Overview

In this assignment, you are to use the same corporation you selected and focused on for Assignment 1.

Using the corporation you chose from Assignment 1: Strategic Management and Strategic Competitiveness, examine the industry in which the entity operates. Use any or all of the following resources to conduct research on the company:

• Company website.
• Public filings from the Securities and Exchange Commission EDGAR database.
• Strayer University’s online databases.
• The Nexis Uni database,
• Other miscellaneous sources. Note: the company’s annual report will often provide insights that other resources may not include.

Requirements

Write a four- to six-page paper in which you do the following:

• Choose the two segments of the general environment that would rank highest in their influence on the corporation you chose. Assess how these segments affect the corporation you chose and the industry in which it operates.
• Considering the five forces of competition, choose two forces of competition that you estimate are the most significant for the corporation you chose. Evaluate how well the company has addressed these forces in the recent past.
• With the same two forces in mind, predict what the company might do to improve its ability to address these forces in the near future.
• Assess the external threats affecting this corporation and the opportunities available to the corporation. Give your opinions on how the corporation should deal with the most serious threat and the greatest opportunity. Justify your answer.
• Give your opinion on the corporation’s greatest strengths and most significant weaknesses. Choose the strategy or tactic the corporation should select to take maximum advantage of its strengths, and the strategy or tactic the corporation should select to fix its most significant weakness. Justify your choices.
• Determine the company’s resources, capabilities, and core competencies.
• Go to Basic Search: Strayer University Online Library to locate quality references. Note: Wikipedia and similar websites do not qualify as academic resources. 

Your assignment must follow these formatting requirements:

• This course requires use of new Strayer Writing Standards (SWS). The format is different than other Strayer University courses. Please take a moment to review the SWS documentation for details.
• Be typed, double spaced, using Times New Roman font (size 12), with one-inch margins on all sides; references must follow SWS or school-specific format. Check with your professor for any additional instructions.
• Include a cover page containing the title of the assignment, the student’s name, the professor’s name, the course title, and the date. The cover page and the reference page are not included in the required page length. 

Use the

Assignment 2 Template [DOC]

to ensure that your assignment meets the above requirements.

The specific course learning outcome associated with this assignment is as follows:

• Analyze the effects of the general environment, competition, threats, opportunities, strengths, and weaknesses relative to a corporation.

1

8

Week 6 Assignment 2

Student’s Full Name

BUS499 Business Administration Capstone

Professor’s Name

Date

Template Instructions (delete this page before submitting)

This template is provided to help you meet the assignment requirements.

This page should NOT be submitted with your assignment, as it is not part of an academically written paper. Note the “Clarity, writing mechanics, and formatting requirements” section of the grading rubric.

HOW TO USE THIS TEMPLATE

· Read the explanations provided in the template for each section of your paper.
· The explanations are in blue font below.
· You should have already read the assignment instructions in Blackboard.
· Type your response to each of the assignment requirements within the designated sections.
· Each assignment requirement is identified using a section Heading that is in black font
· DO NOT add extra spaces between sections.
· DO NOT change the margins.
· You are required to have a heading for each of the sections in your paper.
· The required headings have been provided for you.
· Follow the instructions below to customize the Headings as directed.
· DO NOT type the assignment instructions into the sections.
· After typing your responses, change the font color to black and make sure it is not in bold.
· Be sure to change the font color on the title page to black after typing your name, professor’s name, and date.

· Everything in blue font below should be deleted and replaced with your responses.
· DELETE this entire page before you submit your assignment to avoid losing points.

REMINDERS

· The assignment is due in week 6. Late submissions negatively impact your grade.
· Use the same public corporation you used for assignment 1.

· Include at least 4 full and complete academically written pages that address the requirements. The title page, this instruction page, and the source page do not count.

· Use at least 3 quality sources, one of which MUST be the course textbook.
· Strayer uses SafeAssign – an automated plagiarism checker. It is advised that you do your own writing and use external resources to support what you have written in your own words.

Week 6 Assignment 2
Write your introduction here. Include one (1) paragraph (not more than 6 lines of text) that explains what your paper will discuss. Much of your introduction may be taken from the assignment instructions (in your own words). Read all assignment resources to understand what should be included in your paper. Be sure to review the assignment instructions in Blackboard, the grading rubric, and relevant course announcements to understand the requirements. Do not exceed 6 lines of text in this introduction. There should be no direct quotes in this section. After reading these instructions, replace this blue text with your introduction and change the font color to black.

