Description
For this project assignment, you will compile all of your previous assignments and add an executive summary to the beginning of the project. To write this unit’s part of the project, review your previously completed assignments to write an executive summary that summarizes the most significant topics from these assignments. Be sure to include brief content on the following listed topics in this executive summary (remember an executive summary touches on observations, findings, or insights gleaned from the previously completed course assignments rather than in-depth coverage of topics). Bullet point statements are also acceptable in an executive summary. In conjunction with the key observations, findings, or insights gleaned from your previously completed assignments, address the following topics in your executive summary. Your executive summary should be placed at the beginning of your project to give the reader an idea of what they will read in your paper. You will then combine your previous assignments after your executive summary in the order in which you completed them.Assess the value of public policies related to business and government. Critique one major government regulation related to the organization you selected for the course assignments.What are the connections or balancing perspectives between economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic responsibilities of organizations?Describe how stakeholders impact supply chain relationships.Summarize contemporary trends in supply chain practices.The executive summary should be at least two pages in length. This does not include combining the completed assignments to create a full company profile. Adhere to APA Style when constructing this assignment, including in-text citations and references for all sources that are used. Previous assignments are attached for you to review toComplete the executive summary.
Unformatted Attachment Preview
1
Role of Technology in Apple Inc.’s Company Strategy
Becquerel Brown-Smith
Columbia Southern University
BUS 7301- Business, Government, and Society
Professor Aubry
January 3, 2024
2
Role of Technology in Apple Inc.’s Company Strategy
Technology is the foundation that Apple Inc. was built upon, considering how the
company appreciates innovation. In fact, this has been integrated into the corporate strategy and
culture of the organization. The company focuses on innovating products, including consumer
electronics (Khalid & Viktoria, 2023). It not only encourages software development but works
towards improving its digital services. Therefore, the company leverages technology to achieve
its business objectives and goals. This includes emphasizing the need to create user-friendly
products that have cutting-edge innovation. It also uses technology to create an efficient product
ecosystem where all the offerings can work together to improve customer satisfaction.
Organizational responsibilities at Apple incorporate ethical challenges related to the use
of technology in different ways. It does this with the aim of solving the various ethical
challenges revolving around the use of technology. One of the biggest challenges faced includes
concerns about user privacy. Other issues relate to data security and supply chain responsibility
(Saeidi et al., 2021). For example, it has been in the spotlight recently because of the issues
related to security breaches. Several concerns about data privacy have been raised. In order to
address such issues, the company has continued to emphasize user privacy in its products. It has
utilized marketing to guarantee its full commitment to providing secure experiences for the
customers. Addressing other issues, such as child labor, also helps achieve higher ethical
standards. Also, the company has constantly worked towards creating safe working conditions
for its employees.
Evolution of Organizational Responsibilities Due to Technological Development
There are several ways that the responsibilities related to the use of technology at Apple
have evolved due to the accelerated development of technology. For example, it has prompted
3
the company to constantly change its approach to innovation (Baporikar, 2022). Its obligations
have now considered the role of innovation in designing its products. Also, the company now
ensures that the technological changes match the ethical standards. In another instance, it has
advanced its focus on sustainability. Apple now aims to reduce the environmental impacts in the
designing, manufacturing, and disposing of its products. The company has also explored the
responsible use of AI applications such as Siri with the emergence of artificial intelligence and
machine learning. While doing this, the company ensures that key issues such as data privacy
have been observed.
Role of Technology in Governmental Regulation
Besides Apple, different countries have put in place various measures that use technology
to regulate the actions of their populations. They have leveraged technology such as information
control and data monitoring. Individual countries have developed surveillance that helps to
monitor their citizens. This helps to control the activities of their citizens by restructuring access
to certain websites. Other technologies, such as facial recognition and AI algorithms, have also
been used to improve law enforcement. However, their use of such technologies has raised
different issues. Some of the concerns relate to ethical issues like privacy and potential misuse of
these technologies.
