chosen, focusing on translating a promising business idea into a viable market opportunity. It outlines a structured approach to detailing each component of the BMC, which will underpin a more comprehensive presentation later in the course. By the end of the bus 400 module 4 business model canvas, you will have developed a clear, concise plan that articulates the potential of your business idea.

You will be provided with a Business Model Template to solve the BUS 400 4-1 assignment. I am using the SNHU template as an example for a dummy solution.

Note: As mentioned in previous modules, I have chosen Tesla, Inc. for this course project.

Value proposition: Complete the Value Proposition building block by describing the value of your business idea, such as the customer need you are satisfying or the problem you are solving.

Value Proposition

To start the BUS 400 4-1 assignment: business model canvas, we will identify and articulate the unique value our business idea offers to customers.

Define the Customer Problem: Specify the particular issue or need that your company is addressing.
Describe the Solution: Explain how your product or service solves this problem or meets this need.
Highlight Unique Features: Discuss what makes your solution stand out from existing alternatives.

Front-stage considerations: Outline the segments related to your potential customers, which include the Customer Segments, Channels, and Customer Relationship building blocks

Front-Stage Considerations

Next, in BUS 400 4-1 assignment: business model canvas. We will outline how our chosen company will interact with its customers through various channels.

Customer Segments: Identify the specific groups of people or organisations your company aims to serve.
Channels: Describe the methods your company will use to reach its customer segments and deliver its value proposition.
Customer Relationships: Define the type of relationships your company intends to establish with each customer segment (e.g., personal, automated, self-service).

Back-stage considerations: Make initial assumptions about how your business will work. This includes completing the Key Activities, Key Resources, and Key Partnerships building blocks.

Back-stage Considerations

In this section of the BUS 400 4-1 assignment: business model canvas, we will define the internal operations and partnerships that support the delivery of the value proposition.

Key Activities: List the essential activities that need to be performed to execute your company’s business model effectively.
Key Resources: Identify the resources that are crucial to your company’s operations, including physical, intellectual, human, and financial resources.
Key Partnerships: Specify external organisations or stakeholders that your company will collaborate with (e.g., suppliers, collaborators).

Financial considerations: Make reasonable assumptions about the segments that will inform your profit projections. These include the Cost Structure and Revenue Streams building blocks.

Financial Considerations

In this segment of BUS 400 4-1 assignment: business model canvas, we will establish the financial basis that will support our company’s business operations and revenue generation.

Cost Structure: Detail the significant costs involved in operating the business.
Revenue Streams: Describe the sources of revenue for your company, focusing on how the company will charge for its products or services.

Closing

In completing the Business Model Canvas for your chosen company, you will have laid a foundational strategy for bringing a business idea to fruition. The BUS 400 4-1 assignment: business model canvas encourages a thorough analysis of various business elements—from customer interaction to financial sustainability. The critical takeaway is to develop a holistic view of the business operation, ensuring every component aligns with the overarching value proposition and market goals. In the BUS 400 Module Four Assignment, the critical takeaway is to develop a holistic view of the business operation, ensuring every component aligns with the overarching value proposition and market goals. This How-To Guide serves as a roadmap for effectively communicating and refining these ideas in your upcoming presentations. In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 4-2 Harvard Business Review Simulation and Journal.

BUS 400 4-2 Harvard Business Review Simulation and Journal

Instructions for BUS 400 4-2 Harvard Business Review Simulation

Overview

As the business in the simulation goes through various generations, it is faced with various external and internal factors that affect its business model in different ways. You may have also made decisions that affected the company’s business strategy, including its value proposition, customer segments, revenue models, and other factors. In this journal, you will reflect on these factors and decisions and discuss how the business model changed across generations, and then determine the feasibility of these changes by running them through the BMC framework.

Prompt

In your journal, reflect on the different BMC segments, such as value propositions, channels, customer relationships, customer segments, revenue streams, key resources, activities, partnerships, and cost structure, and how they affected the decisions made in the simulation and consequently the company’s growth and direction.

In this journal, select two BMC segments to use in answering the following questions:

BMC segment changes: How have the selected BMC segments changed over the various generations?
The effect of decisions: How have your decisions affected the BMC segments?
Explore your decisions: How did you come to your decisions?
Assess your decisions: Do you believe you made the right decisions in the simulation? Why or why not?

What to Submit

Submit your journal as a 1- to 2-page Word document using 12-point Times New Roman, one-inch margins, and double spacing. Sources should be cited according to APA style.

Introduction to BUS 400 4-2 Journal

I will provide brief and descriptive guidelines to solve the BUS 400 4-2 Harvard Business Review Simulation and Journal post, and a dummy solution for each section. This Owlisdom How-To Guide will equip you with guidelines to tackle all the queries related to the 1-1 Harvard Business Simulation. Let us begin with the guide.

Introduction

For the BUS 400 4-2 Harvard Business Review Simulation and Journal, we will discuss the reflective journal’s purpose in analyzing the business model changes across different generations in the simulation.

Recognise the importance of reflecting on the impact of decisions on various segments of the Business Model Canvas (BMC).
Clarify the objectives of the reflective journal assignment.
Highlight the significance of analysing the evolution of the business model and the influence of decisions on BMC segments.

Example

In our reflective journal, we aim to understand how decisions shape the evolution of the business model across different generations in the simulation. By analysing the impact of decisions on various segments of the Business Model Canvas (BMC), we gain insights into strategic decision-making and its influence on business direction (Gomez Segura et al., 2020). This assignment allows us to clarify objectives, emphasising the importance of critical reflection and analysis. Ultimately, we aim to highlight the significance of evaluating the business model’s evolution and the role of decisions in shaping its trajectory, fostering a deeper understanding of business strategy and management principles.

How have the selected BMC segments changed over the various generations?

Reflecting on BMC Segments

In this section of BUS 400 4-2 Harvard Business Review Simulation and Journal, we will familiarise ourselves with the nine segments of the BMC, including value propositions, customer segments, revenue streams, etc.

Consider how each BMC segment may have been affected by external and internal factors and decisions made during the simulation.
Review the characteristics and significance of each BMC segment.
Analyse the impact of external and internal factors on each segment across different generations in the simulation.

Example

To analyse changes in the selected BMC segments over different generations, we must first familiarise ourselves with each segment’s characteristics and significance. By considering external and internal factors, as well as decisions made during the simulation, we can understand how these factors influence the evolution of each BMC segment. This analysis allows us to identify trends and patterns in how value propositions, customer segments, revenue streams, and other segments have been affected across various generations. Through careful examination, we gain valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the business model and the factors driving its evolution.

How have your decisions affected the BMC segments?

Selecting BMC Segments

For this section of BUS 400 4-2 Harvard Business Review Simulation and Journal, we will choose two BMC segments to focus on when answering the reflective journal questions.

Consider selecting BMC segments that were particularly influential or underwent significant changes throughout the simulation.
Evaluate which BMC segments are most relevant to the decisions and changes observed in the simulation.
Ensure that the selected BMC segments provide sufficient depth for analysis and reflection.

Example

In addressing how decisions have affected the BMC segments, we must carefully select two segments that have undergone significant changes or have been particularly influential throughout the simulation. By evaluating the relevance of each segment to the decisions and changes observed, we can ensure a focused and insightful analysis (Di Vaio et al., 2022). It is crucial to choose BMC segments that offer sufficient depth for thorough reflection and analysis, allowing us to gain deeper insights into the impact of our decisions on the business model’s evolution. This strategic approach enhances the depth and relevance of our reflective journal responses.

Do you believe you made the right decisions in the simulation? Why or why not?

Answering Reflective Journal Questions

This section of BUS 400 4-2 Harvard Business Review Simulation and Journal addresses the reflective journal questions regarding changes in the selected BMC segments, the effect of decisions, the decision-making process, and the assessment of decisions.

Provide thoughtful insights and analysis supported by evidence from the simulation.
Clearly outline how the selected BMC segments changed over different generations in the simulation.
Discuss the impact of decisions on these BMC segments, providing specific examples and evidence.
Reflect on the decision-making process, considering factors such as research, analysis, and strategic objectives.
Assess the effectiveness of decisions made during the simulation, providing reasons and justifications for your evaluation.