General Environment

In this section you will choose the two (2) segments of the general environment that would rank highest in their influence on the public corporation you chose for assignment 1. You must select from the segments discussed in the course. Hint: see table 2.1 in the textbook. Do not assess all the segments—only assess the two (2) segments that rank highest in influencing your corporation. You will then assess how these segments affect the corporation and the industry in which it operates. There are two (2) subsections below, each has a heading. The heading “Segment 1” should be changed to the first segment of the general environment you select. The heading “Segment 2” should be changed to the second segment of the general environment you select. Replace this paragraph with a very brief introduction that includes the identification of the two (2) segments of the general environment you selected and change the font color to black.

Segment 1

This subsection is where you assess the first of the two (2) segments of the general environment you think ranks highest in its influence on the public corporation you chose for assignment 1. Change the subheading for this section, which currently says “Segment 1” to the name of the selected segment. Assess how this segment affects the corporation and the industry in which it operates. Remember that to assess a concept, you will weigh all aspects to judge the importance or relevance of that concept. Do not simply define the segment.

Your assessment should demonstrate that you have read, understand, and can apply the concepts covered in the course resources regarding the segment. Your writing here should thoroughly assess how the selected segment influences your corporation. Do not write about the general environment in general terms. Your assessment should be directly related to your selected corporation. A thorough assessment is defined as providing a complete response that is not superficial or partial regarding the various details of the concepts as described in the course. You will need to apply and incorporate key concepts from the course material to your assessment. Do not Google “segments of the general environment” or provide high-level summaries. You must display, in specific detail, an understanding based on what is studied in this course and demonstrate your ability to apply the concepts in a real-world assessment of a corporation. Read chapter 2 in the course textbook. Review the Week 2 Learn video/Lecture for supporting content. Properly cite your sources and avoid the use of direct quotes. After reading these instructions, replace this blue text with your assessment and change the font color to black.

Segment 2

This subsection is where you assess the second of the two (2) segments of the general environment you selected. Change the subheading for this section, which currently says “Segment 2” to the name of the selected segment of the general environment that would rank highest in its influence on the public corporation you chose for assignment 1. Repeat the evaluation instructions provided in the “Segment 1” subsection above for this second segment of the general environment. Re-read the instructions above to ensure you have covered all of the requirements for this second segment of the general environment. After completing this section, replace this blue text with your evaluation and change the font color to black.

Five Forces of Competition

In this section you will consider the five (5) forces of competition and choose the two (2) that you estimate are the most significant for the corporation you chose in assignment 1. Hint: see figure 2.2 in the textbook. You will then, evaluate how well the company has addressed each of these two (2) forces in the recent past. There are two (2) subsections below, each has a heading. The heading “Force 1” should be changed to the first of the two forces of competition you select. The heading “Force 2” should be changed to the second of the two forces of competition you select. Replace this paragraph with a very brief introduction that includes the identification of the two (2) forces of competition you selected and change the font color to black.

Force 1

This subsection is where you evaluate the first of two (2) forces of competition that you estimate to be the most significant to the corporation you chose. Change the subheading for this section, which currently says “Force 1” to the name of your selected force. Provide a thorough assessment of why you think the selected force is significant to your corporation. A thorough assessment is defined as providing a complete response that is not superficial or partial regarding the various details of the concept as described in the course. Do not Google “five forces of competition” or simply provide a definition. You will need to apply and incorporate key concepts from the course material in your assessment.

Evaluate how well the company addressed the selected force in the recent past. This will require some research. Remember that to evaluate a concept, you will break down all components to determine or analyze facts, value, or views. Your evaluation should demonstrate that you have read, understand, and can apply the concepts covered in the textbook and course resources. Do not write about the selected force in general terms. Your evaluation should be directly related to your selected corporation and include a thorough evaluation of how the company has addressed the force recently. You must display an understanding based on what is studied in this course and demonstrate an ability to apply the concepts in a real-world evaluation of a corporation. You will need to read the chapters and listen to the lectures to understand the key concepts for each force. Read chapter 2 in the course textbook and review the Week 2 Learn video Lecture for supporting content. Cite all sources and limit the use of direct quotes. After reading these instructions, replace this blue text with your evaluation and change the font color to black.

Force 2

Choose another one (1) of the five (5) forces of competition that you estimate to be the most significant for the corporation you chose. This should not be the same force assessed in the “Force 1” section above. Change the subheading for this section, which currently says “Force 2” to the name of the selected force. This subsection is where you evaluate the second of the two forces of competition that you selected. Repeat the evaluation instructions provided in the “Force 1” subsection above for this second force of competition. Re-read the instructions above to ensure you have covered all of the requirements for this second force of competition. After completing this section, replace this blue text with your evaluation and change the font color to black.