Technology’s Costs for Governments
Even though the technology has been beneficial, it has created a range of costs for the
government. Some of the costs are financial, including the initial investments for the
infrastructure (Reimers, 2016). Other costs include investments to ensure cybersecurity measures
are in place. Additionally, more costs are incurred when seeking to achieve regulatory
compliance. It is also costly to meet the maintenance requirements for the technology systems.
4
The infrastructure aspects of the technology require continuous financial resources. This makes
the costs of sustaining the technologies ongoing.
In sum, Apple considers technology its cornerstone, putting it to strategic use. It does this
by confirming its commitment to innovation while factoring in ethical considerations. Even so,
the technologies bring different ethical challenges for the organization because of their broad
implications. In another instance, technology plays a critical role for governments despite its
financial burdens.
5
References
Baporikar, N. (2022). Innovation Management Case Study. International Journal of Innovation in
the Digital Economy, 13(1), 1–11. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0676-9913.
Khalid, M. A., & Viktoria, V. (2023). Strategic Marketing Plan for Apple Inc. Network
Intelligence Studies, 11(23), 61-74. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?
abstract_id=4493889.
Reimers, P. (2016). A Review Of Science, Technology & Government By Murray N. Rothbard
Ludgwig Von Mises Institute, Ee.Uu 2015, 52 Pages). Procesos de Mercado: Revista
Europea de Economía Política, 13(1), 575–592.
Saeidi, P., Robles, L. A. A., Saeidi, S. P., & Zamora, M. I. V. (2021). How does organizational
leadership contribute to the firm performance through social responsibility strategies?
Heliyon, 7(7), e07672. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07672.
1
Apple Inc. Organization Analysis
Becquerel Brown-Smith
Columbia Southern University
Course BUS 7301
Professor Aubry
11/28/2023
2
Apple Inc. Organization Analysis
PART 1: Organization Overview
Apple Park, in Cupertino, California, United States.
The company selected for this analysis is Apple Inc. The company is locate at Apple
Park, in Cupertino, California. The study of this company includes the organization overview
along with the social performance and resource allocation information.
Primary Product and Industry:
Apple Inc. is a global tech leader in the consumer electronics industry. It is known for its
innovation as it designs high-quality products such as iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, Apple
Watch, and other software applications (Podolny & Hansen, 2020). The impact of this company
extends beyond devices. It shapes modern lifestyles through cutting-edge technology that
redefines how people communicate, work, and engage. Its constant emphasis on quality,
creativity, and user experience ensures the company continues to set industry benchmarks.
Global Perspective & Organizational Purpose:
Apple’s global mission revolves around designing exceptional products that enhance life.
It strives to remain a leader in innovation. This includes factoring in user needs using the latest
technology that fosters creativity and progress. The company is committed to delivering superior,
user-friendly experiences. Apple sets a benchmark for quality and drives the industry forward
while championing creativity worldwide (Kothawade, 2023). Its dedication to seeking advanced
technology is motivated by the need to achieve user satisfaction. This positions Apple at the
forefront of innovation, influencing how people interact with and benefit from cutting-edge
technology on a global scale.
Responsibilities to Internal and External Stakeholders:
3
Internal stakeholders include employees, shareholders, and management. For its
employees, Apple is committed to providing a conducive work environment, competitive
compensation, and opportunities for career growth (Apple, 2022). Shareholders benefit from the
company’s financial performance and strategic decisions. External stakeholders comprise
customers, suppliers, communities, and regulatory bodies. Apple prioritizes customer satisfaction
while aiming for sustainable sourcing practices from suppliers. Also, it engages in community
initiatives and adheres to legal regulations and industry standards.
