Strategic Management: From Theory to Implementation, 4th Edition

CHAPTER 17

Strategic planning – a second look at the basic options

This chapter aims to provide another way of looking at strategic options, which is related to the nature of the action instead of the source from which it is derived. Seven major options are explored in some depth: divestment (including outsourcing), obtaining licences, giving licences, various expansion methods, research and development, acquisition and merger, and strategic alliances. The value and difficulties of the approaches are explored. Practical guidance is given to help improve the chances of success if the option is chosen.

In Chapter 14 there was a considerable discussion of the matrix (Figure 14.3) into which most strategic alternatives could be fitted. Within each ...