Future Improvements

With the same two (2) forces assessed and evaluated in the previous two (2) sub-sections above, predict what the company might do to improve its ability to address the forces in the near future. Your writing here should provide a thorough prediction of what the company should do to address impacts from the selected forces. Do not simply discuss company information published by your sources. This section should be your prediction of what the corporation should do. Your prediction should be your own, not predictions or recommendations from your sources or actions your corporation has already taken or plans to take. Remember that a thorough evaluation is defined as providing a complete response that is not superficial or partial regarding the various details of the concepts as described in the course. Your prediction should be specific to your selected corporation, relevant to the evaluation you conducted, and directly related to improvements the corporation could make to address the two forces you selected in the two (2) sub-sections above. Read chapter 2 in the course textbook and review the Week 2 Learn video Lecture for supporting content. Cite your sources and avoid the use of direct quotes. After reading these instructions, replace this blue text with your prediction and change the font color to black.

Greatest External Threat

Identify what you consider to be the greatest external threat to the corporation you selected. The threat should be specific to your corporation. Justify why you consider the threat to be the greatest. Support your justification with an assessment of the impact the threat has on the corporation. For example, your justification could include a comparison of other threats or an evaluation of facts that support the magnitude of the threat’s impact. Follow this justification with aa discussion on how the corporation should address the threat. Specifically describe the strategy and provide a justification that supports why you believe the strategy will be successful in combating the threat. This section must include both a clearly identified external threat and a clearly articulated action\strategy the corporation should take to address the threat. Do not write in general terms. Your writing here should be specific and incorporate the course concepts relating to threats and the external environment. Read chapter 2 in the course textbook as it provides a solid background for this section. Review the Week 2 Learn video/Lecture for supporting content. Cite your sources and avoid the use of direct quotes. After reading these instructions, replace this blue text with your response and change the font color to black.

Greatest Opportunity

Identify what you consider to be the greatest opportunity to the corporation you selected. The opportunity should be specific to your corporation. Justify why you consider the opportunity to be the greatest. Support your justification with an assessment of the impact the opportunity could have on the corporation. For example, your justification could include a comparison of other opportunities or an evaluation of facts that support the magnitude of the opportunity’s impact. Follow this justification with a discussion on how the corporation could best take advantage of the opportunity. Specifically describe the strategy and provide a justification that supports why you believe the strategy will be successful in adding value to the corporation. This section must include both a clearly identified opportunity and a clearly articulated action the corporation should take to take advantage of the opportunity. Do not write in general terms. Your writing here should be specific and incorporate the course concepts relating to opportunities and the external environment. Read chapter 2 in the course textbook as it provides a solid background for this section. Review the Week 2 Learn video/Lecture for supporting content. Cite your sources and avoid the use of direct quotes. After reading these instructions, replace this blue text with your response and change the font color to black.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Give your opinion on the corporation’s greatest strengths and most significant weaknesses. Keep in mind that strengths and weaknesses are internal to the organization (i.e. the internal environment). You will need to address both the greatest strengths and most significant weaknesses. Do not choose one or the other. Both the greatest strengths and most significant weaknesses must be addressed. Do not write in general terms. The identified strengths and weaknesses should be specific to your selected corporation. Include a justification that supports your opinions. This section must include both clearly identified strengths and clearly identified weaknesses. Read Chapter 2 and 3 in the course textbook as it provides a solid background for this section. Review the Week 2 and Week 3 Learn video/Lecture for supporting content. Cite your sources and avoid the use of direct quotes. After reading these instructions, replace this blue text with your application and change the font color to black.

Strategy or Tactic

Choose the strategies or tactics the corporation should select to take maximum advantage of the strengths you identified in the section above, and the strategies or tactics the corporation should select to fix the most significant weaknesses you identified. You will need to select strategies/tactics for both the strengths and weaknesses. Do not choose one or the other. Strategies/tactics for both the strengths and weaknesses must be addressed. Justify your choices. Your justifications should be sound and thoroughly explained. For example, do not simply state that the corporation should choose a selected strategy, but rather explain why the strategy is a good choice for your corporations’ specific strengths or weaknesses. Read Chapter 2 and 3 in the course textbook as it provides a solid background for this section. Review the Week 2 and Week 3 Learn video/Lecture for supporting content. Cite your sources and avoid the use of direct quotes. After reading these instructions, replace this blue text with your responses and change the font color to black.