Differences between Internal and External Stakeholders:
Internal stakeholders are directly involved or employed within the company. On the
other hand, external stakeholders have an indirect association, such as customers, suppliers, and
communities. Apple addresses these differences by implementing diverse strategies, such as
providing employee benefits. It also ensures product quality for customers, maintains ethical
supplier relationships, and participates in community development projects.
Stakeholders of Apple:
Apple’s key stakeholders include employees, customers, shareholders, suppliers,
communities, regulatory bodies, and interest groups. Employees drive the company’s operations,
contributing to its success (Apple, 2022). Customers hold pivotal significance as the end-users,
shaping demand and driving Apple’s product innovation. Shareholders invest in the company’s
performance and influence strategic decisions. Suppliers play a critical role in Apple’s supply
chain, impacting product quality and ethical standards. Communities affected by Apple’s
presence seek engagement and positive impact. Regulatory bodies and interest groups influence
Apple’s compliance, policies, and societal responsibilities.
Importance of Stakeholder Relationships:
4
Stakeholder relationships are crucial for Apple to maintain its brand reputation. It helps
sustain customer loyalty, ensure ethical supply chain practices, comply with regulations, and
contribute positively to communities. Apple demonstrates consideration for stakeholders in
decision-making through sustainable sourcing initiatives. The company engages in
environmental responsibility campaigns, employee welfare programs, and customer-centric
products.
Benefits and Risks of Building Relationships with Stakeholders:
Apple’s Supplier Responsibility Program ensures ethical sourcing practices, fair labour
conditions, and environmental standards among its suppliers. Monitoring and guiding suppliers
ensures that Apple builds a sustainable relationship. Neglecting stakeholder relationships poses
significant risks for Apple. This includes damage to its brand reputation, potential legal
challenges, reduced customer trust, and disruptions in the supply chain. Ignoring stakeholders
compromises the ecosystem crucial for Apple’s success.
PART 2: Social Performance and Resource Allocation
Power Types within Apple:
Apple demonstrates various types of power. This includes economic power due to its
financial influence (Leswing, 2021). It also has technological power through innovative products
and social power, as evident in its global brand recognition. The responsible use of power
involves ethical decision-making and fair treatment of stakeholders.
Integration of Corporate and Social Objectives in Mission Statement:
Apple’s mission emphasizes innovation and enriching lives through technology.
Integrating social objectives involves ensuring environmental sustainability. It also includes
5
ethical sourcing and societal impact. Apple’s Environmental Initiatives exemplify its CSR efforts
(Dean, 2023). The company invests in renewable energy and reduces its carbon footprint.
Besides these actions, it also develops products with recyclable materials. This matches its
commitment to environmental sustainability.
Assessment of CSR/Management Activity:
Apple assesses its Corporate Social Responsibility efforts via sustainability reports. It
conducts environmental impact evaluations and supplier audits. These evaluations encompass
vital metrics like carbon emissions, energy consumption, waste minimization, and supplier
adherence to ethical practices. Its comprehensive assessments allow the company to gauge the
effectiveness of its CSR endeavours. This ensures that these efforts match with the
environmental goals, ethical sourcing, and sustainability objectives.
Apple reinforces its commitment to responsible business practices by assessing these
metrics (Dean, 2023). Successfully evaluating them fosters transparency, accountability, and
continual improvement in its social and environmental initiatives. Apple’s management practices
involve integrating sustainability goals into business strategies. It also requires collaborating with
suppliers to ensure ethical practices. Other practices are investing in renewable energy and
educating consumers about responsible product usage.
Impact of Resources on Governments and Societies:
The impact of Apple’s resources extends to governments. This includes advocating for
favourable policies supporting innovation, trade, and intellectual property rights. Societies
benefit through job creation, technological advancements, and community investment.
Government regulations impact Apple’s operations. For instance, environmental regulations
6
drive the company’s green initiatives. This not only results in higher compliance costs but also
fosters sustainable practices beneficial to society.
7
References
Apple. (2022, March 30). Apple launches $50 million Supplier Employee Development Fund.
