L6M2 無料問題集「CIPS Global Commercial Strategy」

Causes of Resistance to Change & Strategies to Manage It - XYZ Case Study When XYZ, a UK-based toilet paper manufacturer, implements strategic changes such as staff restructuring and automation, employees may resist change due to uncertainty, fear, and disruption to their work environment. Below are four key causes of resistance and how the CEO can manage them effectively.
Causes of Resistance to Change
1. Fear of Job Loss
Cause: Employees may fear that automation will replace their jobs, leading to layoffs. Factory workers and administrative staff may feel particularly vulnerable.
Example: If machines take over manual processes like paper cutting and packaging, employees may see this as a direct threat to their roles.
2. Lack of Communication and Transparency
Cause: When management fails to communicate the reasons for change, employees may speculate and assume the worst. Unclear messages lead to distrust.
Example: If XYZ's CEO announces restructuring without explaining why and how jobs will be affected, employees may feel insecure and disengaged.
3. Loss of Skills and Status
Cause: Some employees, especially long-serving workers, may feel their skills are becoming obsolete due to automation. Managers may resist change if they fear losing power in a new structure.
Example: A production line supervisor may oppose automation because it reduces the need for human oversight, making their role seem redundant.
4. Organizational Culture and Habit
Cause: Employees are accustomed to specific ways of working, and sudden changes disrupt routine. Resistance occurs when changes challenge existing work culture.
Example: XYZ's employees may have always used manual processes, and shifting to AI-driven production feels unfamiliar and uncomfortable.
How the CEO Can Manage Resistance to Change
1. Effective Communication Strategy
✅ What to do?
Clearly explain why the changes are necessary (e.g., cost efficiency, competitiveness).
Use town hall meetings, emails, and team discussions to provide updates.
Address employee concerns directly to reduce uncertainty.
Example: The CEO can send monthly updates on automation, ensuring transparency and reducing fear.
2. Employee Involvement and Engagement
✅ What to do?
Involve staff in decision-making to give them a sense of control.
Create cross-functional teams to gather employee input.
Provide opportunities for feedback and discussion.
Example: XYZ can form a worker's advisory panel to gather employee concerns and address them proactively.
3. Training and Upskilling Programs
✅ What to do?
Offer training programs to help employees adapt to new technologies.
Provide reskilling opportunities for employees whose jobs are affected.
Reassure staff that automation will create new roles, not just eliminate jobs.
Example: XYZ can introduce digital skills training for workers transitioning from manual processes to automated systems.
4. Change Champions & Support Systems
✅ What to do?
Appoint change champions (influential employees) to advocate for change.
Offer emotional and psychological support (e.g., HR consultations, career guidance).
Recognize and reward employees who embrace change.
Example: XYZ can offer bonuses or promotions to employees who successfully transition into new roles.
Conclusion
Resistance to change is natural, but the CEO of XYZ can minimize resistance through clear communication, employee involvement, training, and structured support. By managing resistance effectively, XYZ can ensure a smooth transition while maintaining employee morale and operational efficiency.

Industry and Product Lifecycle Stages & Their Impact on Business Strategy Introduction The Industry and Product Lifecycle Model describes how industries and products evolve over time, affecting market demand, competition, and profitability. The model consists of four stages-Introduction, Growth, Maturity, and Decline-each influencing a company's strategic decisions on marketing, pricing, production, and investment.
Companies must adapt their business strategy at each stage to remain competitive, maximize profitability, and sustain long-term growth.
1. Four Stages of the Industry and Product Lifecycle

