Analyze the strategy in each of the periods you identified by determining if the changes led to a better or worse strategic position for Starbucks. In other words, given the changes in the various elements, was Starbucks better or worse off from a strategic perspective (i.e. did their competitive advantages improve or suffer?) Remember that all five elements need to be aligned (i.e., congruent and coherent)—that’s how we determine whether a given strategy works (i.e., strategic decisions or activities cannot be in conflict with one another or the competitive environment).
Apply any other strategic tool/model as necessary to inform your analysis or strengthen your argument.
Always explain the reasoning behind your conclusions.