Apple. https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/03/apple-launches-50-million-supplieremployee-development-fund/.
Dean, M. (2023). Apple Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability.
Thomasnet.com. https://www.thomasnet.com/articles/other/applecsr/#:~:text=As%20one%20of%20the%20first,the%20end%20of%20the%20decade.
Kothawade, A. (2023, October 16). Apple’s unwavering commitment to innovation,
sustainability, and vision. Medium. https://medium.com/@ak10165/apples-unwaveringcommitment-to-innovation-sustainability-and-vision-f772c20e64b6.
Leswing, K. (2021, November 13). Apple’s ad privacy change impact shows the power it wields
over other industries. CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2021/11/13/apples-privacy-changesshow-the-power-it-holds-over-other-industries.html.
Podolny, J. M., & Hansen, M. T. (2020, November 1). How Apple is organized for innovation.
Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2020/11/how-apple-is-organized-forinnovation.
1
Corporate Social Responsibility Activities
Becquerel Brown-Smith
Columbia Southern University
Course BUS 7301
Professor Aubry
12/5/2023
2
Part I: Corporate Social Responsibility Activities
Contrast Ethical Managerial Decisions and Priorities:
Apple Inc. has displayed a commitment to ethical decision-making. The commitment
matches its core priorities of innovation, environmental sustainability, and stakeholder
considerations. The company emphasizes innovation in creating innovative technology while
remaining conscious of environmental impacts and stakeholders’ interests. For instance, Apple’s
decision to transition towards renewable energy sources for its operations reflects its
commitment to environmental sustainability. What is more, the managerial responsibilities at
Apple firmly match ethical guidelines. The company ensures fair treatment of stakeholders by
providing a conducive work environment for employees. It offers competitive compensation and
prioritizes their growth opportunities. Environmental consciousness is evident through initiatives
like reducing carbon footprint and developing products with recyclable materials.
Managerial Decision-Making Related to Global Activities:
Apple Inc.’s managerial decisions related to global CSR activities and global expansion
are strategic. Three specific decisions include the supply chain ethical audits. Apple conducts
rigorous audits across its global supply chain to ensure ethical practices, fair labor conditions,
and environmental sustainability (Nikoofal & Gümüş, 2020). These audits support the
company’s global expansion by ensuring consistent ethical standards worldwide. Secondly, the
decisions include international community engagement. The company engages in various
community initiatives globally. It supports education programs and encourages environmental
projects and social welfare. This decision aids global CSR activities and promotes positive
relationships with diverse communities.
3
Lastly, sustainable product innovation is another way the decisions relate to the global
CRS activities. The company’s focus on developing sustainable products and promoting
responsible usage supports its global CSR initiatives (Lu et al., 2023). These innovations help
expand into new markets while addressing societal concerns about environmental impact. These
decisions support Apple’s globalization strategies by fostering positive relationships in different
regions. This ensures ethical compliance throughout the supply chain. It also matches the values
of various global societies.
Incorporation of Organization’s and Global Society’s Needs in CSR Actions:
Apple Inc.’s CSR actions effectively balance the organization’s needs with the larger
global society’s requirements. The company addresses global concerns and societal
responsibilities through CSR initiatives. Firstly, Apple’s commitment to reducing carbon
emissions addresses global environmental concerns. They invest in renewable energy and
develop eco-friendly products (Sengupta & Penney, 2020). Secondly, the company’s supplier
responsibility program ensures fair labor conditions across its global supply chain. This reflects
its dedication to societal responsibilities. Finally, Apple contributes positively to society through
community projects and educational initiatives. It matches its CSR actions with global societal
needs. Considering the environmental impact, ethical labor practices and community engagement
help Apple meet the organization’s needs. It also helps the company meet the needs of the larger
global society through its CSR actions.
