Strategic Planning and Operational Efficiency in Tesco

The assignment requires students to investigate strategic planning and operational efficiency in Tesco, a retail transnational corporation. It involves a questionnaire with 11 questions and semi-structured interviews to understand the factors that influence effective planning, the role of human resource planning, risk management planning, and market research in improving performance, and how planning impacts operational efficiency and profitability.

DISSERTATION
(Analyze the Significance of Planning Activities
within Retail Sector: A Study on Tesco)

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................1
Background of the study..............................................................................................................1
Aim and Objectives.....................................................................................................................2
Research Questions......................................................................................................................3
Problem statement.......................................................................................................................3
Rationale of study........................................................................................................................3
Significance of study...................................................................................................................3
Research specification (appropriate research methods)..............................................................4
Research Gap...............................................................................................................................4
Structure of research paper..........................................................................................................4
Summary......................................................................................................................................5
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW.........................................................................................6
Introduction..................................................................................................................................6
Planning activities in retail firms.................................................................................................6
Factors that impact on the planning activities of business..........................................................9
Relationship between planning activities and business performance........................................11
Influence of planning activities on operational and financial performance of firm..................12
Summary....................................................................................................................................14
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY...........................................................................15
Introduction................................................................................................................................15
Research philosophy..................................................................................................................15
Research design.........................................................................................................................16
Research approach.....................................................................................................................17
Research strategy.......................................................................................................................18
Data collection...........................................................................................................................19
Sampling....................................................................................................................................20
Data analysis..............................................................................................................................21
Ethical considerations................................................................................................................22
Reliability and validity..............................................................................................................23
Research method limitation.......................................................................................................23

Summary....................................................................................................................................23
CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS................................................................................................24
Introduction................................................................................................................................24
Analysis.....................................................................................................................................24
Summary....................................................................................................................................37
CHAPTER 5: DISCUSSION........................................................................................................38
Discussion..................................................................................................................................38
Summary....................................................................................................................................41
CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS...................................................42
Conclusion.................................................................................................................................42
Recommendations......................................................................................................................43
Reflection...................................................................................................................................44
Areas for further study...............................................................................................................44
Research limitations...................................................................................................................44
REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................46
APPENDIX....................................................................................................................................49
Questionnaire.............................................................................................................................49
Semi- structured Interview........................................................................................................50