Example

Reflecting on the simulation, I believe I made several decisions that positively influenced the selected BMC segments (Arif et al., 2020). For instance, I identified emerging market trends in the customer segments and adjusted our target audience accordingly, resulting in increased customer engagement and satisfaction. Additionally, I implemented innovative pricing strategies in the revenue streams segment that boosted profitability and diversified our income sources. However, some decisions faced challenges, such as partnerships and cost structures, which required further refinement to optimise effectiveness (Cuypers et al., 2021). My decision-making process involved thorough research, analysis of market dynamics, and alignment with strategic objectives. While some decisions yielded favourable outcomes, others presented learning opportunities for future iterations. Through this reflective process, I have gained valuable insights into the complexities of business strategy and the importance of adaptive decision-making.

Closing

By following these guidelines of BUS 400 4-2 Harvard Business Review Simulation and Journal, you can effectively analyse and reflect on the changes in the business model across generations in the simulation, as well as the impact of decisions on various BMC segments. This reflective process enhances understanding and critical thinking skills, contributing to a deeper comprehension of business strategy and decision-making.

In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 5-1 Discussion on DEI and CSR initiatives.

References

Arif, M., Schoots, I. G., Castillo Tovar, J., Bangma, C. H., Krestin, G. P., Roobol, M. J., Niessen, W., & Veenland, J. F. (2020). Clinically significant prostate cancer detection and segmentation in low-risk patients using a convolutional neural network on multi-parametric MRI. European Radiology, 30, 6582–6592.

Cuypers, I. R., Hennart, J.-F., Silverman, B. S., & Ertug, G. (2021). Transaction cost theory: Past progress, current challenges, and suggestions for the future. Academy of Management Annals, 15(1), 111–150.

Di Vaio, A., Hassan, R., & Alavoine, C. (2022). Data intelligence and analytics: A bibliometric analysis of human–artificial intelligence in public sector decision-making effectiveness. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 174, 121201.

Gomez Segura, M., Oleghe, O., & Salonitis, K. (2020). Analysis of lean manufacturing strategy using system dynamics modelling of a business model. International Journal of Lean Six Sigma, 11(5), 849–877.

BUS 400 5-1 DISCUSSION: DEI and CSR initiatives

Instructions of BUS 400 5-1 DISCUSSION

Overview

During your discussions with the experienced project manager, they stressed that beyond profitability, other key elements your project should focus on are diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), while simultaneously demonstrating corporate social responsibility (CSR). In the marketplace, companies that have diverse project teams get varied perspectives that help the overall project. Just as important, companies that “give back” to the communities they serve do better and are supported by millennial buyers—a big target segment for many companies.

For your initial post, research your selected company’s position on DEI initiatives and the CSR programs they currently support via the company’s website. Then, address the following questions about your proposed product or service:

What is the company’s position on DEI? Do they have a clear policy or initiative around it?
What actions could you take to ensure a diverse, inclusive, and equitable project team is assembled?
What is the company’s commitment to CSR, and how does it affect its profitability or image in the market?
How does your product or service align with the company’s CSR program, and how can you leverage this position as a competitive tool?

In your responses to your peers, address the following questions:

How does this company compare to your selected company concerning DEI and CSR?
What suggestions do you have to improve your classmate’s plan for their project team?

To complete this assignment, review the Discussion Rubric.

Introduction to BUS 400 5-1 Discussion

The BUS 400 5-1 discussion post revolves around your understanding of DEI and CSR Initiatives. I will provide brief and descriptive guidelines to solve the 5-1 Discussion post and a dummy solution for each section. This Owlisdom How-To Guide will equip you with guidelines to tackle all the queries related to the BUS 400 5-1 DISCUSSION: DEI and CSR initiatives. Let us begin with the guide.

Understanding DEI and CSR in Business

To start the BUS 400 5-1 DISCUSSION: DEI and CSR initiatives, we will discuss recognising the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in business.

Understand how DEI and CSR initiatives contribute to organisational success and market perception.
Research to comprehend the significance of DEI and CSR in contemporary business practices.
Explore how DEI and CSR initiatives can enhance company profitability and reputation.

Example

Understanding the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) is essential in contemporary business (El-Amin, 2022). These initiatives not only contribute to organisational success but also shape market perception. Through research, we can grasp the significance of DEI and CSR in fostering a positive workplace culture, improving stakeholder relationships, and ultimately enhancing company profitability and reputation. By exploring these principles, we gain insights into their transformative impact on business practices and outcomes.

What is the company’s position on DEI? Do they have a clear policy or initiative around it?

Researching the Company’s Position

Next, in BUS 400 5-1 DISCUSSION: DEI and CSR initiatives. We will investigate the company’s stance on DEI through its website and official statements.

Analyse the company’s current CSR programs and initiatives to understand its commitment to social responsibility.

Utilise the company’s website to gather information on its DEI policies and initiatives.
Identify specific CSR programs supported by the company and evaluate their impact on profitability and market image.

Example

In examining Tesla’s website and official statements, it is apparent that the company places a significant emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) (Tsai, 2021). While Tesla may not have a clear policy explicitly outlined, its commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture and promoting diversity is evident through various initiatives. The company actively seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce, reflecting its dedication to DEI principles. Furthermore, Tesla’s robust corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, particularly in environmental sustainability, underscore its commitment to social responsibility, positively impacting its market image and bolstering its profitability in the long term (Collins, 2022).

What actions could you take to ensure a diverse, inclusive, and equitable project team is assembled? What is the company’s commitment to CSR, and how does it affect its profitability or image in the market? How does your product or service align with the company’s CSR program, and how can you leverage this position as a competitive tool?

Addressing Questions About Your Project

For this section of BUS 400 5-1 DISCUSSION: DEI and CSR initiatives, we will determine the company’s position on DEI and CSR and how it aligns with our proposed product or service.

Develop strategies to assemble a diverse, inclusive, and equitable project team.
Identify ways your product or service aligns with the company’s CSR program and leverage this alignment as a competitive advantage.
Provide evidence-based responses to each question, supported by the company website information.
Demonstrate an understanding of DEI and CSR principles and their relevance to your proposed project.
Propose actionable steps to integrate DEI and CSR considerations into your project plan effectively.

Example

To ensure a diverse, inclusive, and equitable project team at Tesla, I would implement proactive recruitment strategies, including targeted outreach to underrepresented groups, implementing blind hiring practices, and providing diversity training to team members. Additionally, I advocate for inclusive policies and practices within the project team to create a supportive environment for all members.

Tesla’s strong commitment to CSR, particularly in environmental sustainability, positively influences its profitability and market image (Collins, 2022). By aligning our product or service with Tesla’s CSR initiatives, such as clean energy solutions, we can leverage this alignment to enhance our product’s market appeal and competitive advantage. This strategic alignment with Tesla’s CSR program reinforces our commitment to sustainability and positions us as a valuable partner in advancing environmental responsibility.

How does this company compare to your selected company in terms of DEI and CSR? What suggestions do you have to improve your classmate’s plan for their project team?

Peer Responses

For the peer responses BUS 400 5-1 DISCUSSION: DEI and CSR initiatives, we will compare the DEI and CSR practices of our selected company with those of your peers’ chosen companies while replying to peers.

Offer constructive suggestions to improve your peers’ plans for assembling their project teams.
Conduct a comparative analysis of DEI and CSR practices between the two companies.
Provide recommendations for enhancing your peers’ approaches to building diverse, inclusive project teams.

Response 01

Compared to Tesla, which demonstrates a robust commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and corporate social responsibility (CSR), your selected company may enhance its DEI initiatives by implementing targeted recruitment strategies and fostering a more inclusive workplace culture. To improve your project team’s diversity and inclusivity, consider implementing blind hiring practices, providing diversity training, and establishing clear policies to promote equity within the team. These measures can contribute to a more diverse and influential project team.

Response 02

I have addressed the given instructions in one response. Following these instructions, you can quickly write your peer responses to BUS 400 5-1 DISCUSSION: DEI and CSR initiatives without a hassle.

Closing

By following the How-To Guide BUS 400 5-1 DISCUSSION: DEI and CSR initiatives, you can effectively integrate DEI and CSR considerations into your project plans and engage in meaningful discussions with peers about these critical business principles.

In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 5-2 Milestone Two: Guidelines and Rubric.

References

Collins, K. (2022). Corporate Social Responsibility: Doing Well and Doing Good. In Business, Society and Global Governance (pp. 194–218). Routledge.

