Please Do Paper On Briggs And Stratton Small Engine Company
Please Do Paper On Briggs And Stratton Small Engine Companychoosean Or
Write a 1,050-word minimum environmental analysis of Briggs and Stratton Small Engine Company. Include the following: Determine how to create value and sustain competitive advantage using environmental scanning strategy. Evaluate the company's external environment. Assess the company's general environment. Evaluate the organization's industry operating environment. Format your paper according to APA guidelines.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
Briggs & Stratton Corporation, renowned for its manufacturing of small engines, power generation products, and outdoor equipment, has established a significant presence within the small engine industry. An environmental analysis focusing on Briggs & Stratton reveals how the company can leverage environmental scanning to create value and sustain a competitive advantage. By understanding its external environment, including general and industry-specific factors, Briggs & Stratton can develop strategic responses to external opportunities and threats, positioning itself for long-term success.
Creating Value and Sustaining Competitive Advantage through Environmental Scanning
Environmental scanning involves systematic collection and analysis of information about external factors impacting the organization. For Briggs & Stratton, this process ensures awareness of shifts in technology, regulation, consumer preferences, and competitive dynamics. This continuous process allows the firm to identify opportunities for innovation, cost reduction, or market expansion, and to proactively respond to threats such as environmental regulations or emerging competitors. The primary value of environmental scanning lies in its capacity to inform strategic decisions that align with external realities, thereby enabling the company to maintain a competitive advantage over rivals.
Briggs & Stratton can use environmental scanning to foster innovation in engine technology, emphasizing fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability, aligning with global trends toward greener solutions. Additionally, by monitoring regulatory developments concerning emissions, the company can expedite compliance strategies and avoid penalties or market restrictions. The scanning process also facilitates understanding customer preferences for low-emission and quiet engines, guiding product development to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Evaluation of the Company's External Environment
Briggs & Stratton operates in an environment shaped by diverse external forces, including economic, technological, political, legal, social, and ecological factors. These factors influence the company’s strategic choices and operational effectiveness.
Economically, fluctuations in consumer spending directly affect sales of outdoor power equipment. During economic downturns, consumers tend to cut back on discretionary purchases, impacting Briggs & Stratton’s revenue. Conversely, in economic growth periods, demand for outdoor equipment, such as lawnmowers and snow blowers, fuels sales.
Technologically, advancements in engine efficiency, electric powertrains, and automation are transforming the outdoor equipment industry. Briggs & Stratton faces the challenge of integrating these innovations into its existing product lines to remain competitive. The adoption of electric-powered engines and battery technology is increasingly crucial as consumers demand more environmentally friendly options.
Politically and legally, environmental regulations concerning emissions and fuel standards are tightening globally. Briggs & Stratton must adapt by developing cleaner-burning engines or transitioning to electric solutions to comply and capitalize on eco-conscious market segments.
Socially, consumer preferences are shifting toward sustainable and low-noise outdoor equipment. The company's ability to innovate in these areas influences brand perception and market share.
Ecologically, the company faces pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. Initiatives such as using recyclable materials and designing energy-efficient engines are vital for environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance.
Assessment of the General Environment
The general environment encompasses broad societal forces that indirectly influence Briggs & Stratton. This includes demographic shifts, economic cycles, technological evolutions, geopolitical issues, and ecological concerns.
Demographic trends, such as urbanization and aging populations, influence the types of products demanded. For example, smaller or more automated outdoor equipment might be preferred by elderly consumers, while urban environments may favor electric or compact models.
Economic conditions impact consumer purchasing power and can shift demand. During economic downturns, consumers prioritize essential and cost-effective products, necessitating price-competitive offerings from Briggs & Stratton.
Technological evolution presents opportunities, especially in integrating smart technology into outdoor equipment. The proliferation of IoT (Internet of Things) devices allows for connected products that can provide performance diagnostics and maintenance alerts, creating value for tech-savvy consumers.
Geopolitical issues, such as trade tariffs and supply chain disruptions, can impact the availability and cost of raw materials and components. For Briggs & Stratton, diversifying suppliers and investing in manufacturing resilience are key strategies.
Ecological considerations include climate change and resource depletion, compelling Briggs & Stratton to innovate in sustainable manufacturing practices and eco-friendly product offerings.
Evaluation of the Industry Operating Environment
The industry environment in which Briggs & Stratton operates is characterized by intense competition, technological innovation, and increasing regulatory pressures. The industry is highly competitive, with major players such as Honda, Kohler, and Yamaha, vying for market share.
Innovation and differentiation are essential. The shift toward electric engines is a significant industry trend, compelling traditional engine manufacturers to adapt or risk obsolescence. Briggs & Stratton’s investments in electric and hybrid technology exemplify strategic responses to these industry shifts.
The industry faces stringent emissions regulations, influencing product design and manufacturing processes. Compliance costs are rising, but can also be an opportunity for companies that lead in eco-friendly solutions to establish competitive advantages.
Market dynamics are also influenced by the rise of autonomous and connected devices, which provide opportunities for creating value-added features such as remote monitoring and predictive maintenance, further differentiating products in a crowded market.
Barriers to entry are relatively high due to the need for significant R&D and manufacturing expertise, but sustained innovation and brand reputation can provide sustained advantages.
Overall, the industry environment requires companies like Briggs & Stratton to be agile, innovative, and responsive to regulatory and technological trends to sustain competitive advantage.
Conclusion
Briggs & Stratton can leverage environmental scanning to develop strategies that align with external opportunities and mitigate threats. By continuously evaluating its broad and industry-specific environments, the company can adapt to technological advances, regulatory changes, and shifting consumer preferences. Investing in sustainable and innovative product development while responding proactively to external forces will be critical for maintaining its competitive position in the evolving small engine industry.
References
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- Briggs & Stratton Corporation. (2022). Company Financial and Sustainability Reports. Retrieved from https://www.briggsandstratton.com
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