Resources, Capabilities, and Core Competencies

Determine the company’s resources, capabilities, and core competencies. Your determination should include an explanation of the relevance of each resource, capability, and core competency. Do not simply list the resources, capabilities, and core competencies. Remember that a thorough determination will provide a complete response that is not superficial or partial regarding the various details of the concepts as described in the course. Use your course materials to demonstrate your understanding of the key course concepts regarding resources, capabilities, and core competencies. Do not write in general terms. Your determination should display that you can apply the course concepts to your selected corporation.
R
ead Chapter 3 in the course textbook as it provides a solid background to this section. Review the Week 3 Learn video/Lecture for supporting content. Cite your sources and avoid the use of direct quotes. After reading these instructions, replace this blue text with your determination and change the font color to black.

Sources

1. Hitt, Ireland, & Hoskisson. 2020. Strategic management: Concepts and cases: Competitiveness and globalization (13th ed.). Mason, OH: South-Western Cengage Learning

2. Author. Publication Date. Title. Page # (written as p. #). How to Find (e.g. web address)

3. Author. Publication Date. Title. Page # (written as p. #). How to Find (e.g. web address)

Running Head: STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT AND STRATEGIC COMPETITIVENESS 1

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT AND STRATEGIC COMPETITIVENESS 2

Strategic Management and Strategic Competitiveness

By

Institution

Lecturer

Date

Strategic Management and Strategic Competitiveness

This essay explores a public corporation and how globalization and technological changes have had an impact on it. The industrial organization model and resource-based model will be applied to show how they would help the company earn above-average returns. An analysis of how the company’s vision and mission statement influence its overall success will be given. Lastly, the impact of every stakeholder on the institution’s overall success will also be analyzed.

Apple is one of the top multinational companies which is specialized in designing, developing, and manufacturing electronic equipment. Such equipment includes mobile phones, software, and computers. Globalization has played a considerable part in the growth of Apple in the industry worldwide. Globalization is the concept in which different economies have amalgamated to reduce barriers of international trade such as tariffs, the fees related to exports, and quotas on imports. It is due to such circumstances that have enabled Apple products to penetrate different markets in the world. Apple is a leader in innovation and creativity; hence it needs enormous investments in its workforce. They also require investments in the machines they use in production. Apple has employed strategies that utilize outsourcing, and that has assisted the company in achieving unmeasurable success to lead in offering quality products to its clients. For instance, globalization has affected the company’s business strategy. Due to the increased market and demand for apple products, customization has been done in applying the differentiation strategy. Thus, Apple has led in the production of electronics, software, and phones which have exclusive features (Sohail, 2017). To enable such, the company has heavily capitalized in research and development to reap more in the technological field.

Globalization has also had an impact on the operations and employment practices of the company. Due to the ability to access different markets, the company has managed to subcontract production plants in different parts of the world. Therefore, it has prospered in the manufacture of products and launched them in new markets. On employment, Apple has succeeded to attract talented, committed, and innovative staff members across the world. This pool of workers has helped the organization to achieve its objectives due to innovation hence leading in the technological industry. Globalization has also had an effect on the products and services provided. International markets require quality products and services from institutions. Through partnerships with different producers in the world market, Apple has used outsourcing and subcontracted suppliers to supply various components to make their products attractive and different. Globalization has also affected the company’s resources and maximization of profit. The company has been able to access the best human resources in the globe. The company also spends a significant amount of capital to increase the acquisition of capital and other production factors. Going global has enhanced the market share of Apple, which has enabled it to maximize profits. The distinct market position earned by apple is due to the marketing campaigns it has been carrying out (Sohail, 2017). This has helped Apple to gain a devoted customer base throughout the world, which has enhanced its brand equity. Thus, the company enjoys a favorable brand reputation in many countries around the globe.

Lastly, the company has to cater to the needs of its client base spread across the education sector, governments, small and medium enterprises, and large corporations. To ensure every quota is served, the company employs direct and indirect distribution channels, which also includes online sales services, retail stores, direct sales, and third-party retailers (Sohail, 2017). The company has ensured that every potential customer of their products can access them easily worldwide without struggle, and that has been enabled by globalization.

Technological changes had an impact on Apple because it produced products that led to disruption in the technological industry. For instance, the manufacture of the iPhone provided users a gadget that was different from those that existed. The device had touch controls, and it was a breakthrough internet communication device. It is due to advancements in technology that Apple has decided to make products with unique features from those of competitors through the exploration of technology within the existing technology area. The innovative nature of the company through its workforce has been enabled by changes in technology hence making it be the leading innovative company.

