Reflecting on the Solution to Zara's Case Study: An Application of Gibb's Reflective Cycle

THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT





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Introduction

Reflecting upon the experience would help in gaining insights and providing pathway for future. In this report the reflection regarding the solving of Zara’ case study will be provided. Gibbs's reflective model is an effective way to work through an experience. It can be either a stand-alone situation or an experience an individual goes through mainly, for instance, meeting with a group an individual must cooperate with. It mainly supported its utilization in frequent circumstances, but the principles and stages apply similarly to a single experience too. If done with a separate experience, the action plan can develop universally and look at how an individual can apply their conclusion in the coming time.



Gibb’s reflective cycle

Graham Gibbs developed Gibb's reflective cycle in the year 1988 to provide structure to examine experiences (Sweet, et. al., 2019). It provides an outline for acknowledging experiences, and its cyclic nature offers itself, mainly to repeated experiences, permitting an individual to plan and learn from things that didn`t go correctly or went well. It embraces six different stages that are description, feelings, evaluations, analysis, conclusion, and action plan.

Description

To work on this case study, I decided to complete it in different shifts. So, it will be easy for me to cover tasks on time. I also decided to complete this much before the submission so I do not need to face problems at the last moment. The case study discusses the subject matter field to the fast-paced fashion industry, discussing a business as a case study that has gone through certain issues related to the environment as the clothing industry needs a lot of water and chemicals and emits harmful gases that are harmful to the environment. The market in which the organization perform its actions contain huge competitors and customers. The enterprise is situated in the fast-paced fashion segment and it is linked to features such as short item life cycles, compassion of consumers to trends, and great impact on the environment and society. Zara delivers the latest and most stylish clothes at affordable cost and mainly focuses the young women, who have a good salary (Li, 2021). Further, group working theories can be utilized here for example Jensen`s stage and Tuckman's stages of forming groups. This contains the strategies growth on handling the problems. Different stages of Tuckman`s theory such as adjourning, performing, norming, storming, and forming which was useful for me in different stages of finishing my work.

Feelings

When I examined the case study, I had a lot of things to do, it gave me little stress as well as made me happy that I could work effectively on the project. The only thing that disappointed me was that I thought I could complete this task in a much more effective way. This case was extremely interesting as the subject of the case is actively applicable to the present fast-paced fashion industry so, by collaborating requirements of the market with the ethical and ecological features. I planned to share the issue and work on recognizing different solutions that are productive, but at the same moment, it was time-consuming for me. I was so confused about the results but anyhow all things went so smoothly. I was encouraged by the competition issues that are arising in the present world where consumers need the latest designs and the organization must respect environmental and ethical problems. Growing issues for the environment are a global issue and working on this problem is important for the present as well as the future generation (Nižeti?, et. al., 2020). The great information of organization was useful for me to complete the project and answer the all questions. Anyhow, more knowledge of the approaches linked to competitive advantages and sustainability would be meaningful.

Evaluation

I was successful in identifying the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and risks of the case organization very well. I also raised the view about the acceptable methods and promotional campaigns of operation. Completing work in different shifts and discussing from other peers was effective. Moreover, useful discussion with friends and collecting information from online sources was a better idea. My hard work and deep research added value to my work and it provided me an opportunity to complete the task on time. The issue was I had less time and I had to work till late at night to meet the deadline, for this reason, I was not able to complete my investigation to the fullest. Everything could be done much better but the main barrier was a lack of proper planning. Jensen and Tuckman`s theory was meaningful in identifying that forming is the foremost stage and the group was ready for performing and norming; every stage was marked productively, and the group coordinated and made choices productively. The work of Tuckman demonstrates the type he had observed in group progress, whether they are friendly with it or not (Abd Malik Mohd Rick, et. al., 2022).

Analysis

At this stage, an individual gets an opportunity to make sense of whatever he experienced. The foremost successful decision includes promotion strategies which is an understanding that inbound marketing with content marketing is highly productive. So, I was able to boost the project`s contemporary aspects in a better way by choosing the material customers would find engaging and interesting. it is possible to achieve success in maintaining dynamics in the demand of customers and in accepting the development of digital interaction (Warner and Wäger, 2019). Marketing stream, Instagram and WhatsApp were taken as channels of marketing; this approach attracted to the section. Certain challenges came our way, firstly I thought to utilize offline sources such as newspapers to collect data about the case study and other materials but it took us a lot of time. Moreover, it was not able to meet our requirements. The most bureaucratic and challenging activity was creating environmental and social responsibility for the enterprise. On utilizing the theory of Porter`s value chain as a perception, I examine that it was imaginable to integrate strategies of sustainability into the value system but attain a raised sustainability state without the boost in prices. In the same context, the strategy of Mintzberg`s emergent supported me to maintain the features of the customers and market about expectations and trends on sustainability.

