1. Introduction
This report will investigate the British retailer Marks and Spencer. It will analyse why decision making, planning and goal setting are important to the organisation. Decision making is a process of identifying problems and opportunities then resolving them. Mission planning is the way that organisations aim to achieve their goals. All organisations have goals, these are the reasons that the company exists. Boddy (2005:178) states “A goal is a desired future state for an organisational unit. Goals provide a set of detailed objectives for an organisation’s desired outcomes”. Within this report there is a brief outline and history of Marks and Spencer. It will then look at the missions and goals of the organisation and will go on to critically evaluate planning and decision making processes that the organisation could be using. To conclude it will summarise the findings.
2. Introduction to Marks and Spencer
British retailer Marks and Spencer (M&S) is a private limited company, their main aim is of a commercial nature. It is one of the most iconic and widely recognised chain stores in the UK. They have 520 stores located throughout the UK and 240 stores worldwide. It is the largest clothing retailer in the country. (Source: M&S website)
2.1 Key environmental factors impacting on M&S
This part of the report will highlight the problems within the external environment that affect Marks and Spencer. Before planning and decision making can take place an organisation must be aware of these issues. The key factors that impact upon all organisations are Political, Economic, Social and Technological. These ...