Apple can use the industrial organization model to maintain a considerable stake in the market. This model ensures that the competition pool is small, creates barriers to entry, and assists the company in assessing the competitor’s next steps. On limiting competition, apple can undertake some actions which can affect its market. The move will ensure that few competitors take part, which will enable it to control the market. For instance, if Apple decided to manufacture quality products with unique features targeting the majority of the clients, they would edge out their competitors. By doing this, they would be required to reduce the price of their products while maintaining the quality to attract more potential clients. That action would drive away many competitors who manufacture low-quality products and sell them at low prices. The sales of Apple products would rise significantly because many people could afford their products, and they would earn above-average returns. Apple can also create a barrier to entry in some markets, and that can limit the number of competitors in the market entering. Entry can be barred to other competitors by Apple by striking a deal with a nation to relocate its facilities.

Consequently, Apple would offer employment and profit the local economy and can strike an agreement ensuring another rival has problems starting up shop in the area. Through that, less competition is guaranteed, and Apple can gain footing through the country’s economic and political infrastructure. Lastly, apple can earn above-average returns by predicting the actions of their competitors. This is done using the game theory, which consists of the competitors and the limited decisions they can make. Through the use of matrices and tree diagrams, Apple can evaluate its next moves by simulating the rival’s selections and the probable results of the choices (Mate, 2017). Knowledge of the rival’s next possible steps can determine how Apple will interact with its competitors. After knowing the competitor’s moves, the company can understand that it can be best to pre-empt the market and make the first strategic move, which will beat the competitor.

Consequently, the resource-based model can also help an organization earn above-average returns. The resources, in this case, are strategic resources owned by an organization, which allows developing a competitive advantage over the rivals. The vital resources refer to those which are rare, hard to imitate, and are unique and cannot be substituted. Apple can benefit immensely by making products that are difficult to imitate, valuable, and rare. Such products can only be attained through numerous innovations and improvements on existing technologies. The use of a business model that is focused on strategic resources can help the company record-high profits. The vital resources which are rare or valuable are due to the high cost of acquiring them or their scarcity (Edwards, 2019). Apple can leverage its innovative nature and create never seen before products that are not easy to obtain and cannot be imitated. Thus, people will strive to purchase the products for their use, and that will enable the company to attain high-profit margins compared to competitors since they are the only manufactures of the much-sought products.

Apple’s corporate mission has been changing over time. The company is considerate of the changing business landscape, which influences what the organization can do. Apple is conscious of the changes in the market and industry environment. The current mission statement states that the company designs Macs, which are the best personal computers world over along with OS X, iWork, and iLife and professional software. It says that it leads in the digital music revolution with the iPods and iTunes online store. There has also been a reinvention of mobile phones using the iPhone and App store, and it is defining the mobile media future and computing gadgets with iPad (Rowland, 2019). This mission statement is in line with the company’s objective to be the leading player in the technology sector. It has revamped its mobile phones, its software, and personal computers, which increase client experience compared to those of competitors. The company also wants to stamp its authority in the field of creativity and innovation through the creation of unique and quality products.

The vision statement of Apple mirrors its mission statement. According to their leader Tim Cook, the vision of the company is to make great products, hence the constant focus on innovation. The company believes in creating simple and not complex products, and they feel they have to control the primary technology behind the products they produce. Through globalization, the company wishes to participate in markets where they can make significant contributions. The focus of the organization is on a few projects which are essential and meaningful to them. The company employs collaboration among its staff members, which allows them to innovate differently than its competitors. The company does not settle for anything less than success to maintain the leading status while providing quality and unique products to its clients (Rowland, 2019). Both the mission statement and the vision statement show that Apple has its eyes fixed on success due to the quality and uniqueness of the products they manufacture. These statements guide the company’s actions to ensure they remain unbeaten.

