Select an organization to study and analyze (Home Depot), write a 3–5-page paper (excluding title and reference pages) assessing your organization and demonstrating that “You are clear on the problem to solve” (Milestone #1).

GM543 Unit 1 = Milestone 1 Focus Paper

Grading Criteria Points Possible

Content, focus, use of research, organization

 Response successfully answers the Assignment question(s); thoroughly uses the text and other literature. Includes a strong thesis statement, introduction, and conclusion. The main points of the paper are developed clearly. All arguments are supported well (no errors in logic) using outside sources as assigned.

 Sources are primarily academic journals, with thoughtful use web sources. References are applied substantively to the paper topic. Skillfully addresses counter-arguments and does not ignore data contradicting its claim. Refers to sources both in-text and in the reference page.

40 points (50%)

Introduction of selected organization. 5

Research on the strategic priorities of your selected organization. Through the use of a SWOT analysis, define the strategic priorities and identify any current gaps to be addressed.

10

Based on the SWOT and gap identification, prepare a clearly written problem statement.

10

Conclusion should briefly summarize the primary points of the paper and recommend a call to action.

5

Integration of appropriate outside resources – including in-text citations throughout with a corresponding item on reference list. A minimum of three resources required. At least one resource must be from a peer reviewed (scholarly) journal.

10

Analysis and critical thinking

 Response exhibits strong higher-order critical thinking and analysis (e.g., evaluation). Paper shows original thought.

 Analysis includes proper classifications, explanations, comparisons, and inferences.

 Critical thinking includes appropriate judgments, conclusions, and assessment based on evaluation and synthesis of information.

24 points (30%)

Analysis of the current state of the Six Design Drivers (you are encouraged to use a table to present strengths and weaknesses, see text p. 57). Analysis of the organization’s capabilities.

14

Recommendations for design criteria specific to the organization (you are encouraged to use a table to summarize, see text p. 64).

10

Writing style, grammar, APA format

 Appropriate to the Assignment, fresh (interesting to read), accurate, (no far-fetched, unsupported comments), precise (say what you mean), and concise (not wordy).

 Grammatical skills are strong with typically less than one error per page. Project is free of serious errors; grammar, punctuation, and spelling help to clarify the meaning by following accepted conventions.

 Project is in 12-point font. Narrative sections are double-spaced. Correct use of APA for citations and references. Title page present and accurate.

16 points (20%)

Writing style 5

Grammar and mechanics – including section headings: Title Page Introduction Business Case Strategic Priorities Analysis of Design Drivers Recommendations for Design Criteria Conclusion References

6

Formatting and use of APA 5

Total 80 points