1. Below is a list of corporate objectives, culled from annual reports. Critique the objectives and determine if they meet S.M.A.R.T. guidelines. For every objective that does not meet the criteria, indicate why and rewrite the objective.
Starbucks: "In fiscal 2006, we plan to open approximately 1,800 net new stores globally."
Walgreens: "Second is to hire a significant number of people with disabilities in our South Carolina distribution center, scheduled to open in 2007, and achieve 20% productivity gains there."
UPS: "65% of drivers will have access to the new technology (implemented in 2004) by the end of 2005." and "In 2005, we will increase operating profit in each of our 3 key businesses: U.S. domestic, international, and supply chain."
Wrigley's: "In 2005, the company will decrease the long-term rate of return assumption for the assets of its U.S. (pension) plans from 8.75 % to 8.5%."
Halliburton: "We estimate that 74% of the backlog existing on 12/31 will be eliminated the following fiscal year."
Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia: "In 2004 we will discontinue the Catalog for Living and its online product options, and sell remaining inventory in early fiscal 2005."
2. Conduct a Situational Analysis on yourself or an organization through a SWOT Analysis