High R&D and marketing costs
Limited competition
Low sales volume | - High investment in product development & market awareness Skimming or penetration pricing strategy Target early adopters & build brand identity | | 2. Growth Stage | - Rising sales & market demand More competitors enter the market Profitability increases Scaling production | - Expand distribution & market reach Enhance product differentiation Increase advertising & brand positioning Invest in supply chain efficiency | | 3. Maturity Stage | - Market saturation Slower growth rate Intense price competition Peak profitability | - Cost-cutting & process optimization Focus on customer loyalty & retention Introduce new features & upgrades Expand into new markets | | 4. Decline Stage | - Market demand falls Profit margins shrink Product obsolescence Competitor innovations take over | - Discontinue or rebrand the product Shift to new technology or innovation Reduce production costs or exit the market |
2. Impact of Lifecycle Stages on Business Strategy
1. Introduction Stage - Market Entry Strategy
Companies must invest heavily in R&D, marketing, and infrastructure to introduce a new product or enter a new industry.
✅ Strategic Decisions:
High R&D spending on innovation and patent protection.
Pricing strategy: Either premium pricing (skimming) for high-end customers or low pricing (penetration) to gain market share quickly.
Target early adopters and niche customers to build brand awareness.
Example: Tesla's Model S launch in 2012 targeted early EV adopters, using a high-end pricing strategy to attract premium buyers.
2. Growth Stage - Expanding Market Share
As demand increases, companies must scale operations, expand marketing, and stay ahead of competitors.
✅ Strategic Decisions:
Expand into new geographic markets and increase production capacity.
Invest in advertising and promotional campaigns to establish brand dominance.
Improve product differentiation (e.g., adding new features, improving design).
Example: Apple's iPhone growth strategy focused on expanding into emerging markets while continuously innovating hardware and software.
3. Maturity Stage - Maintaining Competitive Advantage
Market saturation leads to slower growth, intense competition, and price wars. Companies must focus on cost efficiency and customer loyalty.
✅ Strategic Decisions:
Implement cost-cutting measures and optimize supply chains.
Shift focus to brand loyalty programs and after-sales services.
Introduce product extensions, upgrades, or new models to sustain demand.
Example: Coca-Cola continues to dominate the mature soft drink market by launching new flavors (e.g., Coke Zero) and aggressive brand marketing.
4. Decline Stage - Managing Product or Market Exit
When demand declines due to changing consumer preferences or technological advancements, companies must decide whether to exit or reinvent the product.
✅ Strategic Decisions:
Discontinue the product and shift focus to more profitable ventures.
Rebrand or reposition the product to attract a niche market.
Diversify into new product categories to stay relevant.
Example: Blockbuster failed to adapt in the decline stage, whereas Netflix transitioned from DVDs to streaming, ensuring survival.
Conclusion
The Industry and Product Lifecycle Model guides companies in making strategic decisions at each stage. To succeed, businesses must adapt their pricing, marketing, investment, and innovation strategies accordingly. Organizations that fail to adjust (e.g., Kodak in digital photography) risk losing market relevance, while those that innovate and diversify (e.g., Netflix, Tesla) achieve long-term sustainability.

Comparison of Currency Options, Currency Swaps, and Spot Transactions in Foreign Exchange Introduction In international trade and finance, companies dealing with foreign currencies use various financial instruments to manage exchange rate risks. The three main instruments are:
Currency Options - Provide the right (but not obligation) to exchange currency at a fixed rate in the future.
Currency Swaps - A contract to exchange currency flows over a set period.
Spot Transactions - A simple immediate currency exchange based on the current market rate.
While spot transactions offer simplicity, currency options and swaps provide better risk management and flexibility.
1. Currency Options (Flexible Risk Management Tool)
Definition
A currency option gives the holder the right, but not the obligation, to exchange a currency at a predetermined rate on or before a specific date.
✅ Types of Options:
Call Option - Right to buy a currency at a fixed rate.
Put Option - Right to sell a currency at a fixed rate.
Example: A UK importer buying goods from the US purchases a GBP/USD call option to protect against an increase in the exchange rate.
Advantages of Currency Options Over Spot Transactions
✔ Risk Protection - Protects against adverse currency movements while maintaining upside potential.
✔ Flexibility - No obligation to execute the transaction if the exchange rate is favorable.
✔ Ideal for Hedging Future Payments - Useful for businesses with uncertain future cash flows in foreign currencies.
❌ Disadvantages
✖ Premium Costs - Buying options requires upfront payment.
✖ Complexity - More sophisticated than spot transactions.
Best for: Businesses managing currency risk with unpredictable payment schedules.
2. Currency Swaps (Long-Term Hedging Solution)
Definition
A currency swap is a contract between two parties to exchange currency flows over a set period at a predetermined rate.
✅ How It Works:
Companies exchange principal and interest payments in different currencies.
Used to secure long-term financing in foreign markets.
Example: A UK company with a loan in USD enters a GBP/USD swap with a US firm to exchange interest payments, reducing exchange rate risk.
Advantages of Currency Swaps Over Spot Transactions
✔ Long-Term Stability - Protects businesses from long-term exchange rate fluctuations.
✔ Cost Efficiency - Often cheaper than converting currency via spot transactions repeatedly.
✔ Reduces Interest Rate Risk - Useful for companies with foreign currency debt obligations.
❌ Disadvantages
✖ Less Flexible Than Options - The swap contract must be followed as agreed.
✖ Counterparty Risk - Dependent on the financial stability of the other party.
Best for: Companies with long-term foreign currency liabilities (e.g., loans, international contracts).
3. Spot Transactions (Immediate Currency Exchange, No Hedging)
Definition
A spot transaction is a straightforward exchange of currency at the current market rate for immediate settlement (usually within two days).
Example: A European exporter receiving USD payment converts it immediately into EUR using a spot transaction.
Limitations Compared to Derivatives (Options & Swaps)
❌ No Risk Protection - Subject to daily exchange rate volatility.
❌ Not Suitable for Future Obligations - Cannot hedge against expected payments or receipts.
❌ Higher Costs for Frequent Transactions - Repeated spot trades incur forex fees and spread costs.
Best for: Small businesses or one-time transactions with no currency risk concerns.
4. Comparison Table: Currency Options, Swaps, and Spot Transactions

Key Takeaway:
Currency options offer flexibility and protection but come at a cost.
Currency swaps provide long-term stability for large corporations.
Spot transactions are simple but expose businesses to market fluctuations.
5. Conclusion & Best Recommendation
For businesses engaged in international trade, investments, or loans, using currency options and swaps is superior to spot transactions, as they provide:
✅ Protection from exchange rate volatility.
✅ Cost efficiency for large or recurring transactions.
✅ Better financial planning and risk management.
Best Choice Based on Business Needs:
For short-term flexibility → Currency Options
For long-term contracts or loans → Currency Swaps
For one-time currency exchange → Spot Transactions
By selecting the right derivative instrument, businesses can reduce foreign exchange risk and improve financial stability.

