Value Chain Analysis Research Assignment

Part one of this assignment is designed to deepen your understanding of value chain management by applying theoretical concepts to a real-world context. You will select a mid- to large-sized publicly traded company, assume a management role, and analyze the company's value chain from that perspective. There is no minimum word or page count. This is your assignment. However, you will be assessed on your ability to demonstrate high levels of critical thinking, problem solving, decision-making, research, and analysis skills. Review the Course Outcome 1 rubric to understand how you will be assessed on this assignment in Unit 3.

Execute the following steps to complete Part 1 of this assignment:

Assignment Requirements:

Step 1: Presentation Format

• Choose a design template from Microsoft PowerPoint.
• Your PowerPoint should contain a title, mind map, and reference slide.
• APA 7th edition formatting of references is required.
• Each content-related slide should contain explanatory notes.
• Identify and connect research resources to the facts, ideas, knowledge, concepts, topics, etc. in your mind map. Extensive research beyond your textbook is expected.

Step 2: Company Selection

• Visit the Mergent database in the Library. Choose a publicly traded company in an industry that interests you to study. The company should produce a minimum of $100 million in revenue.
• Introduce your chosen company. Conduct research and provide a thorough overview of your chosen company. Include facts, figures, financial information, etc. Make a good first impression.

Step 3: Role Selection

• Choose one of the following management roles as a lens for your analysis:
  • Supply Chain Manager
  • Operations Manager
  • Procurement Manager
  • Product Manager
  • Logistics Manager
  • Customer Experience Manager
  • Marketing Manager
• Provide a detailed overview of your chosen role. Conduct research and explain how your chosen role relates to the contemporary value chain. In presenting your analysis, be creative and present facts, figures, financial information, responsibilities, etc.

Step 4: Mind Map Development

• Create a mind map that visually represents the contemporary value chain in relation to your management role and the organization you have chosen to study. Be creative.
• Identify one product your chosen organization offers to map its relationship to the contemporary value chain.
• Include key components such as leadership, culture, procurement, technology, and information management, and how these elements interconnect within the value chain to create a competitive advantage.
• Identify and compare key elements of your organization's contemporary value chain.
• Identify how each key element of the contemporary value chain relates to customer needs and customer value.
• Connect each element of your mind map to various research sources that support your analysis.
• You may use a mind mapping tool of your choice. There are many options. Discuss potential tools with your instructor.

Step 5: Mind Map Slide Notes

• Explain your mind map thoroughly, demonstrating high levels of critical thinking, problem solving, decision-making, and analysis skills.
• From the perspective of your chosen management role (e.g., product manager, supply chain manager, operations manager, etc.), explain the purpose, influence, specific functions, and processes within the value chain in relation to your chosen organization.
• Identify key stakeholders (employees, customers, suppliers, etc.) and map their relationship to the value chain.
• Assess how strategic value chain integration could manage stakeholder needs and concerns.
• Include insights from industry reports, market analyses, and academic research that provide a deeper understanding of how mergers influence value chain dynamics.
• Use plenty of research to substantiate your thoughts, ideas, opinions, and statements. If you are covering theories, principles, or concepts, be sure to cite your references.