Apple has different stakeholders ranging from employees, suppliers, governments, media, customers, and competitors. All these stakeholders have an impact on the overall success of the organization. The employees are the ones mandated to carry day to day activities in the corporation to manufacture the products used by clients. They are the ones prescribed to be creative and innovative to create unique and quality products. Hence, the success of the products in the hands of the clients is pegged on them. They have to ensure they maximize the resources provided to give what the client needs and edge competitors. Suppliers are also very essential in the corporation because they supply components used to manufacture the products. A go slow, or any misunderstanding with the suppliers can cripple day to day activities in the corporation because components used to make the products will not be availed. Governments in which Apple Company operates also influence its operations. For instance, regulations placed on companies such as tax, tariffs will affect the overall performance of the organization. Favorable government regulations will influence the success of the company, while punitive decisions will hurt the business and can lead to closure or retrenchments. The media is also a massive pillar in the success of the organization. When the media run negative stories about Apple, it dents its image and reputation. A company with a dented reputation does not attract clients or partnerships from other players. Hence, positive media coverage of Apple will ensure the company is successful because many people would want to be associated with its mannerisms or products. Clients are the nerve center of the organization. Without customers, the business is bound to close the shop. Offering clients quality products and excellent customer experience ensure the company succeeds in its activities. Lastly, there are competitors, and Apple owes them ethical and legal responsibility. The competitors should act justly and comply fully with legal and regulatory frameworks to allow healthy competition (Hakobyan, 2018). Unhealthy competition can lead to unpleasant business for Apple making it not to realize its objectives.

References

Edwards, J. (2019). Resource-Based Theory. Retrieved from https://opentextbc.ca/strategicmanagement/chapter/resource-based-theory/

Hakobyan, A. (2018). Apple Stakeholder Analysis. Retrieved from https://teletype.in/@aramhakobyaninfo/Sy2tVAirE

Mate, B. (2017). The Benefits of an Industrial Organization Model Strategy. Retrieved from https://bizfluent.com/list-7319667-benefits-industrial-organization-model-strategy.html

Sohail, N. (2017). Impact of Globalization on Apple Inc. Retrieved from https://www.scribd.com/doc/61951649/Impact-of-Globalization-on-Apple-Inc

Rowland, C. (2019). Apple Inc.’s Mission Statement and Vision Statement (An Analysis). Retrieved from http://panmore.com/apple-mission-statement-vision-statement

Communicating professionally and ethically is one of the
essential skill sets we can teach you at Strayer. The following
guidelines will ensure:

· Your writing is professional
· You avoid plagiarizing others, which is essential to writing ethically
· You give credit to others in your work

Visit Strayer’s Academic Integrity Center for more information.

Winter 2019

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Strayer University Writing Standards 2

� Include page numbers.

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� Use 10-, 11-, or 12-point font size for the body of your text.

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Be consistent with your choice throughout the assignment.

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� If assignment requires a title page:
· Include the assignment title, your name, course title, your professor’s name, and the

date of submission on a separate page.

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or b. Include all required content where appropriate for assignment format.
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Title Your Work

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Strayer University Writing Standards 3

Writing Assignments
Strayer University uses several different types of writing assignments. The Strayer University
Student Writing Standards are designed to allow flexibility in formatting your assignment and
giving credit to your sources. This section covers specific areas to help you properly format
and develop your assignments. Note: The specific format guidelines override guidelines in the
General Standards section.

Paper and Essay
Specific Format
Guidelines

PowerPoint or
Slideshow Specific
Format Guidelines

� Use double spacing throughout the body of your assignment.

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acceptable fonts, see General Standards section.)

� Use the point of view (first or third person) required by the assignment guidelines.

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headings (centered) on the page, be consistent, and include at least two section
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Strayer University Writing Standards 4

Giving Credit to Authors and Sources
When quoting or paraphrasing another source, you need to give credit by using an in-text
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the Source List. A well-researched assignment has at least as many sources as pages (see
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Option #1: Paraphrasing
Rewording Source Information in Your Own Words
· Rephrase the source information in your words.

Be sure not to repeat the same words of the author.

· Add a number to the end of your source (which will tie
to your Source List).

· Remember, you cannot just replace words of the
original sentence.

 Examples

ORIGINAL SOURCE

“Writing at a college level requires informed
research.”

PARAPHRASING

As Harvey wrote, when writing a paper for
higher education, it is critical to research and
cite sources (1).

When writing a paper for higher education,
it is imperative to research and cite sources
(Harvey, 1).

Option #2: Quoting
Citing Another Person’s Work Word-For-Word
· Place quotation marks at the beginning and the end of

the quoted information.

· Add a number to the end of your source (which will tie
to your Source List).

· Do not quote more than one to two sentences
(approximately 25 words) at a time.

· Do not start a sentence with a quotation.
· Introduce and explain quotes within the context of

your paper.

 Examples
ORIGINAL SOURCE
“Writing at a college level requires informed
research.”

QUOTING

Harvey wrote in his book, “Writing at a college
level requires informed research” (1).

