Overview Of Management

Primary Functions of Management

A management staff list for Kudler Fine Foods is located on the organizational chart located on their intranet link. This group is classified into three categories - strategic, tactical and operational management expertise. These individuals are responsible for developing the strategic course of the business, relaying this information to the middle managers who in turn rely on the operational managers to implement these strategies successfully. Kathy Kudler directs the strategy of the team since she is the founder of the company. She relies on her other directors or tactical managers to assist in creating business plans for their respective areas - Finance & Accounting, Store Operations, and Administration & Human Resources. Each of these areas serves as an intricate part of the inner workings and success of Kudler. The communication process needs to be clear and concise to ensure the strategies are disseminated as designed to meet the goals of the company. Communication barriers or the slightest sign of miscommunication may result in inaccurate forecasting results for the company. Kathy's front line management group consists of her purchasing manager, inventory manager, and store managers. They are the group that handles the day to day operations of the stores.

Technology and the Internet

Technology and the internet play a vital role in the business strategies and progression of Kudler Fine Foods. New initiatives are developed through information technology in the course of research and development as new products are rolled out. Introducing cooking classes to customers so they get a better understanding of how to use these specialized products is essential for customers. This benefits Kudler Fine Foods by providing a service that sets them apart from the competitor. Kathy Kudler as well as the director of Store Operations needs to make sure they review the participation results of these classes. Some areas may have more participation which will result in a recalculation of how many classes need to be offered in lower participation areas to maximize both time and financial impact for that location.

Marketing and advertising strategies are also important communication avenues Kathy needs to review to determine best course of action. In addition, Kathy's director of finance can provide useful information on how successful the different modes of advertising has been in the past such as radio, television other events and sponsorships in which they have participated in the community. Store managers will have a good gauge of impacts on advertising strategies since they will be able to obtain actual comments from consumers.

Marketing reseach efforts are also an important gauge to determine impact of strategies implemented by Kudler Fine Foods. Being able to conduct actual studies on consumer feedback will provide real life statistical information that can be utilized through their information technology system and analyzed by their finance and operational management teams.

Examples of Porter's Model

It is imperative that Kudler Fine Foods internal management team understands and addresses the industry challenges to improve their competitive advantage.

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