Final answer:
In strategic planning, analyzing the internal environment of a company is important to assess a product's market demand, production process, pricing strategy, and labor requirements. An example using Unilever products includes Dove soap (market demand), Ben & Jerry's ice cream (production process), Lux shampoo (pricing strategy), and Lipton tea bags (labor requirements).
Step-by-step explanation:
In strategic planning, a company analyzes its internal environment to assess the strengths and weaknesses of its products or services. When considering a consumer goods company like Unilever, there are four key aspects to consider in the product environmental analysis matrix:
- Market Demand: Determines whether there is a strong need or desire for the product. For example, Unilever's Dove soap has consistent market demand due to its established brand and product quality.
- Production Process: Relates to how efficiently and effectively the product is produced. Unilever's Ben & Jerry's ice cream would fall here, as the production process emphasizes sustainable sourcing and social responsibility.
- Pricing Strategy: Involves setting a competitive price that reflects the value of the product. Unilever's Lux shampoo might use a competitive pricing strategy to appeal to a broad consumer base.
- Labor Requirements: Considers the amount and skill level of labor needed to produce the product. A product like Unilever's Lipton tea bags requires a certain level of workforce for the packaging and distribution process.
These aspects help a company like Unilever identify where a product stands in terms of its overall value proposition and competitive edge.