Report: Global Business Environment and SME Manufacturing Strategies

This report, prepared for the board of directors of a fast-growing SME manufacturing company in the UK, provides a comprehensive analysis of the global business environment. It begins by examining the key drivers of globalization, including cost, market dynamics, environmental factors, competition, and the interplay of push and pull factors. The report then delves into the strategic challenges faced by SMEs in a global context, such as selecting the appropriate international strategy, managing global information systems and risks, navigating corporate structure complexities, and optimizing supply chain flows. It also addresses ethical and governance considerations. The report further evaluates the influence of globalization on organizational governance, leadership, structure, culture, and functions, as well as the impact of ethical and sustainable globalization on SMEs. Diverse decision-making processes are reviewed for effectiveness in a global context. Finally, the report identifies various internationalization routes for the SME, including key barriers, and offers recommendations for overcoming the challenges of operating in the global market, including the adoption of training programs, ethical practices, and responsible waste disposal.