Many authors agree, “Writing at a college
level requires informed research” (Harvey, 1).

http://libdatab.strayer.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ers&AN=98402046&site=eds-live&scope=site

Strayer University Writing Standards 5

Page Numbers
When referencing multiple pages in a text book or other
large book, consider adding page numbers to help the
reader understand where the information you referenced
can be found. You can do this in three ways:

a. In the body of your paper;

or b. In the citation;

or c. By listing page numbers in the order they were
used in your paper on the Source List.

Check with your instructor or the assignment guidelines to
see if there is a preference based on your course.

 Example
IN-TEXT CITATION

(Harvey, 1, p. 16)

In the example, the author is Harvey, the source list number
is 1, and the page number that this information can be
found on is page 16.

Multiple Sources (Synthesizing)
Synthesizing means using multiple sources in one sentence
or paragraph (typically paraphrased) to make a strong
point. This is normally done with more advanced writing,
but could happen in any writing where you use more than
one source.

The key here is clarity. If you paraphrase multiple sources
in the same sentence (of paragraph if the majority of the
information contained in the paragraph is paraphrased),
you should include each source in the citation. Separate
sources using semi-colons (;) and create the citation in
the normal style that you would for using only one source
(Name, Source Number).

 Example
SYNTHESIZED IN-TEXT CITATION

(Harvey, 1; Buchanan, 2)

In the example, the authors Harvey and Buchanan were
paraphrased to help the student make a strong point.
Harvey is the first source on the source list, and Buchanan is
the second source on the source list.

Traditional Sources

Strayer University Writing Standards 6

Discussion Posts
When quoting or paraphrasing a source for discussion
threads, include the source number in parenthesis after the
body text where you quote or paraphrase. At the end of
your post, type the word “Sources” and below that include
a list of any sources that you cited.

If you pulled information from more than one source,
continue to number the additional sources in the order that
they appear in your post.

For more information on building a Source List Entry, see
Source List section.

 Examples
SAMPLE POST

The work is the important part of any writing
assignment. According to Smith, “writing
things down is the biggest challenge” (1).
This is significant because…

The other side of this is also important. It is
noted that “actually writing isn’t important as
much as putting ideas somewhere useful” (2).

SOURCES

1. William Smith. 2018. The Way Things Are.
http://www.samplesite.com/writing

2. Patricia Smith. 2018. The Way Things Really
Are. http://www.betterthansample.com/tiger

A web source is any source accessed through an internet browser. Before using any source, first determine its credibility.
Then decide if the source is appropriate and relevant for your project. Find tips here.

Home Pages
A home page is the main page that loads when you type
a standard web address. For instance, if you type Google.
com into the web browser, you will be taken to Google’s
home page.

If you do need to cite a home page, use the webpage’s
title from the browser. This found by moving your mouse
cursor over the webpage name at the top of the browser.
When citing a homepage, it is likely because there is a news
thread, image, or basic piece of information on a company
that you wish to include in your assignment.

Specific Web Pages
If you are using any web page other than the home page,
include the specific title of the page and the direct link (when
possible) for that specific page in your Source List Entry.

If your assignment used multiple pages from the same author/
source, create separate Source List Entries for each page
when possible (if the title and/or web address is different).

Web Sources

https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/conducting_research/evaluating_sources_of_information/index.html

Strayer University Writing Standards 7

Effective Internet Links
When sharing a link to an article with your instructor and
classmates, start with a brief summary and why you chose
to share it.

Be sure to check the link you’re posting to be sure it will
work for your classmates. They should be able to just click
on the link and go directly to your shared site.

Share vs. URL Options

Cutting and pasting the URL (web address) from your browser
may not allow others to view your source. This makes it hard
for people to engage with the content you used.

To avoid this problem, look for a “share” option and choose
that when possible so your classmates and professor
get the full, direct link. Always test your link(s) before
submitting to make sure they work.

If you cannot properly share the link, include the article as an
attachment. Interested classmates and your professor can
reference the article shared as an attachment. Find tips here.

 Examples
POOR EXAMPLE

Hey check out this article: http://www.
Jobs4You.FED/Jobs_u_can_get

BETTER EXAMPLE

After reading the textbook this week, I
researched job sites. I found an article on how
to find the best job site depending on the job
you’re looking for. The author shared some
interesting tools such as job sites that collect job
postings from other sites and ranks them from
newest to oldest, depending on category. Check
out the article at this link: http://www.Jobs4You.
FED/Jobs_u_can_get

Charts, images, and tables should be centered and followed by an in-text citation. Design your page and place a citation
below the chart, image, or table. When referring to the chart, image, or table in the body of the assignment, use the citation.