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
Background of the study
Planning can be defined as a set of activities or processes that supports business units in
accomplishing their goal (Keep, 2014). Planning is an essential part of organization that helps in
identifying errors and finding appropriate solutions to resolve such problems. It is the
responsibility of higher authorities to review current operations of enterprise and identify overall
requirement of improvements (Fernandes and Chamusca, 2014). Clear goal and vision are the
key elements of planning because both these aspects aid in determining necessary steps that can
assist firm in meeting its organizational objectives.
Overview of company
Tesco is the leading retail firm in UK and third largest retail brand worldwide. Company
has employed more than 440000 employees who are serving mass audience across the world.
Millions of consumers come to retail shop of Tesco every week. Most of the people buy products
from online store of company. Entity offers them attractive discounts and provides high quality
goods at affordable prices (Factors that Influence Effective Strategic Planning Process in
Organizations, 2016). This has made Tesco an international brand and now, firm has many
stores in other locations as well. It is generating high revenues in the retail market and has gained
competitive advantage as well. In the year 2017 Tesco generated profit of 55.9 billion. Net
income in the same year was 54 million. Entity has made many joint ventures with other firms.
Company offers high quality retailing products to its consumers that helps the firm in satisfying
its consumers and retaining them in business for longer duration. Market share of the firm is
rapidly growing. Tesco is rapidly developing is stores in international market. It also engaged in
e-commerce business (Tesco company profile, 2004). This supports the firm in increasing its
profit to great extent.
Efficient planning process is the key element of success of entity. It is the process that
ensures effective utilization of resources (Keep, 2014). All large, small and medium sized firms
have different resources. Planning process assists top management in making effective decision
through which they can utilize their resources well and control the overall wastage. It supports in
maximization of productivity of business unit and gives them chance to gain more profit in the
market. Managing risk is another advantage of planning process (IšoraItė, 2014). Each enterprise
has to face uncertainties. In such condition, sometimes, they may get failed to run their business
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effectively. Ineffective allocation of resources, economic changes, operational errors, etc. are
many risks that can spoil the overall performance of organization.
Planning promotes team building spirit and managers become able to retain skilled
employees at workplace for longer duration. Market planning supports in analyzing internal and
external situation of firm. Furthermore, financial planning assists in utilizing resources well and
minimizing unnecessary expenditures of company (Environmental Factors in Strategic
Planning, 2018). Human resource planning is the most important part of retail firm. This helps in
identifying the needs of staff members and filling post by hiring skilled people in organization.
Inventory planning process is the set of activities that allows business in managing their stock
well and decreasing issues related to over stock or shortage of material.
Present research will analyze the importance of planning activities within retail sector. It
will examine various factors that can impact on planning process of the business unit. Research
paper will review the literatures of other authors who have prepared their article on same topic.
This will help researcher in developing understanding about the topic. In addition, it will explain
various research methods that are suitable for this dissertation. Study will analyze data and
interpret the findings (Williams, 2017)
Aim and Objectives
Aim
“To analyze the significance of planning activities within retail sector: A study on Tesco”
Objectives
 To examine various planning activities that are made by retail firms in order to sustain in
the market for longer duration
 To identify the factors that impact on planning activities of business
 To explain the relationship between planning activities and performance of Tesco
 To analyze the influence of planning activities on operational and financial performance
of Tesco
 To suggest the ways that can help retail firm in making effective planning for their
growth
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Research Questions
 What are the various planning activities made by retail firms in order to sustain in market
for longer duration?
 What are the factors that impact on planning activities of business?
 How planning activities and performance of Tesco are interrelated?
 How planning can influence the operational and financial performance of Tesco?
Problem statement
The main problem is identified in Tesco that a sale of the company is continuously
declining. Entity is facing huge loss and now it has become difficult for Tesco to sustain in
market for longer duration. Company requires improving planning activities and having to
implement these planning in workplace practices so that it can improve its performance.
Rationale of study
The main reason of conducting this research is that there are many retail firms which are
unable to run their business in an effective manner. Small retailers are facing huge loss because
of improper planning. It is essential to identify root cause of these issues and identify importance
of planning process for the growth of retail industry (Keep, 2014). Researcher has worked in
retail firm for several years and thus, individual is well aware with the fact that improper
planning can create consequences for the business unit. This is an interesting topic and
individuals can conduct effective research on the subject matter (Bryson, 2018). Furthermore,
there is huge data available on the same topic. This can support scholar in gathering in-depth
information about topic and developing knowledge about the importance of planning activities in
retail organization.
Significance of study
This study will be beneficial for the researcher in developing their understanding about
importance of planning process in retail sector. It will help other scholars in conducting research
on same topic in the future. They will get brief idea about subject which will aid them in
preparing an effective paper. Furthermore, it will be beneficial for retail firms in identifying
issues that they are facing and essential planning activities that can help them in enhancing their
revenues to a great extent (Wolf and Floyd, 2017). This will also be beneficial for small size
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retail organization in making effective plan for the improvements and enhancing their revenues
to a great extent.
Research specification (appropriate research methods)
Research methodology plays a significant role in dissertation. It helps the researcher in
selecting appropriate method through which individual can conduct research in an efficient
manner. Current research will take support of interpretivism philosophy. This will be beneficial
in involving theories and models related to planning activities. Furthermore, scholar will apply
descriptive design. This would support in describing elements in an effective manner and
answering research questions. Researcher will use primary and secondary; both data collection
sources. Individual will apply semi structured interview technique in order to gather primary
information about the importance of planning activities in retail sector. On the other hand, person
will also take support of books, journals, internet articles, etc. that can help the individual in
developing their understanding about topic. Data analysis is the most important part of
dissertation. It is essential for the investigator to analyze data in an appropriate manner so that
actual findings can be presented well. Researcher will apply thematic analysis method that will
be suitable and help in answering research questions in an efficient manner (Kazemi and
Szmerekovsky, 2015).
Research Gap
In the present dissertation scholar has not included statistical numbers and calculations for
finding actual facts. Specific planning activity of organization have not been taken into
consideration, the study has concentrated on overall planning activities and its significance for
business.
Structure of research paper
The entire dissertation will be divided into separate chapters. Structure of this study is
described as below:
Chapter 1: Introduction: This would be an initial part of this study in which scholar will give
brief overview of topic. Individual will frame aim and objectives. Furthermore, rationale and
significance of the study will be described in this section.
Chapter 2: Literature Review: This would be the next part in which scholar will review other
author’s literatures. These articles will be related to importance of planning activities in the retail
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sector. This will develop understanding of scholar and individual will be able to carry out
research in an effective manner.
Chapter 3: Research Methodology: This would be the next part in which scholar will select
various methods that can help individuals in conducting investigation in an effective manner.
This will include philosophy, design, approach, data collection tools, data analysis and ethical
considerations.
Chapter 4: Data Analysis: In this section, researcher will analyze data by taking support of
thematic analysis technique. Individuals will present graphs and charts in order to present the
data properly.
Chapter 5: Conclusion and Recommendations: This would be the last part of this dissertation
in which scholar will conclude entire study and will give necessary justification for improving
planning activities in retail sector.
Summary
Above chapter can be concluded as that planning plays significant role in business unit, this
helps the firm in minimizing risks and conducting operations in smooth manner. Use of
qualitative strategy would be more suitable for the present dissertation and will help in finding
accurate answers.
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CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW
Introduction
Literature review can be defined as scholarly papers that have necessary information
about the current topic. Researcher has to review these articles in order to address research
questions. These are secondary data collection sources that enhance understanding of researcher
about the topic (Factors That Influence Effective Strategic Planning Process in Organizations,
2016). Investigator has to evaluate the data available on these literatures. It gives theoretical
details and helps researcher in determining the nature of entire study. This chapter will include
books and journals related to significance of planning activities in the retail sector (Shen and
et.al, 2014).
Contribution of authors
In order to critically review the literatures researcher has read other authors articles. All
these articles were relevant to the subject matter of significance of planning activities.
Arguments have been made in positive and negative both aspects. This has supported in actually
realizing importance of planning for organization. Some literatures were not based on significane
but these were reflecting the impact of planning on the firm.
Planning activities in retail firms
As per the views of Channon and Jalland, (2016) marketing planning is considered as one
of the effective planning activities that support the managers in identifying internal and external
situation of business unit in an effective manner. Each firm has its own strengths and
weaknesses. Apart from this, there are many other external factors that affect the overall
operations of organization (Ramanathan, Subramanian and Parrott, 2017). Marketing planning
helps entity in identifying real facts about company and identifying issue in firm. By this way,
managers can plan to resolve such issue and effective utilization of strong point of the
organization. Retail firms have to deal with customers daily. It is very important to provide them
goods and services as per their requirements. Effective marketing planning helps in conveying
the right message to consumers at right time (Hübner, Wollenburg and Holzapfel, 2016). This
makes them able to gather information about the needs of people. Entity can make changes in its
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operational activities in order to provide satisfactory products to the buyers (Environmental
Factors in Strategic Planning, 2018).
As per the view of Channon and Jalland, (2016) planning is considered as essential tool
that supports business in identifying risk and making effective strategies through which entity
can grow well. In the absence of efficient planning firm cannot identify its opportunities and
threats in the external business environment. For example Tesco always makes plan to open new
stores in other nation. This strategy or planning helps the firm in increasing its market share and
spreading its brand image globally.
De Baerdemaeker and Bruggeman, (2015) argued that lack of financial resources and
poor market knowledge can affect the overall operational efficiency of business unit to a great
extent. Effective marketing plan assists in analyzing the changes in needs of target audience and
gaining competitive advantage as well. Thus, management can prepare effective marketing
message that can influence the mind of people. As per the views of Bryson, (2018) financial
planning activities are considered as the most essential planning process. It is very important for
the organization to utilize their financial resources properly so that entity can generate good
revenues (Factors That Influence Effective Strategic Planning Process in Organizations, 2016).
Article explains that financial planning is the key process of success of any brand. If
management pays more attention on its financial resources, sales, profitability, cost, etc. It would
be beneficial in order to raise the revenues of company. By making effective plan to enhance
sales of business unit, retail firm can grow well and earn more profit. Effective financial plan
supports in identifying the unnecessary cost related to operational activities. By this way,
management can make effective action to have control over this expenditure and saving money
(McDonald and Wilson, 2016).
According to IšoraItė, (2014) employee retention is one of the short term goals of
retailers. In the high competitive era, there are many big organizations which are offering high
salaries to staff members. In such condition, people are leaving their job and moving towards
these firms which are providing good wages. This has created big trouble for the enterprise
because they lose their talented people and they have to spend huge money in order to recruit
new workers. Human resource planning plays a significant role in business unit HR manager is
responsible to hire skilled people and retain them at workplace for longer duration. They have to
ensure the gap between required staff and actual people. They make strategies through which
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they can meet with this gap. Sometimes, human resource team has to arrange training and
development programs for the growth of its employees. This helps in enhancing the skills of
people and improving their performance (Environmental Factors in Strategic Planning, 2018).
Effective planning in order to manage employees at workplace is helpful in improving overall
performance of company in the market. This is also beneficial in order to gain the competitive
advantage (Ramanathan, Subramanian and Parrott, 2017).
According to Channon and Jalland, (2016) Planning activities are unable to minimize risk
because there are many external factors that cannot be avoided. For example Tesco had to face
huge complications when economic condition of UK got changed. Though entity has planned to
provide goods to consumers at lower rate for increasing its sales but due to changes in economic
condition this planning did not give desired results.
Fernandes and Chamusca, (2014) stated that performance review is an essential part of
human resource management. HR manager has to plan to review the overall performance of
workers. On the basis of their performance, company offers rewards and recognition to them.
This planning can be beneficial in motivating people and making them positive towards the
brand. By this way, these persons perform well and they deal with consumers effectively.
Appropriate planning activities are helpful in managing the people well and improving
workplace environment. This is the way that can support in increasing productivity and
profitability of retailers. Bryson, (2018) argued that more than 37% retailers are engaged in
making high level operational planning. This assists in reviewing the existing performance and
making changes for gaining positive results (Factors That Influence Effective Strategic Planning
Process in Organizations, 2016).
As per the views of Wolf and Floyd, (2017) inventory planning activity plays a
significant role in the overall success of retail firm. Retail organizations have to provide
necessary items that are needed by consumers. In such condition, if they do not have managed
their inventory well then it would be difficult for them to provide goods to buyers at appropriate
time. This is an essential activity because if entity gets failed to manage its inventory well then it
might create issue of over stock. This can enhance the financial burden on an organization.
Retail industry is facing the main issue that many a times, people do not get products as per their
requirements. Many firms have limited stock that makes the buyers negative. In such condition,
they move towards other brands (Environmental Factors in Strategic Planning, 2018). For
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example: Tesco is the leading retail firm that makes an effective plan for managing its inventory
well. It identifies the basic needs of consumers and accordingly, it keep all goods in its retail
stores that is why consumers get all kinds of grocery products in its physical outlets.
Factors that impact on the planning activities of business
According to Channon and Jalland, (2016) there are many factors that create difficulty for
organization in making effective plan and accomplishing the business goals. One of the most
essential elements is economic component. This is the major factor that influences buying
behavior of the consumers. If economic condition of country is good and people have adequate
income sources then they will take more interest in spending their money but if they have limited
financial resources and have no employment opportunities then in such condition, they always
try to save their money. If company makes plan to enhance the price of its products but if
economic condition gets changed then entity will have to make changes in its planning (Lee,
2016). If there is economic slowdown then entity will not be able to offer attractive incentives to
its employees. This may put direct impact on planning activities because the people will feel
unhappy and they will leave their job soon. Channon and Jalland, (2016) argued that socio-
culture elements are the major components that influence planning activities of business unit.
Each person has different needs and it is the responsibility of entity to offer them such products
that can meet with their requirements (Factors That Influence Effective Strategic Planning
Process in Organizations, 2016). If retail firm offers same products to all consumers then entity
will not be able to satisfy its consumers. This may negatively impact the operational performance
of business unit to a great extent.
De Baerdemaeker and Bruggeman, (2015) argued that financial resources is considered as
one of the major element that impact on entire planning activities. In the year 2010 Tesco has
faced declining sales issue. In such condition it was unable to make changes in existing plan or
implement any new plan. This was creating problem for the business unit. It was not having
adequate additional resources so that it can make modification in its existing practices.
As per the views of Kazemi and Szmerekovsky, (2015) legal factor is considered as the
most influencing element that can affect overall planning activities of enterprise. Each firm
makes marketing plan by looking at the regulations. It is essential to make marketing message as
per the legal framework. Company cannot circulate any message which is against the law. If
entity makes strategy and government makes changes in existing rules, then it might create issue
9

