This assignment utilizes a case depicting a real-life situation of which you will conduct a detailed case analysis. Thi

This assignment utilizes a case depicting a real-life situation of which you will conduct a detailed case analysis. This will involve reading the provided case, researching the company, identifying a problem/challenge and compiling three to five potential alternatives that could solve the problem. Finally, you will conduct additional research in order to determine which of the alternatives you will recommend, including your rationale and supporting research. 

First, read the case study: “IBM at the Crossroads" found beneath the Unit IV Study Guide on the Unit IV homepage. You will use the Case Analysis Template to complete this assignment. This analysis should include the use of the Online Library to provide supporting documentation as well as the financial statements of the organization. 

It is expected that a minimum of three managerial tools be used including (but not exclusively) political, economic, sociocultural, technological, ecological, and legal (PESTEL), strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT), Porter’s Five Forces, balanced scorecard, gap analysis, root cause analysis and/or McKinsey 7-S Model. These tools are explained within the Unit I and Unit II lessons of this course and could be presented within the analysis in table format. 

In order to successfully complete this case study, you need to review the video and Task Learning Guides (TLGs) located below. This will provide you with the skills to research companies using scholarly research (versus a Google search) and how to research industries/competitors. This is the basis for your external analysis and identification of the problem within the company. This will also provide supporting research within your recommendations. 

Company and Industry Research

Transcript for Company and Industry Research

How to Find Company Information in the Business Source Ultimate Database (TLG)
How to Search for Articles with a Company Focus (TLG)

case study must be at least five pages in length, and must use at least five peer-reviewed academic sources that are no more than 5 years old. Follow APA Style when constructing this assignment, including in-text citations and references for all sources that are used. Please note that no abstract is needed. Utilization of the provided template will guide you through the case analysis process.