Competition and Cooperation

After reading the case “Ventures in Salt: Compass Minerals International,” consider strategic moves for this stand-alone firm. Analyze the market and, using specifics from the case study, develop one cooperative and one competitive move. Select the most effective choice and explain why it is the best option. Synthesize a tactic to support the move. How can the tactic be implemented within the scope of the overall strategy? (Hint: Disruptive innovation may be the best way to synthesize a tactic.)

You are strongly encouraged to use the following outline so that your analysis is organized

appropriately:

· 1. Identify both the key issues and the underlying issues. In identifying the issues, you should be able to connect them to the business principles which apply to this situation.

· 2. Discuss the facts which affect these issues. The case may have too much information. In your discussion, you should filter the information and discuss those facts which are pertinent to the issues identified above.

· 3. Discuss your tentative solution to the problem and how you would implement your solution. What actions would you propose to respond to the situation, based on the knowledge you have gained? You should draw on knowledge gained in your readings, experience and coursework to support your response. Be sure to properly cite references in APA format. You should also draw on other references such as business periodicals and relevant journals. Remember that an analysis is more than simply a summary of the Case Study.

· 4. Discuss follow-up and contingency plans. How will the organization know that your proposed solution is working? What should they do if it does not work?

Evaluation Criteria

· • Have you identified the critical issues/problems in the case and analyzed the key facts related to the issues/problems?

· • Have you discussed a tentative solution that addresses the issues/problems and how you would implement your solution?

· • Is information from the textbook and other sources integrated into your analysis appropriately? For all sources, you must provide complete APA citations.

· • Is the paper professionally presented? Remember your audience. It is important to present your information as clearly and succinctly as possible. Do not sacrifice thoroughness for mere brevity.

· • Have you read it over carefully and corrected any grammar and spelling errors?

Case Analysis Rubric

· Description of the Case and Identification of Major Issues

· Connections to Course Readings, Material and Research

· Depth and Scope of Analysis

· Solutions and Strategies

· Writing Clarity and Quality

· APA formatting