for the business in implementing this plan. In such condition, they will have to make changes in
entire planning process so that firm can have control over the cost. Bryson, (2018) argued that
environmental factors are essential key components that may put their impact on entire planning
activities of the firm. If activities of business are impacting environment in a negative manner
then it might create problem for the firm. Because in such condition, people will not buy
products of company and this will spoil the image of brand to a great extent (Environmental
Factors in Strategic Planning, 2018).
As per the views of De Baerdemaeker and Bruggeman, (2015) leadership plays a
significant role in the firm. If leader guides people well and motivates them then these people
can perform well. Leaders are the key players of organization; they guide people well and lead
them in such a manner that they can perform their duties properly. If leaders are unable to
manage employees well then company might lose its skilled people. By this way, it will get
failed to get innovative ideas. This is the main issue due to which it might get failed to make an
effective plan. It is very important to have a strong relationship between employees and
employer. Most of the companies involve their staff members in decision making process
(Impact of Operational Planning on Small Business Retail Performance, 1994). This is the
process that encourages employees and make them loyal towards brand. If entity gets failed to
motivate workers then these people will not share their views with management. In such
condition, company may get failed to identify needs of consumers and it would get failed to plan
for making changes at the workplace (Hübner, Wollenburg and Holzapfel, 2016).
According to IšoraItė, (2014) culture is the most important part of firm; positive culture
creates a healthy workplace environment. It supports the entity in managing their operations well
and retaining skilled people in organization for longer duration. If culture is not good then
management will not be able to plan to manage people and financial resources as well. Human
resource planning majorly depends upon leadership and culture of enterprise. If entity is unable
to manage these aspects then it can create difficulty in making effective plan for the growth of
entity. Kazemi and Szmerekovsky, (2015) stated that competitor’s strategies are major factors
that influence planning activities of the firm. Retail sector is facing high competition. In such
condition, firms have to make an effective plan so that it can sustain in such competitive
environment for longer duration (Factors That Influence Effective Strategic Planning Process In
Organizations, 2016).
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Relationship between planning activities and business performance
As per the views of Sadun, (2015) there is a strong relationship in between planning
activities and business performance. If company has made effective strategic planning then it can
assist in improving the overall performance of operations. Effective planning helps in identifying
the improvement areas and making changes accordingly. For example: if new technology is
coming to the market then it becomes essential for the retail firm to implement these techniques
at workplace. But if company has not made effective financial plan then it would be difficult to
make changes in existing technologies because it might increase overall cost of the organization.
In such type of situations, it would be difficult for the firm to sustain in market for longer
duration. Reynolds, (2014) argued that planning process and overall performance of the entity
are not interrelated. Government can make changes in its policies anytime. These changes can be
assumed by the marketers (Environmental Factors in Strategic Planning, 2018). It is difficult for
the manager to make plan for future alterations. These are sudden changes and if planning has
been made then also, management will have to make modifications in its development strategy.
According to Lee, (2016) company can make plan to give discounts to consumers but if
economic condition gets changed then in such condition, this planning will not be worthwhile. In
this situation, retail firm will have to make changes in its marketing plan because in crucial time,
entity will not be able to afford offering such discounts. That is the reason; there is no significant
relationship in between planning activities and business performance of retail firms. Wood and
Reynolds, (2014) stated that there are many organizations that make planning to generate more
revenues at the workplace. They conduct market research and identify the needs of consumers
(Factors That Influence Effective Strategic Planning Process in Organizations, 2016). According
to their requirements, these entities make plan so that they can offer satisfactory goods and
services to the buyers. An enterprise can get success if it is able to make effective strategic plan.
This aids in identifying the effectiveness of these strategies and implementing these at workplace
in an efficient manner. Business planning and monitoring are helpful techniques that support in
the growth of corporation (Williams, 2017).
As per the views of Mohr and et.al., (2014) there is a strong relationship in between
planning and performance. In order to gain success in high competition, it is essential for
companies to make an effective plan. Planning highly depends upon internal and external factors.
If entities are able to concentrate on their macro and micro components then it can be better for
11

the firm to manage operations well. Planning in enterprise gives power to the management in
identifying risks and make strategies to mitigate these uncertainties. Kazemi and Szmerekovsky,
(2015) argued that there is no significant relationship in between planning activities and sales
performance of the business unit. There are many big organizations which are making an
effective plan. This research supports these entities in identifying the market demand and
preparing plan accordingly (Factors That Influence Effective Strategic Planning Process in
Organizations, 2016). But external changes are uncontrollable and after making plan, enterprises
cannot reduce consequences of sudden changes. This is a critical situation that creates issue for
the firm in running operations smoothly. These modifications cannot be assumed and thus, it
becomes difficult to make the future plan. Though companies have to be prepared for
consequences and need to prepare contingency plan for the same, it is not possible that these
planning activities are able to minimize risk of entity (Factors That Influence Effective Strategic
Planning Process in Organizations, 2016). If there is economic change and entity has made plan
to offer attractive discounts then it would be worthwhile because in such condition, people will
definitely buy goods and services from the firm that offer them discounts.
According to Sadun, (2015) planning and employee performance are interrelated aspects.
If managers plan to motivate workers and offer incentives then staff members can feel
encouraged and they will perform well in the organization but if there is no planning for
motivating employees then in such condition, these people feel unhappy and they always search
for new job. Entities have to monitor technological changes in the external environment. If new
technology comes in the market then it becomes essential for business to implement these
techniques at workplace. For that, it is very important for business to make an effective financial
plan so that entity can spend high amount in the implementation of new technologies. This is the
way through which organization can improve operational efficiency and enhance its sales
revenues as well (Environmental Factors in Strategic Planning, 2018).
Influence of planning activities on operational and financial performance of firm
According to Fernandes and Chamusca, (2014) formal strategic planning influences
operational and financial performance of company to a high extent. Over a period of time,
competition has been highly increased. In such highly complex environment, it has become very
difficult for the business units to sustain in market for longer duration. Formal and informal
planning process is evidence of improved operational performance of company. Formal practices
12

have given positive results to these firms. Companies always ensure to make effective plan that
can aid in identifying the issues in business and can help marketer in finding suitable solution for
the same. There are many companies that make informal planning; they assume certain
consequences that might occur in business unit in the future. This assumption helps the firms in
preparing contingency plan and to be prepared for all issues (Factors That Influence Effective
Strategic Planning Process in Organizations, 2016). Management assumes that new
technologies will come in the market that can minimize operational errors and improve
efficiency level. That is the reason; most of the companies make plan and implement changes
through which they can raise their operational efficiency. This reduces the cost of firm and
enhances overall revenues.
IšoraItė, (2014) argued that financial capability of business unit plays a significant role in
company. If entity is planning to make technological changes at workplace then it assumes that
employees will resist these alterations. In such condition, it becomes essential for the managers
to make effective strategic plan through which they can make them positive to accept these
modifications. If companies fails to make plan then it can create negative situation for the
business unit. This is the reason that higher authorities always concentrate on motivating people
before implementing new changes. They encourage staff members and provide them incentives
as well. This turns the mind of person and individuals become able to listen viewpoints of higher
authorities. Once people are ready to listen carefully then managers make them aware with the
benefit of these alterations. By this way, they accept changes and support entity in order to
accomplish the goals of company. These employees put their hard efforts and deal with
consumers well. This helps in raising the sales volume of entity and enhancing its financial
performance as well.
According to Kazemi and Szmerekovsky, (2015) planning activities do not influence
operational and financial performance of the organization. Companies make planning but some
changes cannot be assumed. In such condition, entity has to bear the consequences of changes
after making plan. In order to improve the operational and financial performance of company,
higher authorities have to monitor working of firm and accordingly, they have to work for the
benefit of enterprise (Factors That Influence Effective Strategic Planning Process in
Organizations, 2016).
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Summary
From the above literature review, it can be articulated that planning activities play a
significant role in organization. Planning helps entities in identifying the consequences and
prepare plan to deal with these problems. This supports in utilizing their resources well and
avoiding critical situation at the workplace. Above chapter can be summarized as there are many
factors that put a direct impact on planning activities such as economic, technological changes,
etc. All these are macro components that can adversely affect the business unit. In such
condition, entity can get failed to make plan but proper monitoring and effective strategic
planning is beneficial in order to gain success and accomplish the overall goals of company.
From the above chapter, it can be concluded that planning activities such as marketing,
financial, administration planning are helpful for the retail business because these activities
support in improving the operational process and forecasting risks. By this way management can
make contingency plan in order to accomplish goal of the business unit. Legal factor is
considered as the most influencing element that can affect overall planning activities of
enterprise. If companies fail to make plan then it can create negative situation for the business
unit
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CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Introduction
Research methodology (RM) is a theoretical analysis tool that supports the researcher in
investigating topic and establishing facts. This aids in addressing research questions and reaching
to the final results (Lewis, 2015). RM is a useful source of methods for solving research
problems. Researcher always works to search in-depth information about the topic so that these
unanswered questions can be addressed systematically (Pearson, Albon and Hubball, 2015). If
individuals do not involve appropriate tools and technique for the investigation then it would be
difficult to reach at the final results.
Research philosophy
Research philosophy paradigm plays a significant role in dissertation. It deals with the
development of knowledge and understanding nature of study. This method enables researcher in
adopting the best method through which individuals can identify various aspects of research
topic (Vaioleti, 2016). Interpretivism, positivism and realism are three main types of
philosophies. All these methods have unique features and are applied in different projects. As per
the view of Vaioleti, (2016) Interpretivism is the type of method that includes human beings and
their viewpoints in investigation. This technique believes to carry out investigation in a
subjective manner that can be helpful in finding the reality. In qualitative type of studies,
researcher has to apply this interpretivism philosophy for constructing meaningful reality
(Vaioleti, 2016).
On the other hand, Brinkmann, (2014) argued that positivism philosophy is another type
of paradigm that works with observational social reality. In this method, scholar has to follow the
structured procedure. This aids in formulating hypothesis and testing these hypothesis. It deals
with the quantifiable observations and it is applied in such researches when scholar has to
perform statistical calculations. Realism is a type of philosophy that works to disclose the truth
of reality. There are two main types of realism methods i.e. direct and critical. Direct realism
involves such details that have been gained through experience (Brinkmann, 2014). All these
philosophies are applied in different types of dissertations.
In the present study on importance of planning activities on performance of retail sector,
researcher has taken assistance of interpretivism philosophy. Use of theories and models is
15

