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600 words

Now is the time to make a decision about relocating the manufacturing operation to the United States is fast-approaching. AutoEdge, like most companies, uses a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threat (SWOT) analysis to facilitate its decision making.

You have just completed your first monthly activity report for the board when Lester calls.

"Hi," you say. "I just finished my monthly report for the board. I'll e-mail it to you when we get done talking."

"Sounds good," he says. "I'm calling because we need your expertise again for another facet of our investigation into the manufacturing operation. This time, I want you to conduct a detailed SWOT analysis for AutoEdge, and provide a brief summary of your analysis."

"I was expecting this," you say. "Some of the research I've done over the past 4 weeks will be useful as I put this analysis together for you."

"Yes, I thought you were in a good position to do this work," he says. "Your analysis may be different from other people who have been at the company longer, but your fresh perspective on the components will be helpful in moving the debate forward."

"That's a good point," you say. "I'll keep that in mind as I go through the information."

The materials found in the M.U.S.E. may help you with this assignment. Additional information is also provided in the Lessons from Experience series found at the following link:

• Forecasting With Numbers