El-Amin, A. (2022). Improving Organizational Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. In Social Justice Research Methods for Doctoral Research (pp. 208–221). IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-7998-8479-8.ch010

Tsai, H.-Y. (2021). The impact of artificial intelligence on sustainable corporate brand: A ethnographic study of Tesla. H.-Y. Tsai

BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two

Instructions for BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two

6-1 Assignment: International Team Expectations

Overview

Managing an international team will present unexpected challenges.

You are in different time zones; you have different schedules; you come from different cultures; and your own communication style may be different from that of members of your team.

The success of a geographically distributed team can be fostered by setting expectations that are informed by best practices and the cultures of your team members.

Scenario

Your company is expanding into a new market and has formed a new team that it would like you to manage. Your manager has sent.

Overview

You are excited to see the possibilities after finishing the business model canvas template. The next step is the development of the BMC slide deck for review by the experienced former project manager mentioned in the Module Four assignment.

Scenario

In the BMC slide deck, you will make educated assumptions (based on research in Marketline, Yahoo Finance, or the company’s website) about your selected company’s resources, partnerships, cost structures (what needs to be paid for), how the product or service will be marketed, value delivery (product sold online, in-store, or both), and the unique value proposition for a specific targeted market segment.

All 9 segments of your redeveloped BMC must encompass elements to achieve new product/service feasibility.

Beyond profitability, other key elements that the experienced project manager stressed were diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as corporate social responsibility (CSR). In the marketplace, companies that have diverse project teams get varied perspectives that help the overall project. Just as important, companies that “give back” to the communities they serve do better and are supported by millennial buyers—a big target segment for many companies.

Financials, DEI, and CSR must be addressed in the funding pitch, which you will complete as your course project, due in Module Seven.

Prompt

You will create a slide deck that will help you expand on your BMC chart in detail as you refine how your selected company will create value for itself while delivering a new product or service for customers. Complete the Milestone Two Template linked in the Guidelines for Submission section for this assignment.

Specifically, you must address the following rubric criteria:

Deliver a unique value proposition.
1. Leveraging the blue ocean strategy, what makes the product or service unique?
2. How does it provide a strategic advantage in the marketplace?
Answer key business model questions about the customer.
1. Customer acquisitions
2. Revenue models
3. Price points for the product/service
4. Key activities for the value proposition (product or service)
Answer key business model questions about assets, partners, and cost.
1. Assets available
2. Key partners
3. Cost structures
Import your existing business model canvas chart from Module Four.
Clarify your business model assumptions.
1. Check your assumptions
2. Complete the assumptions chart
Prepare to meet customers.
1. Highlight the materials needed.
Update your documentation.
1. Targeted segment
2. Type of value delivered
3. How the product is unique
Update your business model.
1. Complete any updates to the BMC chart

What to Submit

Submit the completed Milestone Two Template PPT. Sources should be cited according to APA style.

Supporting Materials

The following resources support your work on this Milestone:

Reading: 6 Revenue Models Every Entrepreneur Should Know
This resource provides an overview of revenue models and can be used to help you choose a model for your product/service.

Reading: Bottom-up Sales Forecasting for Pre-revenue Startups
This resource dives into the overarching concepts around forecasting sales, cash flow, selling costs, and expected average selling price per sale.

You received this note:

Prompt

For this assignment, you will write an email and an introductory conference call invitation as requested by your manager.

Team Member Locations

Your team consists of the following four members from various locations across the globe:

Kaspar was born in and is based in the country you choose for your course project.
Kelly was born in and is based in the United States.
Syed was born in and is based in the United Arab Emirates.
Nina was born in and is based there.

Specifically, you must address the following rubric criteria:

Write an email to your manager explaining how you plan to manage your team. It should include the following information:
- Cultural considerations for each team member (For this assignment, you can assume that each team member represents the average cultural dimensions of an average citizen of the country, and you are encouraged to use the Hofstede Insights: Compare Countries website.)
- Common issues among diverse or global teams and potential conflicts that could occur in your team
- Multiple management approaches you plan to use and why
- A policy for selecting which holidays team members can take off that takes into account cultural considerations
- A determination of whether your team will collaboratively create a team expectations and communication plan, or whether you, as the manager, will do it on your own, explaining your decision
Create a conference call invitation, including the time of the meeting and agenda, using this Conference Call Invitation Template.

Guidelines for Submission

Introduction to BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two

In this Owlisdom How-To Guide, you will learn how to develop a detailed Business Model Canvas (BMC) slide deck for your chosen company. The BUS 400 milestone two submission will help you articulate how your company creates value while introducing a new product or service. By addressing key areas such as financials, diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and corporate social responsibility (CSR), you will craft a presentation that not only showcases profitability but also reflects modern business values.

Note: I will be using the solution template by SNHU for BUS 400 Milestone Two. Also, as mentioned in previous modules, I have chosen Tesla, Inc. for this course.

Deliver a unique value proposition.

Leveraging the blue ocean strategy, what makes the product or service unique?
How does it provide a strategic advantage in the marketplace?

Delivering a Unique Value Proposition

To start the BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two, we will discuss how to deliver a unique value proposition.

Research and apply the Blue Ocean strategy to determine what makes your product or service unique.
Outline the strategic advantages this uniqueness provides in the marketplace.

Answer key business model questions about the customer. 1. Customer acquisitions 2. Revenue models 3. Price points for the product/service 4. Key activities for the value proposition (product or service)

Key Business Model Questions about the Customer

The next step of the BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two is to discuss the critical business model questions about the customers.

Discuss strategies for customer acquisition and retention.
Define your revenue models and describe how these will support your business.
Set price points for your product or service based on market research and competitor analysis.
List critical activities essential to delivering your value proposition.

Answer key business model questions about assets, partners, and cost. 1. Assets available 2.Key partners 3.Cost structures

Key Business Model Questions about Assets, Partners, and Cost

For this section of BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two, we will discuss the critical business questions related to assets, partnerships, and costs of our chosen company.

Identify and list the assets available that are critical to your business model.
Describe key partnerships and the roles these partners will play.
Outline your cost structure, detailing significant costs involved in the business operation.

Clarify your business model assumptions. 1. Check your assumptions 2. Complete the assumptions chart.

Clarifying Business Model Assumptions

Next, in BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two. We will discuss the assumptions about the company and clarify them.

Review and verify your assumptions against market data and business realities.
Fill out an assumptions chart to visualise where your projections and the current market align.

Prepare to meet customers.

a. Highlight the materials needed

Preparing to Meet Customers

In this section of BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two, we will discuss the sources necessary for effective customer engagement.

Enumerate materials and resources needed for effective customer engagement and presentations.

Update your documentation.

a. Targeted segment

b. Type of value delivered.

c. How the product is unique

Updating Documentation

Now, according to the changes and research done in the above sections of BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two, we will update our previously discussed information.

Specify your targeted customer segment and the type of value delivered.
Describe how your product or service differentiates from competitors.

Update your business model.

a) Complete any updates to the BMC chart.

Updating the Business Model

For the last section of BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two, we will update the business model of our chosen company.

Make necessary updates to the BMC chart to reflect any new insights or changes in strategy.

Closing

By following this How-To Guide of BUS 400 5-2 Milestone Two, you will create a comprehensive BMC slide deck that not only outlines how your company will generate value but also demonstrates a commitment to DEI and CSR. The BUS 400 Milestone Two will help you articulate your business model’s effectiveness and sustainability, readying you for success in both academic and professional contexts.

In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 6-2 Discussion: CSR and DEI in Your Project Team.

References

Bredenfeld, L., Cherubim, M., Kellermann, A. C., Lehmann, C., Malberg, S., Rafn, J., Kwon, Y., & Choi, S. (2020). Tesla Moving Forward. 신산업경영저널, 38(1), 47–70.

Daylan, A. (2023). Examining the Disruptive Innovation Theory by Analysing Tesla, Inc.

Kristensen, L., & Kristensen, E. (2022). Price Vs. Value, Tesla-a Trillion-Dollar Company.

Lancaster University. (2016). Blue Ocean strategy. Teslaensi313. https://mixcsy.wixsite.com/teslaensi313/blue-ocean-strategy

Qiao, X. (2023). Battery Technology-Based Strategic Decisions of Electric Vehicle: The Case of Tesla. Highlights in Business, Economics and Management, 21, 225–230.

Schüler, A. (2020). Daimler and its stake in Tesla. Journal of Financial Education, 46(2), 354–369.