Conclusion

I have recognized the areas of weakness and strength in the acquisition of information and investigation and presented an analysis of the problem, I need to enhance primarily the information analysis skills in market trends and data sets. The following concepts and knowledge must be strengthened: specifics of customer behaviour, competitive analysis, and SWOT analysis. Attaining more data regarding such farmwork of strategy as Mintzberg`s emergent approach and Porter`s five forces would facilitate my performance and decision-making in enterprises, mainly in unstable environments. Rendering to my self-evaluation, I recognize that the skills, I am needed to excel in are predicting events and strategic planning. Obstacles I would like to act on in the future are better ways of recognizing dynamics in trends of marketing and good ways of achieving short-period work results and long-period results for sustainability, mainly in fashion, which is a continuously changing industry. It will support me to boost the strategies significantly and adjust my message about the dynamic that takes place in the work procedure. Next, communication is a certain activity required both for a group and individual assignment in an enterprise. Anyhow, this is a field in which I can grow and excel in writing and explaining data. Enhancing the interpersonal and communication skills in the section on productive strategies presentation will enhance my effectiveness in the enterprise, mainly in groups, more so in negotiation aspects.

Action plan

Skills

Actions

Resources

Time

Conduct Comprehensive Market Research

To be successful in this task, I need to examine the present market and the preferences of the customers by utilizing questionnaires, advertising material, and market reports.

Required resources are questionnaires, market reports, and advertising material.

6 months.

Enhance Strategic Planning

In charge of the exterior environment and establishing inner strength, it is suggested that the operation of strategic sites and the SWOT analysis with the five-force theory of Porter analysis be utilized (Kinabo, 2020). Moreover, with more tools and resources, entrepreneurial, will be required to enhance the long-term strategies and vision achievable for the area of social and sustainability responsibility.

SWOT and porter`s five forces model

5 months

Enhance Sustainability Practices and Supply Chain

Develop steps, and analysis trade that can make sure that the complete transportation services and storage are enhanced to boost sustainability and it must use the principles of circular economy models. Mainly, there is a requirement for a dynamic concept of production management and supply chain for sustainability.

Circular economy model

8 months



Conclusion

From this reflective report, it can be concluded that with the help of case study solution there are certain set of skills which as a student I have built. Along with this, the skills and knowledge which I have gained from the case study would help me in the business.

References

Abd Malik Mohd Rick, W.N., Mohd, H.W., Abd Rahman, M., Sukiman, S.A., Mokhtar, R. and Katawazai, R., 2022. Exploring Online Group Work Using Tuckman’s Model. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rahmatullah-Katawazai-2/publication/365150461_Exploring_Online_Group_Work_Using_Tuckman's_Model/links/6375b6741766b34c542fb179/Exploring-Online-Group-Work-Using-Tuckmans-Model.pdf

Kinabo, R., 2020. Strategy Development Plan. https://www.theseus.fi/bitstream/handle/10024/341298/Strategy%20Development%20Plan.Thesis.pdf?sequence=2

Li, Y., 2021, September. How Should Zara Optimize Its Marketing Strategies to Cater to the Needs of New Generations–Gen Z and Millennials? In 2021 International Conference on Financial Management and Economic Transition (FMET 2021) (pp. 305-311). Atlantis Press. https://www.atlantis-press.com/article/125961049.pdf

Nižeti?, S., Šoli?, P., Gonzalez-De, D.L.D.I. and Patrono, L., 2020. Internet of Things (IoT): Opportunities, issues and challenges towards a smart and sustainable future. Journal of cleaner production274, p.122877. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7368922/?utm_source=devglan

Sweet, L., Bass, J., Sidebotham, M., Fenwick, J. and Graham, K., 2019. Developing reflective capacities in midwifery students: Enhancing learning through reflective writing. Women and Birth32(2), pp.119-126. https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/222963804.pdf

Warner, K.S. and Wäger, M., 2019. Building dynamic capabilities for digital transformation: An ongoing process of strategic renewal. Long range planning52(3), pp.326-349. https://eprints.gla.ac.uk/210967/7/210967.pdf



Appendix

Answer 1

SWOT analysis

Strength

The strengths of the company are fashion clothing, global reach, brand valuation, affordable prices, and spacious stores. The focus of the company is to form distinct and trendy clothing for all, and it can achieve this with its team`s skills of designers who acknowledge the requirements of the target market.

Weakness

The weaknesses of the company are inadequate supply chain, limited advertising, and insufficient product information. The organization is planning to expand its market globally, and it is still mainly dependent on its facilities of main production to give the products for all stores.

Opportunities

Wide global markets, online channels, and creating a trademark design are the main opportunities for the company. The number of online buyers is enhanced in the present day as online platforms provide numerous options to consumers and they can get discounts (Li, et. al., 2020). The company can boost the market by enhancing its presence online and forming a marketing strategy that is much more efficient.

Threats

Threats that the company encounters are fast-fashion competition, imitations, and the situation like COVID-19 pandemic. As with any other company, the organization is also required to handle cheap replications in the market that have its logo or name. Some expert customers can find this discrimination but others are not capable of finding the difference that impacts the sales of the company.

