CIPS L6M2 Question Answer
Discuss how XYZ, a global beverage manufacturing organisation, could use the Boston Consultancy Group Framework to impact upon strategic decision making
Introduction
TheBoston Consulting Group (BCG) Matrixis a strategic tool used by organizations to analyze their product portfolio and allocate resources effectively. It classifies products intofour categories—Stars, Cash Cows, Question Marks, and Dogs—based onmarket growth rateandmarket share.
As aglobal beverage manufacturing organization, XYZ can use theBCG Matrixto evaluate its product range, identify growth opportunities, and make informed strategic decisions.
1. Explanation of the BCG Matrix
TheBCG Matrixis divided into four quadrants:
Example for XYZ:
Star:A fast-growingenergy drinkbrand in emerging markets.
Cash Cow:A flagshipcola productwith stable market demand.
Question Mark:A newfunctional health drinkwith uncertain market acceptance.
Dog:An underperformingdiet soda variantwith declining sales.
2. How XYZ Can Use the BCG Matrix for Strategic Decision-Making
XYZ can use the BCG Matrix to makeresource allocation and investment decisionsbased on product performance.
3. Advantages of Using the BCG Matrix for XYZ
✅Resource Allocation– Helps prioritize investment in high-growth products.
✅Strategic Focus– Identifies which products to grow, maintain, or phase out.
✅Market Adaptation– Helps XYZ adjust its beverage portfolio based on changing consumer trends.
????Example:IfXYZ’s energy drink(a Star) is experiencing high growth, more marketing and production investment may be justified.
4. Limitations of the BCG Matrix
❌Ignores Market Competition– A product may have a high market share, but competition could still impact profitability.
❌Simplistic Assumptions– Not all products neatly fit into one category; market dynamics are complex.
❌Focuses on Growth and Share Only– It does not consider external factors likeprofit margins, customer loyalty, or brand strength.
????Example:AQuestion Mark productmight have potential, but if consumer preferences shift, it may never become a Star.
5. Application of the BCG Matrix in the Beverage Industry
XYZ can apply theBCG Matrixby reviewing itsentire product portfolioacross different geographic markets.
Conclusion
TheBCG Matrixis a valuable strategic tool for XYZ to analyze itsproduct portfolio, prioritize investments, and make informedmarket-based decisions. However, it should be used alongside otherstrategic models(e.g.,PESTLE, VRIO) to ensure acomprehensive business strategy.