Watson, R. T., & Pitt, L. F. (2022). Transcendent service management. Journal of Service Management, 33(1), 1–8.

WU, Z.-Q., NGUYEN, P.-Q., PHANKASEMSAN, I., & WOLF, E. (2020). Driving Sustainability and Electric Vehicles Evolution: Tesla Company’s Success Strategies.

.BUS 400 6-2 Discussion: CSR and DEI in Your Project Team

Instructions for BUS 400 6-2 Discussion

Overview

Carl Kaysen, an American academic known for coining the phrase “the soulful corporation” to define new, more responsible large companies, believed that said companies’ goal was no longer ROI. He proposed that these modern companies identify and target the much larger goal of being responsible not only to stockholders but to all. In today’s world, companies like UPS have mapped deliveries to make as many right turns as possible in order to save time, protect employees, save fuel, and reduce emissions. The NFL, Salesforce, and Walgreens have stepped up their DEI strategies to avoid bias in hiring and promotion of underrepresented groups.

With this in mind, for your initial post, describe the makeup of your project team. Then, address the following questions about your proposed strategy:

What steps are you going to take to promote CSR initiatives? For example, what community programs, nonprofits, or environmental projects will the new product or service support?
How do you plan to attract, develop, engage, and reward your project team?

In your responses to your peers, address the following questions:

What suggestions do you have for improving your classmate’s plan to demonstrate consideration of DEI and CSR?

Introduction to BUS 400 6-2 Discussion

The BUS 400 6-2 Discussion: CSR and DEI in Your Project Team revolves around your understanding of DEI and CSR in your project team. I will provide brief and descriptive guidelines to solve the 6-2 Discussion posts and a dummy solution for each section. This Owlisdom How-To Guide will equip you with guidelines to tackle all the queries related to the BUS 400 6-2 Discussion: CSR and DEI in Your Project Team post. Let us begin with the guide.

What steps are you going to take to promote CSR initiatives? For example, what community programs, nonprofits, or environmental projects will the new product or service support?

Address CSR initiatives

To start the BUS 400 6-2 Discussion: CSR and DEI in Your Project Team, we will briefly discuss how to address CSR in the project team.

Provide a brief overview of the individuals who make up your project team, highlighting their roles, expertise, and contributions.

Identify specific CSR initiatives your project will support, such as community programs, nonprofit partnerships, or environmental projects.
Explain how these initiatives align with the company’s values and contribute to social responsibility.

Example

To promote CSR initiatives within our project team, we’ll start by outlining each team member’s diverse roles and expertise, ensuring a well-rounded approach to addressing social responsibility (Collins, 2022). Our project will actively support community programs aimed at education and empowerment, forge partnerships with local nonprofits to address social issues, and participate in environmental projects focused on sustainability. These initiatives resonate with our company’s values of social responsibility and contribute positively to the communities we serve. By aligning our project’s efforts with these CSR initiatives, we aim to make a meaningful impact and uphold our commitment to ethical business practices.

How will you attract, develop, engage, and reward your project team?

Attract, develop, engage, and reward your project team.

Next, this section of BUS 400 6-2 Discussion: CSR and DEI in Your Project Team revolves around attracting, developing, and rewarding the project team.

Outline strategies to attract top talent to your project team, including effective recruitment methods and incentives.
Describe plans for developing team members’ skills and capabilities through training and mentorship programs.
Discuss methods for keeping team members engaged and motivated throughout the project, such as regular feedback sessions and recognition programs.
Detail how you intend to reward team members for their contributions, whether through monetary incentives, career advancement opportunities, or other forms of recognition.

Example

We will employ a multifaceted approach to attract, develop, engage, and reward our project team effectively. Firstly, we will leverage targeted recruitment strategies to attract top talent, offering competitive compensation packages and opportunities for career advancement. Once onboard, we will invest in comprehensive training and mentorship programs to develop our team members’ skills and capabilities, ensuring they are equipped to excel in their roles (Hansen, 2023). To foster ongoing engagement, we will establish regular feedback mechanisms and recognition programs to acknowledge and celebrate achievements. Additionally, we will offer various rewards, including monetary incentives, bonuses, and opportunities for professional growth, to incentivise high performance and maintain motivation throughout the project duration. This holistic approach creates a supportive and rewarding environment that inspires our team members to deliver exceptional results.

What suggestions do you have for improving your classmate’s plan to demonstrate consideration of DEI and CSR?

Peer Responses

Responding to peers is one of the vital parts of the BUS 400 6-2 Discussion: CSR and DEI in Your Project Team posts. We need to provide at least two peer responses. I will provide one example post. You can write your peer responses by keeping the following points in mind.

Offer constructive feedback on how your peers can enhance their consideration of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in their project plans.
Recommend specific actions or initiatives they can implement to promote DEI within their project teams and support CSR goals effectively.

Response 01

To enhance consideration of DEI and CSR in your project plan, consider implementing proactive measures to promote diversity and inclusion within your project team. You could establish structured recruitment processes that prioritise diversity, implement unconscious bias training for team members, and create inclusive workplace policies and practices. Additionally, explore opportunities to integrate CSR initiatives that align with your project’s objectives, such as partnering with community organisations or implementing environmentally sustainable practices. These actions can strengthen your project’s social impact and contribute to a more inclusive and responsible business approach.

Closing

The How-To Guide BUS 400 6-2 Discussion: CSR and DEI in Your Project Team should help you effectively address the original instructions while demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of DEI and CSR principles in your project plans.
In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 6-3 Assignment: 24-month Pro Forma.

References

Collins, K. (2022). Corporate Social Responsibility: Doing Well and Doing Good. In Business, Society and Global Governance (pp. 194–218). Routledge.

Hansen, B. (2023). Strengthening Paraprofessional Effectiveness Through Mentoring.

BUS 400 6-3 assignment: 24-month pro forma

Instructions for BUS 400 6-3 assignment

Overview

Creativity and diversity can lead to outcomes that both maximize profit and enhance social well-being. Business leaders use measurable factors to help determine design and development decisions, “go” or “no-go” milestones, financial models, and many “what-if” scenarios. In this process, the new product or service is considered as part of a system.

Scenario

You rocked your BMC and received a great response from the experienced project manager (PM). As you read the feedback, you realize that it’s now time to develop the financial component. In the comments, the PM also stated that no matter how good an idea is, to senior management, it’s a “no-go” if the new product or service does not produce sales.

In preparation for your funding pitch, which you will submit as your course project in Module Seven, the PM also warns that funding pitches are quick and decisive. Including too much information could overwhelm senior management, cause more questions, and erode the purpose of the funding pitch.

Prompt

The PM’s directive at this point is for you to develop a 24-month pro forma that demonstrates the potential profitability of the new product or service in an income statement. You will use the Module Six Assignment Template linked in the Guidelines for Submission section to complete this assignment.

You may use the current company’s income statement to project what can be added to the company’s profitability. This can be found in the company’s 10-K. Look to other companies in the marketplace with products or services similar to the one you are proposing as a basis for your projections. Additionally, you may use the company’s current year numbers and key assumptions based on your analysis of the market to project into the future. Remember, these numbers are purely speculative.

In the template, you will specifically address the following:

Previous fiscal year: Identify historical information for the previous fiscal year.
24-month projections: Speculate projections for 24 months.
Explanation of assumptions: Explain how you were able to speculate on appropriate assumptions.

What to Submit

Submit the completed Module Six Assignment Template as a Word document. Sources should be cited according to APA style.

Introduction to BUS 400 6-3 Assignment

In this Owlisdom How-To Guide, you will learn how to develop a 24-month pro forma financial statement for a new product or service as part of your business course. The BUS 400 6-3 assignment: 24-month pro forma is crucial for demonstrating potential profitability to senior management and securing funding for your project.

Previous fiscal year: Identify historical information for the last fiscal year.

Previous Fiscal Year Analysis

To start the BUS 400 6-3 assignment: 24-month pro forma, we will write the fiscal year financial data for the previous year.

Retrieve the previous fiscal year’s financial data from your company’s latest 10-K report.
Focus on revenue, cost of goods sold, operating expenses, net income, and other relevant financial metrics.

24-month projections: Speculate projections for 24 months.

24-Month Financial Projections

For this part of the BUS 400 6-3 assignment: 24-month pro forma, we will write the projected financials for the next 24 months.

