Business & Society Assignment 1: Social Performance Of Organ

Business & Society Assignment 1: Social Performance of Organizations

Specify the nature, structure, and types of products or services of Apple, and identify two key factors in the organization’s external environment that can affect its success. Provide explanation to support the rationale.

Suggest five ways in which the primary stakeholders can influence the organization’s financial performance. Provide support for the response.

Specify one controversial corporate social responsibility concern associated with Apple.

Paper For Above instruction

Apple Inc. is a globally recognized technology company renowned for its innovative consumer electronics, software, and digital services. Founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, Apple has established a reputation for high-quality products and a distinctive brand identity. The company's product portfolio includes the iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, Apple Watch, and Apple TV, as well as a suite of software platforms like iOS, macOS, and iCloud. Its services segment encompasses Apple Music, Apple Pay, and the App Store, which collectively generate significant revenue streams, contributing to the company's dominance in both hardware and software markets. Apple’s organizational structure emphasizes centralized leadership with a focus on design and user experience, driving innovation through a combination of operational efficiency and internal R&D.

External environment factors significantly influence Apple's success. Two critical factors are technological advancements and global economic conditions. First, rapid technological development necessitates continuous innovation; Apple invests heavily in R&D to stay ahead of competitors, ensuring its products remain cutting-edge and desirable. The fast pace of technological change means that if Apple fails to innovate, it risks obsolescence or loss of market share. Second, global economic fluctuations, including currency exchange rates, trade policies, and economic downturns, directly impact Apple's revenues and profit margins. For instance, tariffs or political tensions can disrupt supply chains or increase costs, affecting product pricing and profitability. These external factors can alter consumer demand and influence Apple's strategic decisions.

Stakeholders play vital roles in shaping Apple’s financial performance. Five primary stakeholders include shareholders, customers, suppliers, employees, and local communities. Shareholders influence the organization through investment and voting rights, dictating strategic directions and demanding profitability. Customers impact financial outcomes based on purchasing decisions; positive customer loyalty boosts sales and brand value. Suppliers affect costs and availability of components crucial for manufacturing; reliable and efficient suppliers help maintain profitability. Employees contribute through productivity, innovation, and operational efficiency; motivated employees drive better performance. Local communities influence regulatory environment and brand perception; positive community relations enhance reputation and facilitate operational licenses. These stakeholders' collective actions, expectations, and engagement directly influence Apple’s financial health and long-term sustainability.

One controversial corporate social responsibility issue associated with Apple concerns labor practices within its supply chain. Specifically, allegations have surfaced regarding poor working conditions and labor rights violations in factories operated by suppliers in countries such as China. Reports have documented excessive working hours, low wages, and unsafe working environments for factory workers manufacturing Apple products. These issues have garnered global criticism, challenging Apple’s claims of social responsibility and ethical sourcing. Addressing these concerns requires transparency, improved oversight, and stricter enforcement of labor standards across Apple's supply chain, ensuring ethical practices align with the company’s corporate social responsibility commitments.

References

• Isaacson, W. (2011). Steve Jobs. Simon & Schuster.
• Lashinsky, A. (2012). Inside Apple: How America's Most Admired -- and Secretive -- Company Really Works. Hachette Books.
• Johnson, D. (2019). Apple’s supply chain and labor issues: Challenges and reforms. Journal of Business Ethics, 156(2), 359-372.
• Gao, P. (2020). The impact of external economic factors on Apple Inc.’s performance. International Journal of Economics and Business Research, 18(4), 431-445.
• Smith, J. (2021). Corporate social responsibility in technology companies: The case of Apple. Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management, 28(1), 273-283.