Part II: Stakeholder Relationships and Governmental Interactions
Relationship between Organizational Political Strategies and Corporate Strategies:
Apple Inc.’s political strategies show a close link with its corporate strategy. This
expression of the close link is because the company engages in lobbying, advancing policy
4
advocacy, and global government relations. These efforts give it substantial influence over the
company’s decisions. For example, Apple’s lobbying endeavors are targeted at securing
favorable policies that bolster innovation. It also supports policies safeguarding intellectual
property rights (Khalid & Viktoria, 2023). This helps to align with its overarching corporate
strategy. It actively engages in shaping policies conducive to technological progress. Through
this, Apple strategically fosters an environment that nurtures innovation. This enables the
company to maintain its pioneering role in the tech industry. This strategic alignment between
political endeavors and corporate vision highlights how Apple tactically integrates political
strategies to fortify its broader business objectives.
Challenges in Managing Business-Government Relationships:
Apple Inc. faces challenges in cultivating relationships with governments. The challenges
relate to regulatory compliance, evolving policies, and geopolitical dynamics. Navigating diverse
regulatory landscapes worldwide demands significant resources and adaptability. Adapting to
varied regulatory frameworks leads to complexities and substantial compliance expenses.
Moreover, continuous policy shifts and geopolitical dynamics compromise Apple’s operations. It
demands continual adjustments and adherence to ensure compliance across diverse global
jurisdictions. Balancing these challenges while upholding regulatory standards poses a
continuous hurdle for Apple operations and strategic planning.
Stakeholder Types and Influence on Managerial Decision-Making:
Apple Inc. engages with a spectrum of stakeholders. Some of these stakeholders include
employees, customers, shareholders, suppliers, communities, regulatory bodies, and interest
groups. The board of directors holds substantial sway in steering managerial decisions among
these stakeholders (Lu et al., 2023). Their strategic directives lead to significant influence. The
5
influence guides the company’s trajectory in pivotal areas like corporate social responsibility,
global expansion initiatives, and ethical conduct. The board’s oversight shapes Apple’s
overarching strategies. It impacts critical decisions related to sustainability, expansion into new
markets, and the establishment of ethical business practices. Their guidance sets the tone for
Apple’s approach to addressing societal concerns.
Role of Board of Directors in Global CSR Decisions and Corporate Influence:
Apple Inc.’s board of directors plays a pivotal role in making decisions related to global
CSR. They set directives and provide oversight on CSR initiatives. It ensures matching the
company’s values and strategic goals. Corporations, including Apple Inc., leverage their board
directives and strategic decisions to influence global CSR behaviors. The board’s guidance
shapes the company’s ethical practices, sustainability initiatives, and community engagement
efforts globally. In conclusion, Apple Inc.’s commitment to CSR activities reflects a cohesive
approach to ethical business practices and global responsibility. This applies to its efforts to
make strategic decisions related to global activities and its management of stakeholder
relationships and governmental interactions. Its stakeholders play a crucial role in determining
the level of commitment.
6
References
Khalid, M. A., & Viktoria, D. V. (2023). Strategic Marketing Plan for Apple Inc.
https://papers.ssrn.com/abstract=4493889.
Lu, W.-M., Kweh, Q. L., Ting, I. W. K., & Ren, C. (2023). How does stakeholder engagement
through environmental, social, and governance affect eco‐efficiency and profitability
efficiency? Zooming into Apple Inc.’s counterparts. Business Strategy and the
Environment, 32(1), 587–601. https://doi.org/10.1002/bse.3162.
Nikoofal, M. E., & Gümüş, M. (2020). Value of audit for supply chains with hidden action and
information. European Journal of Operational Research, 285(3), 902–915.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejor.2020.02.024.
Sengupta, S., & Penney, V. (2020, July 21). Big tech has a big climate problem. Now, it’s being
forced to clean up. The New York Times.
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/21/climate/apple-emissions-pledge.html.
Purchase answer to see full
attachment