Revenue Projections: Estimate sales growth based on market analysis and historical data.
Expense Projections: Forecast future expenses, considering both fixed and variable costs.
Net Income: Calculate projected net income by subtracting estimated expenses from projected revenues.

Explanation of assumptions: Explain how you were able to speculate appropriate assumptions.

Explanation of Assumptions

For the last section of the BUS 400 6-3 assignment: 24-month pro forma, we will explain our assumptions.

Explain how market research, competitive analysis, and historical performance guide your financial projections.
Include best, worst, and most likely financial scenarios to provide a comprehensive view.

Closing

By following this How-To guide of BUS 400 6-3 assignment: 24-month pro forma, you will be able to create a detailed and persuasive financial forecast that aligns with the expectations of senior management and supports the strategic objectives of your business idea.
In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 7-1 Discussion Feedback Loops.

References

Tesla. (2024, January 24). Tesla Releases Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Financial Results | Tesla Investor Relations. https://ir.tesla.com/press-release/tesla-releases-fourth-quarter-and-full-year-2023-financial-results

Yahoo Finance. (2023). Tesla, Inc. (TSLA) Income Statement—Yahoo Finance. https://finance.yahoo.com/quote/TSLA/financials/

BUS 400 7-1 Discussion: Feedback Loops

Instructions for BUS 400 7-1 Discussion

Discussion

Available on Dec 2, 2023, 11:59 PM. Submission is restricted before availability starts.

Feedback loops are an important tool in making sure your product or service meets or exceeds the business and customer expectations. Your business model should include strategies explaining how you will seek and implement feedback from different sources, with a focus on establishing constructive feedback loops that will help improve your product or service and enhance customer retention.

In your initial post, address the following:

Who will you ask for feedback from within the company?
- How do you plan to seek and address feedback and concerns from these sources within the company?
Describe strategies you plan to use for seeking and addressing feedback from customers.
Outline the internal communication channels you will use to address feedback from internal and external customers.

In your response to two peers, address the following:

What are some similarities and differences between your strategies, both internally and externally?
Do you have any suggestions or recommendations for improving their feedback loops?

To complete this assignment, review the Discussion Rubric.

Introduction to BUS 400 7-1 Discussion

The BUS 400 7-1 Discussion: Feedback Loops revolves around your understanding of Feedback Loops. I will provide brief and descriptive guidelines to solve the 7-1 Discussion post and a dummy solution for each section. This Owlisdom How-To Guide will equip you with guidelines to tackle all the queries related to the BUS 400 7-1 Discussion: Feedback Loops. Let us begin with the guide.

Develop Feedback Collection Strategies

To start the BUS 400 7-1 Discussion: Feedback Loops, we will discuss how to develop feedback collection strategies.

Determine who will provide feedback, including employees from various departments, managers, and executives.
Establish formal channels for feedback collection, such as regular meetings, suggestion boxes, surveys, and feedback forms.
Encourage open communication and create a culture that values feedback and constructive criticism.

Example

To develop effective feedback collection strategies, start by identifying key stakeholders within the company who will provide feedback, including employees from different departments, managers, and executives (Tong et al., 2021). Next, formal channels such as regular meetings, suggestion boxes, surveys, and feedback forms should be established to facilitate feedback collection. Foster open communication and cultivate a culture that values feedback and constructive criticism, encouraging employees to share their insights and suggestions openly. This approach promotes transparency and collaboration, enhancing the overall feedback-collection process.

Who will you ask for feedback from within the company? How do you plan to seek and address feedback and concerns from these sources within the company?

Addressing Feedback

We will discuss how to address feedback for this section of BUS 400 7-1 Discussion: Feedback Loops.

Designate responsible individuals or teams to review and address feedback promptly.
Implement an organised system for categorising and prioritising feedback based on its impact and urgency.

Example

The company will seek feedback from various stakeholders, including employees from different departments, managers, and executives. To seek and address feedback effectively, responsible individuals or teams will be designated to review and address feedback promptly (Wolcott et al., 2021). An organised system will be implemented to categorise and prioritise feedback based on its impact and urgency, ensuring that all concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently. This structured approach fosters accountability and ensures that feedback is handled effectively to drive continuous organisational improvement.

Describe strategies you plan to use for seeking and addressing feedback from customers.

Customer Feedback Strategies

In this section of BUS 400 7-1 Discussion: Feedback Loops, we will describe the strategies for customer feedback.

Utilise multiple channels for gathering customer feedback, including surveys, feedback forms on the website, social media monitoring, and customer support interactions.
Actively listen to customer concerns and suggestions, acknowledging their input and demonstrating a commitment to improvement.

Example

To gather and address customer feedback effectively, we will employ various strategies. This includes utilising multiple channels such as surveys, feedback forms on the website, social media monitoring, and interactions with customer support. We leverage these channels to capture feedback from diverse sources and gather insights into customer preferences and experiences. Additionally, we will actively listen to customer concerns and suggestions, acknowledge their input, and demonstrate our commitment to continuous improvement. This proactive approach ensures that customer feedback is valued and informs our efforts to enhance the quality of our products or services.

Outline the internal communication channels you will use to address feedback from internal and external customers.

Internal Communication Channels

Next, in BUS 400 7-1 Discussion: Feedback Loops. We will discuss the internal communication channels.

Utilise existing internal communication platforms, such as email, intranet, team meetings, and collaborative tools, to disseminate feedback and ensure it reaches the relevant stakeholders.
Foster a collaborative environment where employees feel comfortable sharing feedback and ideas across departments.

Example

We will employ effective internal communication channels to address feedback from internal and external customers. This involves utilising existing platforms like email, intranet, team meetings, and collaborative tools to ensure that feedback reaches the relevant stakeholders promptly. By leveraging these channels, we aim to facilitate transparent communication and collaboration across departments, fostering an environment where employees feel empowered to share feedback and ideas. This collaborative approach enables us to address feedback efficiently and implement necessary improvements to enhance overall customer satisfaction.

What are some similarities and differences between your strategies, both internally and externally? Do you have any suggestions or recommendations for improving their feedback loops?

Peer Responses

Responding to peers is one of the vital parts of the BUS 400 7-1 Discussion: Feedback Loops posts. We need to provide at least two peer responses. I will provide one example post. You can write your peer responses by keeping the following points in mind.

Highlight the similarities and differences between your feedback strategies, both internally and externally.
Offer constructive suggestions for improving their feedback loops, such as expanding feedback sources, implementing regular feedback review sessions, or enhancing communication channels to ensure prompt response to feedback.

Response 01

In comparing our internal and external strategies, we focus on utilising multiple channels for feedback collection and emphasising open communication. However, a notable difference lies in the specificity of internal communication channels, where we emphasise existing platforms like email and team meetings. I suggest incorporating regular feedback review sessions and diversifying feedback sources to enhance feedback loops and gain comprehensive insights. Additionally, optimising communication channels for prompt responses could further improve effectiveness.

Closing

By following these guidelines of BUS 400 7-1 Discussion: Feedback Loops, you can establish effective feedback loops that contribute to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction within your business.
In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 7-2 Project Submission.

References

Tong, S., Jia, N., Luo, X., & Fang, Z. (2021). The Janus face of artificial intelligence feedback: Deployment versus disclosure effects on employee performance. Strategic Management Journal, 42(9), 1600–1631.

Wolcott, M. D., McLaughlin, J. E., Hann, A., Miklavec, A., Beck Dallaghan, G. L., Rhoney, D. H., & Zomorodi, M. (2021). A review to characterise and map the growth mindset theory in health professions education. Medical Education, 55(4), 430–440.

BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission

Instructions for BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission

What to Submit

To complete this project, you must submit one of the following:

Funding pitch video or audio recording
Film a 15-minute camera-facing or audio-only recording. It must be submitted as one of the following file types: SWF, MPG, MPEG, RM, MP3, MP4, M4V, M4A, AVI, WAV, RAM, ASF, MOV, RA. You must also submit a speech outline in a Word document with the topics listed in order and a References page. Sources should be cited according to APA style.

Funding pitch script
Your script should be written as if you were delivering the speech, submitted as a 7- to 8-page Word document. Sources should be cited according to APA style.

Introduction to BUS 400 7-2 Project

BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission clarifies the project’s primary objectives: convincing senior management to greenlight the new product or service. For the BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission, we will explore the critical aspects of the pitch, including the value proposition, competitive advantage, risks and opportunities, growth opportunities, innovation, target segment, sales projections, profitability, CSR plan, and DEI plan.