appropriate because by this way researcher has become able to answers research questions. This
is a suitable method for this topic because by this way, individuals will be able to analyze the
human feelings related to planning activities in retail organizations. In the current research on
significance of planning activities within retail sector scholar has to focus more on meaning
thus, use of interpretivism method has supported in investigating issues,. Interpretivism studies
have high level of validity and concentrate more on subject matter. This has supported scholar in
including social aspects and real facts about the topic (Chauhan and et.al, 2015). Subjective way
of conducting an investigation has played a significant role in the dissertation because by this
way, researcher will become able to identify subjective details related to planning activities and
the way they impact on overall functioning of business unit.
Research design
Research design is the procedure to conduct an investigation and find relevant facts
related to subject matter. It can be defined as the framework to prepare research paper and find
answers of research questions. According to Brinkmann, (2014) Design is an arrangement of
various conditions that aims to meet with the aim of dissertation. In fact, it is the conceptual
structure that helps in conducting research in a systematic manner. Exploratory design is the type
of method that examines data set and generate hypothesis. In this technique, researcher has to
concentrate on discovering new ideas and insight details related to topic. On the other hand,
experimental design is another type of technique that makes experiments and always work to
change situations. In this design, scholar does not involve human beings. As per the view of
Vasilevsky and et.al, (2015) Descriptive research design is considered as one of the most
common methods that is applied in qualitative type of studies. This helps in describing the
characteristics of variables (Pearson, Albon and Hubball, 2015).
In the present study on importance of planning activities in retail sector, scholar has
applied descriptive research design. This is suitable method because by applying this technique
individual has become able to describe significance of planning for Tesco and what
consequences can be faced by business if this element is being ignored. Researcher wanted to
collect rich data about significance of planning activities within retail sector thus, use of
descriptive design was appropriate because by this way broad view of details have been gathered
by scholar. This method use life experience of human being so that in-depth information can be
gathered. This has helped researcher in finding the facts related to significance of planning and
16

the way it influence operations of company. This carried out entire investigation on the basis of
specific objectives. With the help of this method, individual explains data set and finds valid
results. As significance of planning activities is a non-quantified topic thus, use of descriptive
design has supported in integrating qualitative and quantitative data in an effective manner. This
descriptive design has supported in highlighting all points and answering the research questions
effectually (Vasilevsky and et.al, 2015).
Research approach
Inductive reasoning is one of the most commonly used approaches. It conducts entire
investigation in a specific pattern and develops explanations. According to Daniel, Kumar and
Omar, (2018) this method conducts research from detailed observations and develops
generalization. In this technique, scholar does not form any kind of hypothesis. It is similar to
bottom- up approach in which observations have been done to describe the actual picture of
situation (Daniel, Kumar and Omar, 2018). These observations help the scholar in formulating
theories. This method is generally applied in qualitative type of projects where scholar needs not
to make any statistical calculations. As per the view of Daniel, Kumar and Omar, (2018)
Deductive is another type of approach that is applied in quantitative type of studies. In this
technique, individuals have to formulate hypothesis and need to test these assumptions (Emmel,
2015). It is applied in such type of studies in which individuals are required to conduct the
scientific investigations. Deductive approach mainly concentrates on the causality.
In the present dissertation based on significance of planning within retail sector, researcher
has applied inductive research approach. Human being are being involved in order to answers
research questions and if researcher had used deductive approach then it was necessary to frame
hypothesis, it might made it more complicated thus, use of inductive approach was suitable and
convenient for the present research. Use of inductive approach in significance of planning
activities within retail sector research has helped scholar in using unbiased approaches and
measuring information effectively. By using this method individual has become able to relate
variables from research questions. Thus, it is the most suitable method for current study because
by this way, individual has become able to collect substantial amount of data and conducting
investigation from specific to general manner. This has supported the researcher in generating
explanation and gathering insight details related to topic. One of the main reasons of applying
this technique is that it has supported researcher in ignoring pre- determined information and
17

finding real facts related to topic. In this tool, scholar has involved human beings who have good
knowledge about the topic and can give real information about planning and its importance
(Lewis, 2015). With the assistance of inductive approach, individuals have become able to sense
research problem and analyzed situation properly. All these things have supported the scholar in
addressing research problem in an effective manner.
Research strategy
Research strategies are divided into two i.e. qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative
method is a type of technique in which scholar takes support of theories and models. This is the
simple way of conducting investigations. It helps in gaining inside details related to topic and
addressing research problems. Brinkmann, (2014) argued that Qualitative strategies are such
methods in which researcher does not involve any kind of numerical data (Brinkmann, 2014).
Individuals use pictures and observations in order to answer these unanswered questions. This is
the easiest way through which scholar can explore ideas and address research problems. It is
holistic in nature and collects subjective information about the subject matter. On the other hand,
quantitative research is another type of strategy that involves mathematical calculations.
Individual has to formulate hypothesis and need to test these assumptions. It generally carries out
an investigation from objective view point.
In the present dissertation, researcher has applied qualitative research strategy. This
strategy has made this entire investigation systematic and simple. Involvement of statistical
calculation can made it more complicated thus; use of qualitative strategy was suitable. As
scholar has to conduct research on significance of planning activities within retail sector and by
using qualitative strategy individual has become able to involve theories and qualitative
information about planning activities and its impact on business. This is suitable for identifying
the significance of planning activities within retail sector (Pearson, Albon and Hubball, 2015).
By using qualitative type of method, individual has become able to involve complete theoretical
data related to planning activities. This is the best form through which individuals can gain
factual information about topic (Daniel, Kumar and Omar, 2018). These details are clearer and
helpful in developing the understanding of researcher about planning activities.
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Data collection
Data collection is considered as one of the most essential part of dissertation. It helps
researcher in developing in depth understanding of researcher. There are two main methods of
gathering details: primary and secondary. As per the view of Emmel, (2015) Primary data
collection sources are such tools in which scholar gathers first hand details related to topic. The
complete information is fresh and supports scholar in identifying facts related to subject matter
(Chauhan and et.al., 2015). This aids in understanding the situation and defining situation
clearly. Interview, questionnaire, survey, observation, etc. are various methods of data collection.
According to Chauhan and et.al., (2015) interview is the method in which individual
conducts face to face or telephonic conversation. All interviewees have to answer these questions
of the researcher. Questionnaire is another tool in which individuals ask questions with
respondents. This helps in identifying current details about planning activities (Emmel, 2015).
Secondary data collection sources are such methods in which investigator can take assistance of
already available data. There are many researchers who have conducted study on the same topic.
Books, journals, online articles, etc. are many tools of knowing the factual information.
In the present dissertation, scholar has applied both these tools primary and secondary
sources. Primary data for identifying significance of planning activities within retail sector has
been gathered through interview and questionnaire method. Apart from this, secondary data also
has been used to enhance knowledge about planning activities and its impact on business.
Initially, researcher has used books and journals that are related with planning activities within
retail sector. These sources have supported the researcher in gathering information. Scholar has
reviewed the literatures of other authors. Apart from this, scholar has used primary data
collection sources as well. Investigator has used semi structured technique and questionnaire
both tools. Researcher has involved human beings who can give answers of these questions.
These people have disclosed the real facts related to planning activities and its importance in
retail firms. This has supported the individual in finding results and addressing research
questions. One of the main advantages of primary data collection method is that it helps in
gathering real and current facts related to subject matter. But, it is time consuming process and
sometimes, respondents do not give accurate answers of asked questions.
One of the main reasons of applying questionnaire and semi structured technique is that
this has helped individuals in involving original details that has enhanced the accuracy of entire
19