Comparison of Aggressive vs. Conservative Business Funding Approaches
Introduction
Businesses adopt different funding strategies based on their risk tolerance, growth objectives, and financial stability. Two contrasting approaches to business funding are:
Aggressive Funding Approach - Focuses on high-risk, high-reward strategies with more debt and short-term financing to fuel rapid expansion.
Conservative Funding Approach - Emphasizes financial stability, risk aversion, and long-term security, often relying on equity and retained earnings to fund operations.
Each approach has advantages and risks, influencing a company's liquidity, cost of capital, and financial sustainability.
1. Aggressive Business Funding Approach (High Risk, High Reward)
Definition
An aggressive funding strategy involves maximizing short-term debt, high leverage, and minimal cash reserves to accelerate growth and expansion.
✅ Key Characteristics:
Relies heavily on debt financing (bank loans, corporate bonds, short-term credit).
Prioritizes rapid growth and high returns over financial security.
Uses minimal equity financing to avoid ownership dilution.
Maintains low cash reserves, assuming cash flows will cover liabilities.
Example:
Startups and tech firms (e.g., Tesla, Uber, Amazon in early years) often borrow aggressively to scale rapidly.
Private equity firms fund acquisitions using high leverage to maximize returns.
Advantages of Aggressive Funding
✔ Faster business expansion - Capital is readily available for investments.
✔ Higher return potential - More funds are allocated to revenue-generating activities.
✔ Lower equity dilution - Existing shareholders maintain control as funding is primarily debt-based.
Disadvantages of Aggressive Funding
❌ High financial risk - Heavy debt increases vulnerability to economic downturns.
❌ Liquidity problems - Low cash reserves can cause issues during slow revenue periods.
❌ Higher borrowing costs - Lenders charge higher interest due to the risk involved.
Best for: Fast-growing companies, high-risk industries, and businesses with predictable cash flows.
2. Conservative Business Funding Approach (Low Risk, Long-Term Stability) Definition A conservative funding strategy focuses on low debt levels, high liquidity, and long-term financing to ensure financial stability and steady growth.
✅ Key Characteristics:
Uses retained earnings and equity financing over debt.
Minimizes reliance on short-term credit to avoid financial pressure.
Maintains high cash reserves for financial security.
Focuses on steady, sustainable growth rather than rapid expansion.
Example:
Berkshire Hathaway (Warren Buffett's company) follows a conservative funding model, relying on retained earnings rather than excessive debt.
Family-owned businesses often prioritize financial stability over rapid expansion.
Advantages of Conservative Funding
✔ Lower financial risk - Reduces dependence on external creditors.
✔ Stable cash flow - Ensures business continuity during economic downturns.
✔ Better credit rating - Stronger financial health allows for lower borrowing costs if needed.
Disadvantages of Conservative Funding
❌ Slower business growth - Limited access to capital can restrict expansion.
❌ Missed market opportunities - Competitors with aggressive funding may outpace the company.
❌ Higher cost of capital - Equity financing (selling shares) dilutes ownership and reduces profit per share.
Best for: Established businesses, risk-averse industries, and companies focusing on long-term sustainability.
3. Comparison Table: Aggressive vs. Conservative Funding Approaches

Key Takeaway: The best funding approach depends on industry, company stage, and risk appetite.
4. Which Approach Should a Business Use?
✅ Aggressive Approach is Ideal For:
Startups & High-Growth Companies - Need fast capital to capture market share.
Businesses in Competitive Markets - Companies that must outpace rivals through aggressive expansion.
Private Equity & Leveraged Buyouts - Maximizing returns through high debt strategies.
✅ Conservative Approach is Ideal For:
Mature & Stable Businesses - Companies prioritizing steady revenue and financial security.
Family-Owned Enterprises - Owners prefer low debt and long-term growth.
Risk-Averse Industries - Businesses in essential goods/services sectors where stability is more important than rapid expansion.
Hybrid Approach: The Best of Both Worlds?
Many businesses use a combination of both approaches, leveraging debt for growth while maintaining financial stability through retained earnings and equity.
Example:
Apple used a conservative strategy in its early years but adopted aggressive funding for global expansion post-2010.
5. Conclusion
The choice between aggressive and conservative funding depends on a company's growth goals, financial risk tolerance, and industry conditions.
✅ Aggressive funding maximizes short-term growth but increases financial risk.
✅ Conservative funding ensures stability but limits expansion speed.
✅ Most companies use a hybrid model to balance growth and financial security.
Understanding these approaches helps businesses optimize capital structure, manage risk, and align financing with strategic objectives.