For this project, I am using Tesla, Inc.

Research and Preparation

To start the BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission, we will research the company we have chosen for this project.

Conduct thorough research on the company’s current market position, strategic plan, SWOT analysis, and financial statements.
Prepare a checklist covering essential elements such as the company’s value proposition, competitive landscape, potential risks, growth opportunities, and community engagement strategies.

Example

For this project, we will thoroughly research Tesla, Inc.’s current market standing, strategic plans, SWOT analysis, and financial reports. This will give us valuable insights into their position in the industry, potential risks, and growth opportunities. Then, we will create a checklist to cover all essential elements, including Tesla’s unique value proposition, competitive landscape, potential risks, growth opportunities, and community engagement strategies. This checklist will serve as a roadmap to guide our pitch preparation and ensure we address all crucial aspects effectively.

Describe the company’s current value proposition in the market. Describe the selected company’s main product or service. Discuss the company’s overall strategic plan.

Value Proposition

We will discuss the value proposition for this section of BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission.

Describe the company’s current market position and principal product or service.
Discuss the company’s strategic plan and how the new project aligns.

Example

Currently, Tesla, Inc. holds a prominent position in the electric vehicle (EV) market and is renowned for its innovative and sustainable approach to transportation (Patil, 2021). The company’s main product line includes electric cars, particularly its flagship models like the Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y, which have garnered widespread acclaim for their performance, safety features, and cutting-edge technology. The Model S, Tesla’s luxury sedan, boasts impressive acceleration, long-range capabilities, and advanced autopilot features, appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers seeking premium electric vehicles (Daylan, 2023). Similarly, the Model 3, Tesla’s more affordable sedan, targets a broader market segment, offering a blend of range, performance, and affordability unmatched by its competitors. The Model X, Tesla’s luxury SUV, showcases innovative design elements such as Falcon-wing doors and spacious interiors, catering to families and adventure enthusiasts. Additionally, Tesla offers energy storage solutions through its Powerwall and Powerpack batteries, enabling homeowners, businesses, and utilities to harness renewable energy sources efficiently.

Tesla’s strategic plan (2021) emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and global expansion. The company aims to revolutionize the automotive industry by accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy through the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy solutions. By investing in research and development, expanding its Gigafactories worldwide, and continuously improving its manufacturing processes, Tesla seeks to enhance its competitive edge and maintain leadership in the EV market. Our new project aligns with Tesla’s strategic vision by introducing the latest addition to its vehicle lineup, the Cybertruck, an all-electric pickup truck designed for both utility and performance, further advancing its mission of sustainability and technological innovation in the automotive sector (Saxena & Vibhandik, 2021).

Describe the competitive advantage the company will gain by funding the project. Describe how you discovered an opportunity to do something better than your competitors. Determine how the new product or service shifts the company’s value proposition.

Competitive Advantage

Next, in BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission. We will explore the competitive advantage.

Identify opportunities to outperform competitors and shift the company’s value proposition.
Explain how the new product or service offers a unique advantage.

Example

In funding our project, we anticipate that Tesla, Inc. will gain a significant competitive advantage in the electric vehicle market. Through our innovative approach and focus on sustainability, we aim to solidify Tesla’s position as a leader in the industry. By introducing the Cybertruck, an all-electric pickup truck with unique design features and performance capabilities, we distinguish ourselves from competitors and attract a new segment of customers seeking environmentally friendly utility vehicles (Berry, 2023). Our thorough market research and analysis revealed an opportunity to address unmet needs in the pickup truck market, particularly regarding sustainability, performance, and design. According to Maamoun (2021), the Cybertruck’s robust construction, impressive towing capacity, and advanced technology set it apart from traditional gasoline-powered trucks, offering customers a compelling alternative with superior performance and environmental benefits. By introducing the Cybertruck, Tesla expands its product portfolio and redefines its value proposition, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement, further enhancing its competitive positioning in the automotive market (Bredenfeld et al., 2020).

Establish the company’s risks and growth opportunities. Determine if the new product or service could disrupt the current industry. Identify the risks associated with the development of this new product or service.

Risks and Opportunities

Now, in BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission. We will discuss the risks and opportunities.

Assess potential industry disruption and associated risks.
Highlight growth opportunities and how the project mitigates risks.

Example

As we delve into Tesla, Inc.’s risks and growth opportunities, we must recognize the potential for industry disruption and associated risks accompanying the introduction of new products (WU et al., n.d.). While Tesla has been a trailblazer in electric vehicles, venturing into new markets with innovative offerings like the Cybertruck presents promising prospects and formidable challenges. The inherently disruptive nature of electric vehicles holds the promise of reshaping the automotive industry landscape. However, it exposes Tesla to various risks, including technological constraints, supply chain vulnerabilities, and regulatory ambiguities.

However, Tesla (2023) is poised to capitalize on the burgeoning opportunities within the expanding electric vehicle market by harnessing its formidable innovative capabilities and leveraging its strong brand reputation. Moreover, the company’s steadfast commitment to continuous research and development and its vertically integrated business model serve as a robust mechanism for mitigating risks associated with product development and market penetration. Through meticulous risk assessment and strategic planning, Tesla can navigate potential challenges while adeptly seizing opportunities, reinforcing its position as a frontrunner in sustainable transportation (Saxena & Vibhandik, 2021).

Describe the areas of potential growth for the company. Identify the growth opportunities within the company. Explain how the competitive advantage allows for growth.

Growth Opportunities

For this section of BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission, we will explore the possible areas for growth opportunities.

Identify areas for potential growth within the company.
Explain how the competitive advantage facilitates growth.

Example

As we delve into Tesla, Inc.’s potential growth opportunities, it is essential to identify critical areas within the company’s operations that offer avenues for expansion and development (Kumari & Bhat, 2021). One significant area for potential growth lies in Tesla’s ongoing efforts to diversify its product portfolio beyond electric vehicles. With initiatives such as energy storage solutions, solar products, and autonomous driving technology, Tesla is strategically positioned to capitalize on emerging trends in sustainable energy and transportation. According to Patil (2021), Tesla’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement also presents inherent growth opportunities within its core business segments, driving continued market penetration and revenue generation.

Furthermore, Tesla’s competitive advantage, rooted in its brand reputation, technological prowess, and visionary leadership, catalyzes sustained growth. By leveraging its robust brand equity and cutting-edge technologies, Tesla can effectively differentiate itself from competitors and capture market share in existing and emerging segments. Moreover, Tesla’s vertically integrated business model and ecosystem approach enable seamless integration of products and services, fostering synergies and unlocking new avenues for revenue generation (Ascard & Wingö, 2020).

Tesla’s strategic focus on innovation, diversification, and market expansion aligns with its overarching objective of driving sustainable growth and profitability. By capitalizing on internal strengths and external opportunities while mitigating potential risks, Tesla can navigate the dynamic business landscape with confidence and resilience, cementing its position as a global leader in sustainable transportation and energy solutions.

Distinguish the new product/service as an innovation or improvement on an existing product/service. Determine if the product or service fits within the capabilities of the company. Note: A company’s SWOT analysis or 10-K indicates whether the new product or service could be feasible. Explain how the new product or service adds to the company’s portfolio.

Innovation

Now, in BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission. We will discuss the innovative areas of the chosen company.

Determine the feasibility of the new product or service within the company’s capabilities.
Describe how the innovation adds value to the company’s portfolio.

Example

As we delve into Tesla, Inc.’s innovative areas, assessing the feasibility and value proposition of the new product or service within the company’s capabilities is crucial (Wang, 2023). Firstly, we must distinguish whether the proposed product or service represents an innovation or an improvement on an existing offering. Tesla has a history of pioneering innovations in the electric vehicle (EV) and sustainable energy sectors, evidenced by its groundbreaking advancements in battery technology, autonomous driving systems, and energy storage solutions. By leveraging its core competencies in EV manufacturing, software development, and renewable energy integration, Tesla can effectively introduce innovative products or services that address evolving market demands and customer preferences (Wang, 2023).

Moreover, conducting a comprehensive analysis of Tesla’s capabilities is essential, as indicated by its SWOT analysis or annual reports (10-K). This assessment helps determine whether the proposed innovation aligns with Tesla’s strategic objectives, technological expertise, and operational infrastructure. For instance, if the new product or service requires significant investments in research and development, manufacturing capabilities, or supply chain logistics beyond Tesla’s current capabilities, it may pose challenges in execution and scalability (WU et al., n.d.).