research findings. This semi structured interview technique gives current details and gives
realistic view to researcher. By this way, individual has become able to address these research
questions effectively (Chauhan and et.al, 2015). Scholar has focused more on the real facts and
has used secondary information just to develop knowledge about planning activities and their
importance within retail sector. By using both these methods, investigator has conducted this
research properly and answered all questions in an appropriate manner.
Sampling
Sampling is considered as a set of activities of involving definite number of people in the
research. Vaioleti, (2016) declared that researcher has to involve the number of people in
investigation (Lewis, 2015). There are two main types of sampling methods i.e. probability and
non-probability. Both these tools have unique characteristics and are applied in different kinds of
projects. It is the responsibility of researcher to apply an appropriate method that can help person
in gaining insight details about the subject matter. Probability sampling can be defined as a
method in which each population has probability to be selected. This supports the investigation
in providing credible results. The most common types of probability sampling techniques are
random and stratified. As per the view of Lewis, (2015) Random sampling is a type of tool in
which each individual has equal likelihood to be selected (Vaioleti, 2016).
In the present research on significance of planning activities within retail sector scholar
has applied random sampling method. This has supported in involving people without bias and
gathering actual detail about significance of planning activities. Random sampling method has
been applied in this study, where researcher has to select people on random basis and these
respondents give an appropriate answer of research questions. One of the main advantages of this
method is that there is no biasness in selection process. On the other hand, stratified technique is
another type of method that divides people in strata. On the basis of education, social class,
region, etc., researcher divides people and this sub set of group is called as stratum. Systematic is
another type of probability sampling technique that selects people in an efficient manner. These
probability sampling techniques are easy to be used as well as more convenient (Brinkmann,
2014).
On the other hand, non-probability techniques are such methods in which people do not
have probability to be selected. Such samples are less desirable. Quota sampling is the type of
tool that is used to ensue inclusion of specific group of people. On the other hand, purposive
20

sampling is another type of non-probability sampling technique that involves such people who
can fulfil specific needs of scholar (Chauhan and et.al, 2015).
In the present study on significance of planning activities within retail industry, scholar
has taken support of random sampling method. This is the most appropriate tool for present
research because it is qualitative in nature and thus, by using random sampling, individual has
become able to involve people randomly in the investigation. These respondents can give
answers without any biasness (Emmel, 2015). In order to identify the importance of planning
activities within retail sector, scholar has involved 40 managers of Tesco. For interview
questions, individual has selected 5 employees of company. They are the samples of this research
and they are able to give accurate answers of research questions.
Data analysis
Data analysis is the process of evaluating details in order to generate actual results and
drawing valid conclusion (Pearson, Albon and Hubball, 2015). It is the technique that supports
researcher in answering research questions. There are two main types of researches i.e.
qualitative and quantitative. In both types of dissertations, scholar has to apply different analysis
methods. In the qualitative type of technique, scholar involves theories and models. These
theories allow scholar in finding the facts related to subject matter and reaching to final results.
Daniel, Kumar and Omar, (2018) declared that Qualitative data analysis methods always try to
convert raw material into meaningful information. In such type of studies, scholar has to take
support of thematic analysis tool (Daniel, Kumar and Omar, 2018). This is considered as the
most effective technique that helps researcher in presenting information in an appropriate manner
by using graphs and charts. On the other hand, quantitative data analysis is another type of
method. In such technique, individual takes support of mathematical calculation. As per the view
of Pearson, Albon and Hubball, (2015) Individual applies SPSS technique for evaluating the
data. Researcher calculates mean, mode, standard deviation, correlation, etc. All these
calculations help the person in finding accurate results. Secondary analysis method is another
type of technique that involves earlier studies and evaluates their details. On the basis of previous
studies, actual results are generated by investigator (Pearson, Albon and Hubball, 2015).
In order to find out importance of planning activities within retail industry, researcher has
applied thematic analysis method. Graphical presentation and preparation of themes have made it
more presentable and it was easy to interpret the results. In this, scholar has prepared the graphs
21

and charts. This graphical presentation has helped the scholar in finding accurate answers and
analyzing importance of planning activities within retail firms. Investigator has prepared themes
and according to collected data, individual has interpreted these themes. This has helped in
finding the valid results and drawing meaningful conclusion.
Ethical considerations
Brinkmann, (2014) argued that ethical considerations are considered as the most essential
part of dissertation. Individuals may get failed if this part is missing. Researcher has the
responsibility towards respondents and other stakeholders and it is essential to fulfill these duties
in an appropriate manner. It is the duty of scholar to provide protection to all participants. No
individual should get hard during investigation. Researcher has to respect the people and have to
take care of their dignity. It is the responsibility of scholar to communicate each necessary detail
with participants; individual cannot hide things with answers (Brinkmann, 2014). They have
right to know the aim of investigation
Chauhan and et.al, (2015) stated that in order to identify the importance of planning
activities within retail industry, researcher has taken care of all these ethical aspects. Researcher
has first taken written consent of all the participants. Individuals have sent them consent form
and they have signed this. This shows that people are ready to share their views and scholar has
not forced any individual to be part of this study. Scholar has saved all details in password
protected computer. Individuals have not shared password with any third person. Investigator has
given the right to respondents to skip any question if they do not want to answer these questions.
Scholar has used simple language so that questions can be easily understood by all the persons
and it does not create any kind of confusion in their mind.
Plagiarism is the major issue in dissertation, it is the responsibility of scholar to avoid this
problem in research paper. In the present research, scholar has taken care of this part and has not
copied information from any website. Individual has accessed only authorized sites and used
these material but have translated in own language. That is why there is no issue of the
plagiarism. Investigator has communicated with all involved persons clearly. All people were
clear with the aim and objective of this study (Vaioleti, 2016). Researcher has maintained the
transparency and honesty during conducting this research. Scholar has not manipulated any
material; meaning of all these details is same. Scholar has avoided the unacceptable language
and has not discriminated any person on the basis of their age, income, race, etc.
22

Reliability and validity
All the data that have been used in present study have been collected from reliable
sources. Researcher has not manipulated any detail and all these details are valid and accurate. If
same data is being used and different approaches are applied then also results will be same.
Researcher has conduct piloting research that has supported in providing structured opportunities
of using correct methods.
Research method limitation
Scholar has not applied any statistical tool for carrying out this risk. Individual could use
numerical data in the investigation. This was the major limitation of this study. Furthermore,
individual has less focused on framing hypotheses these were the limitation of research methods.
Summary
From the above chapter, it can be concluded that there are various methods that are
helpful in conducting a research in effective manner. But for the qualitative study use of primary
data collection sources and inductive research approaches are best suitable. By this way, scholar
can gather real facts and can analysis details in an effective manner.
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CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS
Introduction
Data analysis is the evaluation of details in order to find out results. This chapter will take
support of thematic analysis tool. Themes will be prepared and through graphical presentation,
these themes will be interpreted.
Analysis
Theme 1: Length of working in organization
Less than 1 year 4 10.00%
Between 2-3 year 10 25.00%
Between 3-4 year 21 52.5.00%
More than 5 year 5 12.5.00%
Interpretation: From the above data, it is identified that there are 4 out of 40 respondents who
are working in the organization from less than one year. On the other hand, there are 10 out of 40
who are in the entity from 2-3 years. Whereas, 21 out of 40 answers are here who have replied
that they are in Tesco from 3-4 years. Apart from this, 5 out of 40 participants who are in the
entity from more than 5 years.
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Theme 2: Tesco makes plan to improve its operational efficiency.
Yes 35 87.5.00%
No 5 12.5%
Interpretation: From the above data, it can be identified that there are 35 out of 40 answerers
who have replied that Tesco always makes plan in order to improve operational efficiency of
business. Company has become the leading brand in retail sector. It always concentrates on
making necessary changes in the business unit so that firm can identify errors and can work to
minimize issues. On the other hand, 5 out of 40 respondents have viewed that Tesco does not
make plan to improve operational efficiency of company. From the above analysis, it can be
interpreted that Tesco is the leading brand and it provides high quality of products and services
to consumers. It always conducts the market research and identifies improvement areas.
Theme 3: Planning activities are important for Tesco retail firm.
Yes 26 65.00%
No 8 20.00%
Not sure 6 15.00%
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Interpretation: From the above data, it is found that 26 out of 40 answerers have viewed that
planning activities are essential for Tesco. On the other hand, there are 8 out of 40 participants
who have viewed that no planning is necessary for the growth of business unit. Whereas, 15% of
respondents have said that they are not sure on this point. From the above data, it can be
interpreted that maximum people have viewed that planning plays a significant role in the retail
firm. By making an effective plan, company can identify its risks and can make plan to minimize
the consequences of these risks. Planning activities are important for the growth of business unit.
It supports in raising the operational and financial performance of company.
This supports entities in gaining competitive advantage and sustains the market for a
longer duration.
Theme 4: Various kinds of planning activities
Human resource planning 12 30%
Financial planning 10 25%
Risk management planning 12 30%
Marketing planning 6 15%
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Interpretation: From the above data, it can be identified that 30% respondents have viewed that
human resource planning is essential for business. On the other hand, 25% answerers have
replied that financial planning is the main activity and entity is required to make effective
financial plan in order to sustain in the market for longer duration. Whereas, 12 out of 40
participants have replied that risk management is the most essential plan that is needed to be
made by the firm. There are 6 out of 40 respondents who have replied that marketing planning
can be helpful in achieving the goals of company. From the above data, it can be interpreted that
it is essential for the business unit to make effective planning. All these planning activities
support the organization in managing people well and minimizing issues of company.
Theme 5: Factor influences planning activities of business
Economic changes 14 35%
Technological changes 4 10%
Sudden alteration in
government laws
16 40%
Competitor strategies 6 15%
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Interpretation: From above data, it is identified that 14 out of 40 respondents have viewed that
economic change is major factor influence planning activities of business. If sudden value of
Pound (£) gets down or sudden inflation takes place then in such condition, consumer purchasing
power will get affected. Thus, it would become essential for Tesco to make changes in its
planning because existing plan will not be worthwhile. 4 out of 40 answerers have replied that
technological changes are the most common factors that put a direct impact on overall planning
activities of entity. If new technology comes in the market then it becomes essential for Tesco to
implement it. In such condition, management will have to make changes in existing operational
activities which might increase the cost of company.
Whereas, 16 out of 40 participants have replied that sudden alteration in government laws
influence the overall planning. Government can make changes in legislation any time. In such
condition, it becomes necessary for company to implement these new rules and make
modifications in existing planning. If government restricts the working hours then managers
have to make changes in operational planning process so that it can run its business according to
norms. On the other hand, 6 out of 40 answerers have replied that changes in competitor
strategies influence planning of enterprise. If competitors start providing goods at lower rates
then it becomes essential for the firm to make changes in pricing strategy so that it can gain
attention of people and retain them at the workplace for longer duration.
Theme 6: Human resource planning is helpful in improving the performance of Tesco.
28

