Analysis and Choice

Target Organization: Lowes Inc 

Critical Thinking Assignment is a continuation of assessment of your target organization and a building block to the Portfolio Project.

Before beginning this exercise, review the Strategy-Formulation Analytical Framework below. This Critical Thinking Assignment focuses on Stage 2: The Matching Stage.

(Figure 6-2) The Strategy–Formulation Analytical Framework

Then, choose two tools that are used in the matching stage that are appropriate for your target organization; there are a number of tools/matrices displayed and explained in the textbook. At least one of those tools for this assignment must come from your textbook (SWOT Matrix, SPACE Matrix, BCG Matrix, IE Matrix, Grand Strategy Matrix). The second tool may come from another source. Please include the source for this second tool and explain how this tool is appropriate for your target organization.

When you have completed the matrices, write an executive summary to include the following:

An overview of your target organization

An explanation of the Strategy-Formulation Analytical Framework (Figure 6-2)

The synthesized findings from Stage 1: The Input Stage

The rationale for the Stage 2 tools that you chose for this assignment

You may use figures and tables within the executive summary to condense information if you wish.

Include both Stage 1 and Stage 2 exhibits that you have developed as Appendixes. 

Adhere to APA standards for tables, figures, and appendixes.

When writing your paper, be sure to follow these guidelines:

Four to six pages in length, organized, and well-written in conformity with the APA.

Support your answers using four to six peer-reviewed articles/professional sources in addition to the textbook.

Include a title page, section headers, introduction, conclusion, and reference page