Furthermore, we must articulate how the proposed innovation adds value to Tesla’s existing portfolio and enhances its competitive positioning in the market. By introducing differentiated products or services that address unmet customer needs or capitalize on emerging trends, Tesla can strengthen its brand equity, expand its market reach, and drive revenue growth. Additionally, by integrating the new offering seamlessly into its ecosystem of products and services, Tesla can create synergies and unlock new opportunities for cross-selling and upselling, thereby maximizing customer lifetime value and fostering sustainable business growth (Kumari & Bhat, 2021).

Describe the targeted segment. Identify the target customer. Explain your blue ocean strategy. Note: The new market is identified here.

Target Segment

For the next part of BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission, we will discuss the target segments of our chosen company.

Define the target customer and explain the blue ocean strategy.
Identify the new market segment.

Example

As we analyze Tesla, Inc.’s target segments, we must define the target customer’s specific demographics, psychographics, and behavioral characteristics. Tesla’s target segment comprises environmentally conscious consumers, tech enthusiasts, and early adopters of innovative technologies. When purchasing, these individuals prioritize sustainability, cutting-edge technology, and superior performance (Xinyi et al., 2022). Our blue ocean strategy involves identifying untapped market spaces and creating uncontested ones, making competition irrelevant. We aim to redefine industry boundaries and capture new market opportunities by focusing on disruptive innovations and addressing unmet customer needs.

Moreover, our strategy entails identifying the new market segment where Tesla can gain a competitive advantage and achieve differentiation (Bredenfeld et al., 2020). This involves conducting market research to identify emerging trends, customer preferences, and market gaps. We can pinpoint niche segments with high growth potential and minimal competition through segmentation analysis and customer profiling. For instance, Tesla may explore expanding its market presence in sectors such as electric vehicles for commercial fleets, renewable energy solutions for residential communities, or autonomous driving technology for public transportation systems.

By targeting niche segments with tailored products and services, Tesla can leverage its brand reputation, technological expertise, and innovative capabilities to gain a first-mover advantage and establish itself as a market leader (Xinyi et al., 2022). Additionally, by aligning our marketing, product development, and distribution strategies with the needs and preferences of the target segment, we can create a compelling value proposition that resonates with customers and drives adoption. Ultimately, we can unlock new avenues for growth and sustainable competitive advantage by strategically positioning Tesla in untapped market spaces.

Speculate on the projected sales.

Justify your product or service by the numbers; discuss your projected revenue gain. Note: It MUST have an ROI that justifies the project for investors and senior management. Explain the risks associated with projected sales. Speculate on the profitability of your proposed product or service. Determine if the project is profitable. Note: In this pitch for funding, senior management has to know that the project, based on market research, is speculated to be profitable. Use the company’s current income statement to project how the company’s profitability will be affected. Look to other companies in the marketplace with products or services similar to your proposal as a basis for your projections. Note: These numbers are purely speculative. Determine the impact on the functional areas of the business (accounting, marketing, sales, and so on).

Speculated Sales and Profitability

For this section of the BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission, we will explore the speculated sales and profitability of the chosen company.

Justify the projected revenue gain and discuss the ROI.
Address risks associated with sales projections and profitability.

Example

As we delve into the projected sales and profitability of Tesla, Inc.’s proposed product or service, we must justify our revenue projections and discuss the return on investment (ROI) to reassure investors and senior management of the project’s viability. Our market research indicates a strong demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainable energy solutions, aligning with Tesla’s core offerings (Le & Ho, 2021). By leveraging Tesla’s brand reputation, technological prowess, and expansive market reach, we anticipate significant revenue gains from the sale of EVs, energy storage systems, and solar products.

However, we must address potential risks associated with sales projections and profitability. Market competition, regulatory changes, supply chain disruptions, and economic downturns pose inherent risks to our sales forecasts and profitability estimates. Mitigation strategies, such as diversifying product offerings, enhancing operational efficiency, and strengthening partnerships, can help minimize these risks and safeguard profitability (Le & Ho, 2021).

Regarding profitability, our projections indicate a positive impact on Tesla’s financial performance. By analyzing Tesla’s current income statement and benchmarking against competitors in the EV and renewable energy sectors, we estimate the project’s contribution to revenue growth and bottom-line profitability. Our financial analysis considers production costs, pricing strategies, sales volumes, and operating expenses to determine the project’s profitability (Sikharulidze, n.d.).

Furthermore, we anticipate significant impacts on functional areas of the business, including accounting, marketing, sales, and operations. Tesla’s accounting department will track revenue, expenses, and profitability metrics for the new product or service. Marketing efforts will focus on promoting the product’s unique features, value proposition, and environmental benefits to target customers. Sales teams will generate leads, close deals, and maximize sales opportunities. Operations teams will ensure efficient production, distribution, and customer service to support product demand and enhance customer satisfaction.

Our projections indicate a promising outlook for Tesla’s profitability and market performance when introducing the proposed product or service. We aim to drive sustainable growth and create long-term value for Tesla and its stakeholders by addressing potential risks, maximizing revenue opportunities, and aligning functional strategies.

Outline the plan to service the community or customers who purchase the product or service. Discuss how the idea demonstrates corporate social responsibility (CSR). Identify what the company has invested in the communities it serves. Discuss how a good CSR plan helps the company gain a competitive advantage.

CSR Plan

Next, this section of the BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission revolves around the CSR plan of the chosen company.

Outline the company’s commitment to CSR and community engagement.
Discuss how the project contributes to CSR and enhances the company’s competitive advantage.

Example

As we outline our plan to serve the community and customers who purchase Tesla’s products or services, we prioritize initiatives that align with our commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and community engagement (Corbett, 2020). Our goal is to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions and positively impact society and the environment. We plan to achieve this by implementing various initiatives, such as:

Environmental Sustainability: We will continue to invest in renewable energy technologies and promote sustainable transportation solutions, such as electric vehicles and solar energy products. By reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy adoption, we contribute to environmental conservation efforts and mitigate climate change.

Customer Support and Education: We are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and support to ensure a seamless customer experience. Additionally, we will offer educational programs and resources to raise awareness about the benefits of electric vehicles, energy efficiency, and renewable energy sources.

Community Partnerships: We will collaborate with local communities, non-profit organizations, and government agencies to address societal challenges and support community development initiatives. By investing in regional infrastructure projects, education programs, and workforce development initiatives, we aim to foster economic growth and social progress in the communities we serve.

Supply Chain Responsibility: We will uphold ethical business practices and promote responsible sourcing and manufacturing throughout our supply chain. By ensuring fair labor practices, minimizing environmental impact, and promoting transparency, we demonstrate our commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

Our CSR initiatives reflect our values as a company and contribute to our competitive advantage in the marketplace. By prioritizing sustainability, customer satisfaction, and community engagement, we enhance brand loyalty, attract environmentally conscious consumers, and differentiate ourselves from competitors. Moreover, a robust CSR plan strengthens our reputation, builds trust with stakeholders, and fosters long-term relationships, ultimately driving sustainable growth and success for Tesla, Inc.

Summarize how the project will include a variety of perspectives to get a better, unique value proposition. Determine if the company has a corporate culture built on DEI. Discuss how the project’s DEI plan fits into the company’s strategic plan.

DEI Plan

Next, in BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission. We will discuss the DEI plans.

Evaluate the company’s DEI culture and strategic alignment.
Summarize the project’s DEI plan and integration into the company’s strategic vision.

Example

As we evaluate Tesla’s corporate culture and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), we aim to ensure that our project incorporates a variety of perspectives to enhance its unique value proposition (Uysal, 2023). We can generate innovative ideas and solutions that resonate with a broader audience by fostering an inclusive environment where diverse voices are heard and valued. We will assess the company’s existing DEI initiatives, policies, and practices to determine how DEI is ingrained in its culture and values.

Additionally, we will summarize our project’s DEI plan and demonstrate how it aligns with Tesla’s strategic vision (Uysal, 2023). Our DEI plan will encompass strategies for recruiting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent and creating an inclusive work environment where all employees feel empowered to contribute their ideas and perspectives. By integrating DEI considerations into our project, we enhance our ability to innovate and solve complex problems and reinforce Tesla’s commitment to social responsibility and ethical business practices. Ultimately, leveraging diversity as a source of strength and competitive advantage can drive positive change within our organization and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society.