Strongly agree 20 50%
Agree 14 35%
Disagree 4 10%
Strongly disagree 2 5%
Interpretation: From the above data, it is identified that 20 out of 40 respondents have replied
that they are strongly agreed that human resource planning is helpful in improving overall
performance of Tesco. On the other hand, 14 out of 40 participants have said that they are agreed
with this point that HR planning is beneficial for growth of entity. Whereas, 4 out of 40
answerers have replied that they are disagreed with this point. From the above analysis, it can be
interpreted that human resource planning is important for the growth of company. If management
is paying more attention on managing employees well then it would help the organization in
retaining skilled people at workplace for longer duration. Enterprises can plan to motivate
workers and raise their level of performance as well. If manager plans to raise the skills of
employees and provide them necessary training then it would be beneficial for the organization
to improve their performance. By this way, they will become confident and perform well at the
workplace.
Theme 7: Involvement of employees can help in making effective planning.
To some extent 12 30%
29

To great extent 24 60%
Not important 4 10%
Interpretation: From the above data, it is identified that 12 out of 40 respondents have viewed
that to some extent, involvement of employees is beneficial in making an effective plan. On the
other hand, 24 out of 40 answerers have replied that to a great extent, employee’s involvement is
essential to make an effective plan. Whereas, 4 out of 40 participants have replied that it is not
essential to engage employees in decision making process in order to make proper plan. From the
above data, it can be interpreted that if Tesco involves its workers in decision making process
then it would support company in getting innovative ideas. With the assistance of these creative
ideas, company will be able to plan for better future.
Theme 8: Things need to be considered while making planning
Market demand 8 20%
Competitor’s strategies 12 30%
Economic condition 16 40%
Others 4 10%
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Interpretation: From the above discussion, it is identified that 8 out of 40 respondents have
viewed that Tesco is required to consider market demand and accordingly, it has made plans.
Market demand is a crucial aspect for the success of business unit. If organization is paying
attention on the overall demand then it would be able to make plans through which it can meet
with demand and can fulfill expectation of public. On the other hand, 12 out of 40 answerers
have replied that strategy of competitors is the major aspect that needs to be considered by the
firm while making an effective plan. If company is paying attention on competitor’s strategy
then it would help in making more efficient strategy that can support in gaining competitive
advantage.
But if entity gets failed to address competitor’s planning then it might create problem for
sustaining in the market for longer duration. 16 out of 40 participants have replied that it is
essential for company to pay attention on economic condition of the market. Economic condition
can get changed any time and thus, it is very essential for the business to monitor fluctuations
and make plans accordingly. Marketers always have to prepare contingency plan so that if
sudden changes occur then entity may face such issues and can run its business smoothly.
Whereas, 10% of respondents have viewed that there are many other factors that are needed to be
considered such as financial capability, employment laws, etc.
Theme 9: Market research is essential before making plan.
Yes 34 85%
31

No 4 10%
Not Sure 2 5%
Interpretation: From the above data, it is identified that 34 out of 40 respondents have viewed
that market research is very important before making plan for the growth of business. On the
other hand, 4 out of 40 answerers have replied that it is not essential to conduct research because
there are many other elements that are essential as compared to market research in order to
prepare an effective plan. From the above study, it can be interpreted that market research is the
most important part of planning activities. Companies are required to pay attention on
conducting specific market research. There are many firms that have gained success through this
component because by conducting research, they will get to know about the needs of people.
By this way, entities become able to offer them same goods as per their requirement.
Maximum people have viewed that one of the main objectives of conducting market research is
to monitor effectiveness of services and gathering viewpoints of consumers about products of the
entity. By this way, management can identify improvement areas and they can make plan for
making necessary changes in the operational activities so that they can meet with the
expectations of consumers to a great extent. It has been analyzed that market research is a
systematic way of gathering in-depth details about market condition and knowing more about
target market. This supports the enterprises in creating values for consumers and provides
satisfactory goods to buyers.
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Theme 10: Financial performance and sales revenues of Tesco can be improved by making
effective marketing plan.
To great extent 26 65%
To some extent 12 30%
Cannot improve 2 5%
Interpretation: From the above research, it is found that 26 out of 40 respondents have viewed
that financial and sales performance of company can be improved by making an effective plan.
They believe that if entity prepares plan by considering all essential aspects then it would support
organization in providing satisfactory products to the target audience. By this way, they will feel
happy and buy company’s products frequently. On the other hand, 12 out of 40 participants have
viewed that to some extent, marketing can be beneficial in order to raise financial performance of
the entity. It is because; firm has to spend a huge amount to market its products. In such
condition, its expenses get increased and revenues decrease. But to some extent, it is able to raise
the sales of organization. Whereas, 2 out of 40 answerers have replied that planning cannot
improve the financial performance of business. They have viewed that external factors can
influence the overall performance of firm any time.
From the above analysis, it can be interpreted that companies are required to concentrate
on making effective marketing plan. This can support these entities in identifying the needs of
consumers and providing them goods and services as per their requirements. By this way, people
33

will be loyal towards the brand and they will buy services of entity frequently. One of the main
aims of Tesco is to enhance profitability of enterprise and make people loyal towards the brand.
In order to accomplish this objective, company is required to make an effective plan. Marketing
plan is able to promote the products to mass audience in an appropriate manner. By this way,
entity can enhance the satisfaction level of consumers.
Theme 11: Best strategy to make effective plan
Involvement of employees 10 25%
Effective market research 16 40%
Foster strategic
communication
12 30%
Taking review of stakeholders 2 5%
Interpretation: From the above figure, it is identified that 10 out of 40 respondents have viewed
that invovement of employees is the best way to make an effective plan.They have replied that if
entity involves their workers in decision making process and if it takes feedback of them then it
will make the persons feel valued. By this way, they will become loyal and share their innovative
ideas with higher authorities. This will help organization in making plan as per the market
requirments. On the other hand, 16 out of 40 answerers have replied that effective market reserch
is a great stratgy that can help in making good plan for the growth of business unit. Whereas, 12
34

