3 questions are in the attached pics. (Video link:https://youtu.be/3PpqTJ4IENM) Born to Grow Two of the most important concepts, not only in marketing, but in business, are analysis (via the SWOT tool) and strategic growth (via Ansoff’s Growth Matrix). Organizations are born to grow. Those that do not follow through on this pull of inertia are destined to fail. Growth, though, is often haphazardly implemented by founders, managers, or entrepreneurs who fail to connect the findings of SWOT with a well-thought-out growth strategy. We’ve covered the four main components of SWOT; we look now at the four main components of the growth matrix, once again using Side Launch as our storyline. Three years into Side Launch’s existence, founder Garnet Pratt encountered the type of good problem most entrepreneurs dream about—demand for her company’s beer was soaring, and growth opportunities seemed to be everywhere. Sales of Side Launch had grown 100 percent in each of those years, and at the time of this writing, it was poised to grow by another 40 percent year over year from 2016 to 2017. “That is staggering growth,” she said, “to be growing at 40 percent when the industry is growing at 20 percent. And we have all been feeling it, but it is a good problem to have. I’d rather that than having a bunch of beer in the refrigerator that won’t sell.” Keeping up with increasing demand for the four core brands created by Side Launch—Wheat, Pale Ale, Dark Lager, and Mountain Lager—will, by default, result in growth by market penetration. “At this point, it’s the only logical strategy,” asserts Dave Sands, VP Operations. “And with these four core beers, we have covered a large cross-section of craft beer consumers,” chimes in brewer Michael Hancock. Side Launch also realizes that other growth strategies exist. “We develop new flavour profiles regularly throughout the year in limited quantities,” explains Michael. Technically, this is product development strategy, but in the case of Side Launch, it is more about living up to brand and category DNA than it is a deliberate attempt to grow. The exquisitely on-brand names of these specially produced beers, “The Ships of Collingwood” and “Man Overboard,” show leadership and innovation as a brewer. “It’s important that we don’t chase trends,” rationalizes Michael, “but at the same time it is important, there’s no question, for a reputable craft brewer to be innovative, while at the same time being grounded in the traditional values which result in a really good-tasting beer.” “It’s easy in any consumer goods business to get caught up in chasing trends and growing at the peril of your core portfolio,” explains Dave. “Ultimately, whether you’re big or small, you have to do both. Take care of the products that got you to where you are and pay the bills, but be open and forward looking to what’s next.” The brewery’s operations manager then makes an interesting comparison between brewing beer and preparing food. “I look at production brewing [of the four core Side Launch brands] like baking—proven recipes and ingredients, precisely controlled, deliberate, time consuming, and let’s face it, not very sexy or exciting if you do it right. The product development is like cooking. Taking an idea, finding some ingredients we like, tinkering, testing, adjusting, and hopefully ending up with something tasty. But this is a small-volume opportunity.” For now, the Side Launch strategy of expanding its share within that growing craft beer market seems the only logical strategy. The linkage here between SWOT and the growth matrix can thus be summed up by Garnet’s description of her brand’s greatest strength—“Being true to style and authentic”—and by Michael’s identification of the opportunity—“The market for craft is huge and growing and just waiting to be tapped, when you consider the core number of craft consumers, and those in transition.” Extracting your biggest findings from SWOT will almost always lead you to the most viable and profitable strategy for growth.

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.