On your Source List, provide the following details of the visual:

· Author’s name (if created by you, provide your name)
· Date (if created by you, provide the year)
· Type (Chart, Image, or Table)
· How to find it (link or other information – See Source List section for additional details).

Charts, Images, and Tables

Strayer University Writing Standards 8

Source List
The Source List (which includes the sources that you used in your assignment) is a new page
you add at the end of your paper. The list has two purposes: it gives credit to the authors that
you use and gives your readers enough information to find the source without your help. Build
your Source List as you write.

· Type “Sources” at the top of a new page.
· Include a numbered list of the sources you used in your paper (the numbers

indicate the order in which you used them).

1. Use the number one (1) for the first source used in the paper, the number
two (2) for the second source, and so on.

2. Use the same number for a source if you use it multiple times.

· Ensure each source includes five parts: author or organization, publication date,
title, page number (if needed), and how to find it. If you have trouble finding
these details, then re-evaluate the credibility of your source.

· Use the browser link for a public webpage.
· Use a permalink for a webpage when possible. Find tips here.
· Instruct your readers how to find all sources that do not have a browser link

or a permalink.

· Separate each Source List Element with a period on your Source List.

AUTHOR PUBLICATION DATE TITLE PAGE NO. HOW TO FIND

The person(s) who
published the source. This
can be a single person,
a group of people, or an
organization. If the source
has no author, use “No
author” where you would
list the author.

The date the source was
published. If the source
has no publication date,
use “No date” where you
would list the date.

The title of the
source. If the
source has no title,
use “No title”
where you would
list the title.

The page
number(s) used. If
the source has no
page numbers,
omit this section
from your Source
List Entry.

Instruct readers how to find
all sources. Keep explanations
simple and concise, but
provide enough information
so the source can be located.
Note: It is your responsibility
to make sure the source can
be found.

 Examples

Michael Harvey

In the case of multiple
authors, only list the first.

2013

This is not the same as
copyright date, which is
denoted by ©

The Nuts &
Bolts of College
Writing

p. 1

Include p. and
the page(s) used.

http://libdatab.strayer.edu/
login?url=http://search.
ebscohost.com/login.aspx

Setting Up the
Source List Page

Creating a
Source List Entry

Source List Elements

Strayer University Writing Standards 9

 How It Will Look in Your Source List

1. Michael Harvey. 2013. The Nuts & Bolts of College Writing. p. 1. http://libdatab.strayer.edu/
login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx

 Sample Source List

1. Michael Harvey. 2013. The Nuts & Bolts of College Writing. p. 1. http://libdatab.strayer.edu/login?url=http://search.
ebscohost.com/login.aspx

2. William R. Stanek. 2010. Storyboarding Techniques chapter in Effective Writing for Business, College and Life. http://
libdatab.strayer.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nlebk&AN=359141&site=e
ds-live&scope=site&ebv=EB&ppid=pp_23

3. Zyad Hicham. 2017. Vocabulary Growth in College-Level Students’ Narrative Writing. http://libdatab.strayer.edu/
login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=edsdoj&AN=edsdoj.9b7fad40e529462bafe3a936
aaf81420&site=eds-live&scope=site

4. Anya Kamenetz. July 10, 2015. The Writing Assignment That Changes Lives. https://www.npr.org/sections/
ed/2015/07/10/419202925/the-writing-assignment-that-changes-lives

5. Brad Thor. June 14, 2016. The Best Writing Advice I Ever Got. http://time.com/4363050/brad-thor-best-writing-advice/

6. Karen Hertzberg. June 15, 2017. How to Improve Writing Skills in 15 Easy Steps. https://www.grammarly.com/blog/
how-to-improve-writing-skills/

7. Roy Peter Clark. 2008. Writing Tools: 55 Essential Strategies for Every Writer. p.55-67. Book on Amazon.com.

8. C.M. Gill. 2014. The Psychology of Grading and Scoring chapter in Essential Writing Skills for College & Beyond.
Textbook.

9. ABC Company’s Policy & Procedures Committee. No Date. Employee Dress and Attendance Policy. Policy in my office.

10. Henry M. Sayre. 2014. The Humanities: Culture, Continuity and Change, Vol. 1. This is the HUM111 textbook.

11. Savannah Student. 2018. Image. http://www.studentsite.com

12. Don Dollarsign. 2018. Chart. http://www.allaboutthemoney.com

13. Company Newsletter Name. 2018. Table. Company Newsletter Printed Copy (provided upon request).