out of 40 participants have said that foster stratgeic communication in the strategy assists
inpreparing good plan. 2 out of 40 respondents have replied that taking review of stakeholders is
a good way to create plan.
From the above analysis, it can be interprted that maximum people have viewed that in
order to prepare an effective plan, it is very important for company to conduct market research.
This can help in identifying industry standards and requirements of consumers. By this way,
entity can make plan in such a manner that can meet with the expectations of customers. Market
research is helpful in identifying the current market position and plan to raise this positon. By
conducting effective research, management can prepare marketing, operational and financial
plan. This is the way through which operational efficiency level of company can be improved
and entity can attract more consumers towards the brand. Communication plays a significant
role in preparing the marketing plan. If managers take care of foster strategic communication
then it would be better for entity to identify gap between existing performance and expected
results. This wil help in taking neccesary actions through which this gap can be minimized soon.
Strategic communication is benefical in gaining innovative ideas and minimizing confusions.
This is the way that can support entities in preparing a good plan and sustaining in market for
longer duration.
Interview
Theme 1: planning supports in meeting demand and increasing productivity in Tesco
Interpretation: Interviewee A, B, C have replied that Tesco is the leading retail firm and it carries
out its operations with effective planning. It is very important for the firm to make proper plan.
This helps in meeting with demand and increasing productivity because by this way entity
becomes able to identify issues. This supports in making timely actions to resolve problems. On
other hand interviewee D, E has replied demand can get changed any time thus, planning cannot
help in meeting demand. This supports in improving operational efficiency but does not really
impact on productivity.
Theme 2: HR and risk management planning are necessary to conduct operation in efficient
manner
Interpretation: Interviewee A,B,C,D have answered that HR and risk management plan are most
essential aspect because by this way managers can identify risk and can find appropriate
35

solutions to resolve these problems. Furthermore, HR planning aids in minimizing gap between
desired and actual human resources. By this way enterprise can run its operations well and can
generate more revenues. On other hand has replied that financial planning is most important as
compare to HR and risk management plan because if entity manages its financial resources well
then it will help in raising its profit to great extent.
Theme3: best strategy that can help in managing production planning activities well
Interpretation: Interviewee A,B, has replied that scheduling is the best strategy that can help in
managing production planning well .On other hand interviewee C, D, E have sad that follow up
is the best way to meet production requirements. By this way Tesco can complete all task within
stipulated period and can manage risk as well.
Theme 4: Planning impacts on operational efficiency
Interpretation: Interviewee A, B,C, D, E have said that planning supports in raising operational
efficiency of business. If entity is unable to make effective plan then firm willnot be able
toaccomplish its objective. Becauseexternal factors wilinfleunce its practices but proper planning
assist in conduicting operationswell and enhancing efficiency level as well.
Theme 5: relationship between planning and profitability of Tesco
Interpretation: Interviewee A, B, C, D have replied that there is strong relationship between
planning and profitability of Tesco. Poor planning has created bad situation for the business and
it got failed to meet with expectant of consumers. Thus, planning activities can aid in identifying
requirements of consumers and providing them goods accordingly. This can help in increasing
profitability of the enterprise to great extent. On other hand E interviewee has said that there is
not relationship between planning and profit because if company is able to offer high quality
goods then people will feel happy and they will buy its services. There is no need to make pre
plan for conducting operations.
Theme 6: Factors create issue for manager in making effective plan.
Interpretation: Interviewee A, B has replied that changes in economic condition create big
trouble for the planning manager to make plan and conduct operations smoothly. On other hand
C, D, E interviewees have replied that high competition creates issue for the companies in
making plan because if competitors are offering goods at lower rate than company will also have
36

to make changes in its prices so that it can run its business smoothly. Furthermore, if competitors
are using advance marketing tactics then Tesco will also make modification in its marketing
strategies so that it can run its business smoothly.
Theme 7: Planning can help Tesco in gaining competitive advantage.
Interpretation: Intervieweee A, B,C,D have replied that through planning,managers can forecast
risk and can make contingency plan to resolve such problems. Furthermore, E interviewee has
answered that planning supports in identifying competitor’s strategies and making nececsry
modification in existing practics so that it can gain competitive advnatge.
Summary
From the above chapter it can be concluded that Risk management planning assists in
identifying the hazardous activities that can cause damage overall reputation and financial
position of company. Planning has strong relationship with profitability of business, proper
planning aids in identifying market situation and making necessary changes in operations. This
can help in minimizing risk and generating more revenues in company.
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CHAPTER 5: DISCUSSION
Discussion
From the above data, it can be interpreted that maximum people are working in Tesco
from 3-4 years. They have good knowledge about the working practices of business. The
participants in planning process always ensure implementing new strategies through which entity
can gain success in the market and competitive advantages as well. On the basis of research, it
gets to know what improvements are required in operations. After that, entity makes plan and
implements these changes in the organization (Ramanathan, Subramanian and Parrott, 2017).
This helps the organization in gaining competitive advantage and increasing profitability of
business. Effective planning activities have supported business unit in becoming successful retail
firm in UK retail industry. It is very important for company to make effective plan so that
operational efficiency of the firm can be improved. If Tesco does not make pre plan then it might
create problem for the entity because it would get failed to face critical situations. Planning
makes the enterprise able to face critical conditions and perform well in such complex situations
as well (McDonald and Wilson, 2016).
Effective planning is beneficial in managing people well and retaining skilled employees
at the workplace for longer duration. Apart from these, planning activities are also related with
operations, finance, administration, etc. If enterprise is facing any kind of issue and if it makes
plan, then it can be beneficial for the organization to resolve such problems. In the absence of
effective planning, entity gets failed to take right actions in complicated situation. This is the
reason that planning activities are very important in the organization (Hübner, Wollenburg and
Holzapfel, 2016). Tesco makes an effective plan and according to the needs of consumers, it
offers them products and services. This has helped entity in gaining success and becoming the
most popular retail firm in retail industry.
Effective human resource planning supports organization in retaining skilled people at
workplace for longer duration. Apart from this, HR planning is helpful in identifying the
requirements of people. By this way, HR manager can hire new candidates and give training to
existing employees. This aids in raising skills of employees. By this way, workers can perform
well in the organization and they can contribute well in the success of enterprise. It can be
interpreted that financial planning is very important in the firm because by making an efficient
financial plan, business can have effective control over unnecessary expenditures ( Lee, 2016 ).
38

Financial planning helps in analyzing the cash transactions. By this way, management can make
changes in its allocation. This can be beneficial for raising the profit of company. Risk
management plan is essential for smooth functioning of the enterprise. Each firm has to face
some risk and if it has strategy to mitigate risks then it would aid the organization in gaining
success. Risk management plan assists in identifying level of hazardous and cause of problem..
Planning will help in taking appropriate action to minimizing consequences of risks ( Hübner,
Wollenburg and Holzapfel, 2016 ).
From the above data, it can be interpreted that maximum people have viewed that
government legislations are the most common factors that influence overall planning activities of
the firm. This is an external factor and it is difficult to assume these changes. In such condition,
company cannot be prepared to face such risks. Thus, whenever new rules are made then entity
has to make changes in the existing planning and need to work as per these new norms (Shen and
et.al, 2014).
Human resource planning is related with the recruitment of workforce, providing training
to staff members, motivation to people and their performance appraisal. HR manager is
responsible for analyzing abilities of candidates at the time of recruitment. This helps entity in
recruiting right candidates at workplace who can perform well in the organization. Apart from
this, human resource manager always try to motivate people in the organization. For that, they
identify the needs of people and create such workplace environment in which employees can feel
happy. This is considered as the most effective planning that helps business in growing well and
sustaining in market for longer duration. Tesco is the leading retail firm that always try to
provide training to staff members so that existing people can perform well and they fulfil their
responsibilities effectively (Williams, 2017).
It has been analyzed that workers are the assets of company. If they are satisfied with
working practices of business, then they will support in each activity of business. But, in case if
they are not happy then they will not share their innovative views with higher authorities.
Employee engagement always assists in identifying the issues in working practices and making
necessary changes in practices so that overall operations of entity can be improved soon.
Workers directly deal with the consumers; they have good knowledge about their needs and
requirements. If they feel happy at the workplace and are being involved in decision making
process then in such condition, staff members can feel valued. By this way, they will share their
39

innovative ideas through which company can meet with the expectations of workers (McDonald
and Wilson, 2016).
On the other hand, if people are not happy with working practices of entity then it might
create problem for the firm to identify market requirements because in such situation, employees
will not share their views. This may create problem in making marketing plan and company will
not be able to accomplish its goal. Better engagement is helpful in improving the productivity of
company. When people are being involved in decision making process then it makes them feel
valued and they feel happy in the organization. Company always wants to retain its talented staff
members in the organization for longer duration (Ramanathan, Subramanian and Parrott, 2017).
That is the reason that firm plans to involve them in decision making process and ask their
feedback. Involvement aids the business unit in getting innovative ideas and making effective
plan for managing human resources appropriately.
From the above analysis, it can be interpreted that there are many elements that are
required to be looked upon by Tesco while preparing planning. If management considers all
these elements then it can be beneficial in conducting operations smoothly and gaining
competitive advantages as well. This will assist in improving the efficiency level of operations
and enhancing overall performance of entity. Market demand supports the firm in finding out
gap between expectations of consumers and services provided by organization. This is the best
way through which entity can make changes in its planning and prepare effective strategy
through which it can become able to gain success in the market and meet expectations of service
users. Company has to emphasize on competitor’s strategy because if competitors are providing
goods at lower rates then people will move these brand (Hübner, Wollenburg and Holzapfel,
2016). In such condition, sales of company may get reduced. Thus, it is very important for Tesco
to consider the strategy of competitors so that it can prepare an effective plan that can support in
gaining competitive advantage.
From the above research, it can be interpreted that market research is a significant
element in order to collect information of industry quickly. Tesco is working in the retail sector;
entity is facing huge competition. Asda, Morrisons, etc. are big competitors of Tesco. In such
high competition, it is essential for entity to identify position of these firms in the market so that
it can make an effective marketing plan for gaining attention of mass audience. Market research
helps in measuring the issues in existing practices and identifying industry standards. This is a
40

