Identifying strategic opportunity In the Harrison-Keyes scenario, a new opportunity has arisen in the form of e-books. Figures prove that it is an ever growing market and Harrison-Keyes think of this avenue as a viable option if they are to expand and move out of their current stagnant position. Furthermore, they will also be able to better serve and reach their customers (Matheson, 2006). ‘The identification and establishment of strategic opportunities of e-business for the firm will lead to an understanding of the innovation and its justification for improved business, competitiveness and customer service.

’ (Matheson, 2006). Issues in Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Outsourcing of a business process is a key decision to make. It brings along cost savings and at times the time difference can work to ones advantage if the process is being shared. On the other hand however, communication between the two parties does become a problem due to time differences as is evident in the scenario (Rothamn, 2003). ‘If you don’t shift enough people to work earlier or later in the day, then someone across the world who has a problem won’t have someone to talk to.

Too often, when an engineer at least eight time zones away needs information, no one is in the office and no one can be reached. Instead of round-the-clock work, the work is stopped until the engineer can determine the answer. ’(Rothman, 2003). Resistance to change Whenever change is being brought, there are some elements in a business setting that resist it. Top management needs to step in and allay their fears in order to ensure that the transition is smooth and without roadblocks (Palmer 2004). If this is not done, targets that need to be achieved will face a lot of impediments internally as well as externally.

‘Management support and communications rank as the two most important success factors for changes. Strong committed leadership is critical for making change happen. ’ (Palmer 2004). Selecting the right people. Before venturing into a new project, it is imperative that the right people are assigned to it (refer). If this is not done, the project is at a huge risk of failure from the start. This is evident in this setting where people like Mack with outdated skills required for the project are an integral part of it.

Mack failed to analyze the situation and is now facing problems that will push the projects launch considerably. ‘The changing economic times, workforce demographics, high technology, struggle for market share, and other variables have necessitated the development of strategic staffing practices, which is careful selection and placement of appropriate, highly qualified individuals possessing the experience, skills, and potential required to fulfill the longer term needs and objectives of the organization. ’ (Fombrum et all 1984). Strategic partnerships

If the Harrison-Keyes e-commerce system does not work, they have an option of partnering with established e-commerce networks such as Amazon. com that already specialize in selling e-books. This option can be profitable but has to be carefully negotiated. By forming such a partnership, Harrison-Keyes will be borrowing Amazon’s expertise and brand equity as well as the coverage that they would bring with them.. Strategic partnerships often work to the advantage of both parties and are a good option in markets where competition is tough (Crowther 2004).

‘A partnership is a contract between two or more people (parties) in a joint business who agree to pool their funds and talent and share in profits and losses of the enterprise. ’ ( Crowther 2004).

References

Rothman, J. (2003). 11 Steps to Successful Outsourcing: A Contrarian’sView. Computerworld. com September 15, 2003. Retrieved December 22, 2007, from http://www. computerworld. com/developmenttopics/development/story/0,10801,84847,00. html Matheson, L. (2006).

Identifying the Strategic Opportunities of E Business Innovation.e-articles. info 08/01/2006. Retrieved December 22, 2007, from http://www. e-articles. info/e/a/title/Identifying-the-Strategic-Opportunities-of-E-Business-Innovation/ Palmer, B. (2004). Making Change Work: Practical Tools for Overcoming Human Resistance to Change. pg. 11. Fombrun C. , Tichy N. & Anne M. (1984). Strategic Human Resource Management. pg 69-70. Crowther, J. & Trott, B. (2004). Partnering with Purpose: A Guide to Strategic Partnership Development. pg 3.