Conclusion

In this section of BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission. Sum up the key takeaways from the project in a short, brief paragraph.

Example

In conclusion, our comprehensive pitch for funding encompasses a thorough analysis of Tesla’s market position, strategic opportunities, risks, and commitment to social responsibility. By aligning our proposed project with Tesla’s core values and strategic objectives, we aim to secure senior management’s support for our innovative venture. Through diligent research, thoughtful planning, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we are poised to drive sustainable growth, profitability, and positive societal impact. Together, we can propel Tesla to new heights of success and leadership in the automotive industry.

Closing

By following these guidelines of BUS 400 7-2 Project Submission, students can effectively prepare and deliver a compelling funding pitch demonstrating a thorough understanding of the project’s objectives, market dynamics, and strategic implications.
In the next module of BUS-400, we will explore the 8-1 Assignment Next Steps.

BUS 400 8-1 Assignment: Next Steps

Instructions for BUS 400 8-1 Assignment

Scenario

The funding pitch went extremely well, and you just received word that your idea for the new product/service has been approved. In fact, senior management sent a memo, company-wide, announcing the project.

One line in the memo really caught your attention: “We are eager to see the project to completion and the many other product offerings to come from this initiative.”

You reach out to the project manager (PM) and are told that, typically, senior management expects to see product/service extensions or some type of next steps stemming from an original product. This could include different versions of the product/service, such as cheaper or premium versions, new targeted customers, and more. The PM also adds that senior management will look for contingency planning to protect the funding for the project.

Prompt

For your business continuity plan, consider your next steps, including project improvements and how to mitigate risk to the project to protect the product investment. To accomplish this, you must leverage employee and customer feedback on the new product/service. Additionally, research the market and use a PESTLE analysis to examine if any external factors could affect your new product offering.

Specifically, your plan must address the following criteria:

Business continuity plan: Outline a basic business continuity plan for your business that identifies key business areas and critical functions, as well as identifies at least one measure for recovering or maintaining critical business operations in case of an emergency. Include how you will ensure that this plan is followed.
Post-launch stage: Propose new ideas for the post-launch stage, including one idea for a product/service improvement you plan to implement after the initial launch, and one idea for increasing your customer base or engagement after the initial launch.
Feedback loops: Explain how you will implement feedback loops for your product or service.
PESTLE analysis: Use PESTLE analysis to identify at least one external risk factor that may affect the project. Then provide a solution or contingency plan for mitigating that risk.

What to Submit

Submissions must be a 1- to 2-page Word document. Any sources cited should use APA formatting.

Introduction to BUS 400 8-1 Assignment

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Outline a basic business continuity plan for your business that identifies key business areas and critical functions and identifies at least one measure for recovering or maintaining essential business operations in an emergency. Include how you will ensure that this plan is followed.

Identify Key Business Areas

We will explore the key business areas to start BUS 400 8-1 Assignment: Next Steps.

Determine critical functions and departments essential for business operations.
Identify crucial departments like production, sales, customer service, and IT. List specific functions within each department that are vital for business continuity.
Identify essential tasks within each key area that must continue during emergencies.
Specify tasks like order processing, customer support, data backup, and inventory management. Assign responsibilities for each task to ensure clarity during emergencies.

Example

As we develop our business continuity plan for Tesla, Inc., we first identify critical functions and departments pivotal for uninterrupted operations. Key areas include production, sales, customer service, and IT. Specific tasks like order processing, customer support, data backup, and inventory management are deemed essential within each department. Assigning clear responsibilities ensures clarity during emergencies, facilitating smooth operations.

Recovery Measures

Develop measures for recovering or maintaining critical operations in emergencies.
Create backup plans for each critical function. Establish protocols for remote work, alternate communication channels, and emergency supply procurement.

Example

To safeguard critical operations during emergencies, we establish comprehensive recovery measures. This involves creating backup plans for each critical function, ensuring redundancy and resilience. Protocols for remote work, alternate communication channels, and emergency supply procurement are developed to mitigate disruptions effectively.

Plan Implementation

Define procedures for implementing and activating the business continuity plan.
Conduct regular training sessions to familiarize employees with emergency protocols. Establish a communication cascade to ensure swift dissemination of information during crises.

Example

Implementation of the business continuity plan is crucial for its effectiveness. We define clear procedures for activating the plan and ensuring its adherence through regular training sessions. These sessions familiarize employees with emergency protocols while establishing a communication cascade that facilitates swift dissemination of information during crises, enhancing organizational preparedness and resilience.

Propose new ideas for the post-launch stage, including one idea for a product/service improvement you plan to implement after the initial launch and one for increasing your customer base or engagement after the initial launch.

Proposing Post-Launch Strategies

For this section of BUS 400 8-1 Assignment: Next Steps, we will introduce ideas for enhancing the product or service after the initial launch.

Brainstorm enhancements such as feature additions, performance optimizations, or cost-effectiveness improvements. Prioritize improvements based on customer feedback and market trends.
Develop strategies to broaden the customer base or enhance customer engagement post-launch. Explore avenues for targeting new customer segments or diversifying marketing channels. Consider loyalty programs, referral incentives, or personalized customer experiences to boost engagement.

Example

As we transition into the post-launch stage for Tesla’s new product or service, we aim to enhance customer satisfaction and expand our market reach. We propose implementing product/service improvements based on customer feedback and market trends, prioritizing features, performance, and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, we plan to broaden our customer base and increase engagement through targeted marketing strategies, such as loyalty programs, referral incentives, and personalized customer experiences. These initiatives will drive growth and foster long-term customer relationships.

Explain how you will implement feedback loops for your product or service.

Implementing Feedback Loops

Next, in BUS 400 8-1 Assignment: Next Steps. We will establish channels for gathering feedback from employees and customers.

Deploy surveys, suggestion boxes, online forums, or feedback forms to collect insights. Encourage open communication and assure respondents of anonymity to foster honest feedback.
Outline procedures for analyzing feedback and implementing necessary improvements.
Designate a team responsible for reviewing feedback regularly. Prioritize actionable insights and develop strategies for addressing identified issues promptly.

Example

As we strive to gather employee and customer feedback for our product or service, we will implement various channels to ensure comprehensive insights. We will deploy surveys, suggestion boxes, online forums, and feedback forms, fostering an environment of open communication and assuring anonymity for honest feedback. Our team will diligently analyze the input received, prioritizing actionable insights and promptly addressing identified issues. By designating a dedicated team responsible for feedback review and improvement strategies, we aim to continuously enhance our product or service based on valuable input from stakeholders.

Use PESTLE analysis to identify at least one external risk factor affecting the project. Then, provide a solution or contingency plan for mitigating that risk.

Conducting PESTLE Analysis

For the last section of the BUS 400 8-1 Assignment: Next Steps, we will conduct a PESTLE analysis to identify external risks and develop risk mitigation strategies.

Identify External Risks

Utilize PESTLE analysis to identify external factors potentially impacting the project.
Assess political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors influencing the project. Identify risks such as regulatory changes, economic downturns, or technological disruptions.

Identifying External Risks

In conducting a PESTLE analysis, we aim to pinpoint external factors that could pose risks to our project. We’ll scrutinize political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental elements that may influence our venture. Potential risks might include regulatory changes impacting our operations, economic downturns, and other challenges related to shifts in these areas. In the context of the BUS 400 Module Eight Assignment, understanding these factors is crucial for assessing both opportunities and threats.

Risk Mitigation Strategies

Formulate contingency plans to mitigate identified external risks.

Develop proactive measures to counter each identified risk. Establish partnerships, diversify supply chains, or lobby for favorable regulatory policies where applicable.

Risk Mitigation Strategies

To mitigate identified external risks, we’ll develop robust contingency plans. Each risk will have a tailored proactive approach. For instance, we may establish strategic partnerships to navigate regulatory hurdles, diversify our supply chains to buffer against economic fluctuations, or advocate for feasible regulatory policies. By proactively addressing external risks, we bolster our project’s resilience and enhance our chances of success amidst volatile environments.

Closing

Following these guidelines of BUS 400 8-1 Assignment: Next Steps, you can develop a comprehensive business continuity plan and post-launch strategies while implementing robust feedback loops and mitigating external risks through informed analysis and proactive measures.
You can also read BUS-400 complete modules to ace the course!