beneficial tool for organization because retail firm can modify its practices and improve work
based activities as per the industry standards (Shen and et.al, 2014). This is the way that can help
Tesco in making effective marketing and operational plan. Planning is important for avoiding
such risk and minimizing the confusions. By making appropriate risk management plan, entity
can make strategy in advance and can get prepared to deal with the consequences easily.
Summary
It can be summarized as planning is beneficial tool that helps in minimizing unnecessary
cost and managing business activities in an effective manner. This improves economic position
of business and helps organization in sustaining in the market for longer duration.
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CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Conclusion
From the above study, it can be concluded that planning activities play a significant role in
the organization. Objective of company cannot be achieved without having a strong planning.
Through making an effective plan, manager of entity always try to make changes in the work
based practices so that it can attract more consumers and enhance profitability of organization.
Tesco is the leading retail firm; one of the main objective of entity is to enhance its profit and
expand business across the world. For that, organization always focus on making an effective
plan through which it can improve its operational efficiency and minimize the risk. Planning
activities support the firm in utilization of resources in an efficient manner and aid in
technological development in business unit.
Marketing planning is the tool that supports in identifying real facts about company and
finding issue in firm. By this way, managers can plan to resolve such issue and expansion of
business. Retail firms have to deal with the customers daily. It is very important to provide them
goods and services as per their requirements. Through marketing planning, managers can
identify the desires of people and they can offer them products as per their requirements.
Financial planning is the key process of success of any brand. If management pays more
attention on its financial resources, sales, profitability, cost, etc., then it can be beneficial in
raising the revenues of company. Inventory planning is another type of planning activity in
which higher authorities always ensure effective utilization of stock and minimization of
wastage.
Changes in economic condition, government norms, techniques etc. affect the business
unit and its planning activities badly. These factors are uncontrollable; when this modification
takes place then management has to make changes in their existing planning. For instance: it is
essential to make marketing message as per the legal framework. Company cannot circulate any
message which is against the law. If entity makes strategy and government makes changes in
existing rules, then it might create issue for the business in implementing this plan. In such
condition, they will have to make changes in the entire planning process so that firm can have
control over cost. Many companies involve their staff members in decision making process. This
involvement encourages employees and make them loyal towards the brand. If entity does not
involve them in decision then this can decrease morale of workers.. In such condition, company
42

may get failed to identify needs of consumers and it would not be able to prepare plan for the
growth of enterprise.
From the above study, it can be articulated that there is a strong relationship in between
planning and organizational performance. Effective planning supports the business in improving
operational performance and minimizing risks as well. Planning in enterprise gives power to the
management in identifying risks and making strategies to mitigate these uncertainties.
Performance of employees highly depend upon the development activities of organization. All
these activities are essential to identify the requirements of improvement and addressing industry
standards. This is the way that helps organization in making positive changes in organization and
accomplishing goals of company. Formal strategic planning influences the operational and
financial performance of company to a great extent. Formal and informal planning process is the
evidence of improved operational performance of company. Companies always ensure to make
an effective plan that can aid in identifying the issues in business and help marketer in finding
suitable solution for the same. Strategic planning process reduces the cost of firm and enhances
overall revenues. By using this study stakeholders will be able to get more benefit because Tesco
will be able make appropriate planning, this will support in raising its profitability which will be
good sign for stakeholders.
Recommendations
In order to prepare an effective plan, Tesco and other retail firms should follow various
strategies. These are described as below:
 Tesco should concentrate on market research, this can help in identifying the standards
and demand. This will help in preparing plan through which entity can raise its
operational performance and meet with the expectations of employees. Market research
supports management in finding out position of enterprise in the market. By this way,
they can make plan to maintain or enhance their market reputation.
 Tesco should involve its employees in decision making process. When workers are being
involved in each judgment then it raises their confidence and they feel valued in the firm.
Employees directly deal with the consumers. They have good knowledge about their
expectations and requirements. If entity improves their engagement then these people will
share innovative ideas with the organization. These innovative ideas will be beneficial in
43

preparing an effective plan that can support in improving the operational efficiency and
improving financial performance of organization.
Reflection
While conducting the above study researcher has improved their understanding about
importance of planning in retail business. It has been learned that how business can can grow
well by making effective planning. Scholar has improved their communication skills. Earlier to
this, person was not having confident to deal with the audience properly. But this research has
improved coordination skill of the investigator that would be beneficial in conducting researches
in the future. Furthermore, scholar has improved their time management skills. This was such a
long study and time taking tool. But researcher has learnt about how to manage work and
schedule each activity. This has supported the person in completing entire research on time.
Though, researcher has found difficulty in getting approval from the higher authorities for
conducting this research and taking ethical approval from respondents.
Areas for further study
Researcher can conduct research on specific planning activities such as marketing panning
or financial planning and its impact on the business unit in the future. Furthermore, individual
can focus on factors that create difficulty in making planning in business unit. All these areas can
be covered broadly in the future investigations.
Research limitations
While conducting the research, scholar had to face many issues. All these limitations have
created problem for the scholar in completing this research on time.
 Formulation of aim and objectives: Importance of planning activities within retail
sector is too narrowed topic and it was difficult for scholar to frame a clear aim and
objectives on this subject (Chauhan and et.al, 2015). Because many things are involved in
planning activities so, it was necessary to have clear ideas about what kind of planning
activities are needed to be discussed. But researcher has worked on it and framed clear
aim and objectives.
 Time limitation: This was a very big topic because it includes planning related to
operations, marketing, finance, etc. in the organization. In such limited period of time, it
44

was very difficult for the researcher to cover all these aspects. But investigator has
scheduled these activities and completed the study within stipulated period of time
(Vaioleti, 2016).
 Poor discussion on planning in previous studies: Researcher has used many books and
journals in order to develop understanding about the topic but there were limited material
available on planning activities within retail sector. In such condition, it was difficult for
the researcher to gather insight detail about subject matter. But scholar has used primary
data collection sources that have supported individuals in gathering facts and reaching to
the final conclusion (Daniel, Kumar and Omar, 2018).
 Getting permission from higher authorities of Tesco: Individuals have to take
permission from higher authorities of Tesco before involving managers of company in
the study. Researcher has made them understand the way this thesis can be beneficial for
company and individuals have developed confidence that these details will not be given
for commercial purpose. This has helped the person in getting permission from concerned
authorities (Vasilevsky and et.al, 2015).
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APPENDIX
Questionnaire
Name
Age
Gender
1. Since how long you are working in organization?
 Less than 1 year
 Between 2-3 year
 Between 3-4 year
 More than 5 years
2. Does Tesco makes plan to improve its operational efficiency?
 Yes
 No
3. Do you agree that planning activities are important for Tesco?
 Yes
 No
 Not sure
4. What are the main planning activities in business?
 Human resource planning
 Financial planning
 Risk management planning
 Marketing planning
5. What is the major factor that influences planning activities of business?
 Economic changes
 Technological changes
 Sudden alteration in government laws
 Competitor strategies
6. Do you think that human resource planning is helpful in improving the performance of
Tesco?
 Strongly agree
 Agree
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 Disagree
 Strongly disagree
7. To what extent involvement of employees can help in making an effective plan?
 To some extent
 To great extent
 Not important
8. What things need to be considered by Tesco while making plan for growth?
 Market demand
 Competitor’s strategies
 Economic condition
 Others
9. Do you think that market research is essential for making plan?
 Yes
 No
 Not sure
10. Does financial performance and sales revenues of Tesco can be improved by making an
effective marketing plan?
 To great extent
 To some extent
 Cannot improve
11. What is the best strategy to make effective plan in order to accomplish the goal of
organization?
 Involvement of employees
 Effective market research
 Foster strategic communication
 Taking review of stakeholders
Semi- structured Interview
 Do you think that planning supports in meeting demand and increasing productivity in
Tesco?
 Do you think that HR and risk management planning are necessary to conduct operation
in efficient manner?
50

 Which is the best strategy that can help in managing production planning activities well?
 Does planning impact on operational efficiency?
 Is there any relationship between planning and profitability of Tesco?
 What are the factors that create issue for manager in making effective plan?
 How planning can help Tesco in gaining competitive advantage?
51