Answer 2

Both Uniqlo and H&M have been known as successful in the fast-paced fashion industry by imposing practices of innovative management of the supply chain (Abdulgadir and Abdulgadir, 2020). These competitors impose issues on the growth opportunity and market position of the company. H&M is known as the oldest and biggest Sweden-based company. Spain-based Zara and Japan`s Uniqlo have their loyal customer base as well as their product lines. The company is capable of selling, manufacturing, and designing its items in outlets quickly as the organization has several production vertical factors, which provide competitive advantages to the company.

Answer 3

The focus of the company is on young ladies who are fashion freaks, have good taste in fashion, love to wear aesthetic clothes, mostly stay active on social media platforms, and have good sources of income. As company provide latest, fashion clothes at affordable price. Additionally, the company will also target young girls who used to go to parties and want to become the centre of attraction with the unique outfit of the company.

Name: Amanda

Gender: Female

Age: 28

Location: UK, London

Profession: Human Resource in MNC

Annual salary: £ 50,000 p.a.

Personality traits: fashion freak, experiments with new designs, alluring, and classic

Social conviction: environmentally sensitive, positively influencing body, and manners.

Socio-political persuasion: no answer



Answer 4

Paid advertising: paid advertising is mainly the foremost type of advertisement. This effective strategy includes paying amounts to certain shows for promotion in a certain location at a certain period, so an individual can get the attention of the target market. Some instances are radio ads, television ads, and billboards.

Content marketing: it is another common method of digital advertising strategy, aimed at distributing meaningful content to retain and attract customers (Ho, et. al., 2020). The view for content marketing is that it is linked with the organization with relevant, meaningful content that supports consumers solve problems – establishing trust and finally inspiring consumers to purchase the products.

Answer 5

Social media marketing: it is known as a useful method for organizations of different sizes to meet consumers and prospects (Jummani and Shaikh, 2019). Individuals find out, research, follow, and buy from companies on social media platforms.so, if an individual or company does not use platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, they are missing great things. Sound marketing on social media platforms can help in getting success to the company, forming keen brand promoters, and driving sales and leads. It is a type of digital marketing that leverages the potential of a famous network of social media to attain branding and marketing objectives. It is not only about forming accounts of businesses and posting them online whenever an individual feels like it. It needs a developing approach with assessable objectives and involves, optimizing and maintaining the profile, posting live videos, stories, videos, and pictures that show the company`s product and attract the consumers.

Answer 6

Internal coordination from the perspective of corporations on social problems is important. A two-way communication can be useful in enhancing corporate culture and strengthening employee engagement. Workers must feel important when they consider their problems are marked, and this has a great effect on their performance and job satisfaction. A healthy, safe environment is crucial for the productivity, mental welfare, and physical safety of employees (Mora, et. al., 2020). Ventilation, bad air quality, and asbestos-perforated structures can contribute to sick building conditions, which can cooperation the worker`s comfort and health. By educating the staff on environmental problems in the organization to ensure compliance, an individual can acknowledge EPA resources highlighting problems, like onsite remediation, onsite management of wastewater, and air quality assurance. Additionally, using environmentally friendly methods of production will be beneficial to fight against environmental issues and it will add value to the organization.

Answer 7

Private limited organizations must handle three types of legally needed records: records of activities in the organization, like a list of voting decisions, shareholders, and directors (NYUGHA, 2021). Financial records embrace all transactions. An individual must comply with relevant regulations, rules, and laws, handle perfect business records, pay corporation tax, and file accounts. If the load is too heavy, an individual needs to consider appointing an organization secretary to manage those activities, adding to the cost of business. Private limited organizations are subject to different regulatory and legal requirements, involving reporting obligations and annual filings. Failing to obey these legal requirements can lead to penalties and fines. Organizations can raise funds simply by issuing shares to stockholders.



References

Abdulgadir, A. and Abdulgadir, I., 2020. Strategic Proposals for Sustainable Supply Chains in the Fast Fashion Industry: Exploring ways to incorporate concepts and methods to confront the damaging effects of the industry. https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1501090/FULLTEXT02

Ho, J., Pang, C. and Choy, C., 2020. Content marketing capability building: a conceptual framework. Journal of Research in Interactive Marketing14(1), pp.133-151. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Christopher-Pang/publication/339856040_Content_Marketing_Capability_Building_A_Conceptual_Framework/links/626b6df0d99ac24cc472bbb2/Content-Marketing-Capability-Building-A-Conceptual-Framework.pdf

Jummani, M.O. and Shaikh, S., 2019. Social media marketing: prospects and opportunities for small and medium enterprises. Journal of Marketing Strategies1(1), pp.63-83. https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/2d70/a678bf21cd5f9660965d73c32bf48a611cb0.pdf

Li, C., Chu, M., Zhou, C. and Zhao, L., 2020. Two-period discount pricing strategies for an e-commerce platform with strategic consumers. Computers & Industrial Engineering147, p.106640. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qiiyafnhyb018M28KEk5DbPb7gM1GcxG/view

Mora, Z., Suharyanto, A. and Yahya, M., 2020. Effect of work safety and work health towards employee’s productivity in PT. Sisirau Aceh Tamiang. Burns2(1), pp.753-760. https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/4a3a/915bfea4dce6dfaf359dd19d7c3692aa84e4.pdf

NYUGHA, P.G., LIABILITIES OF DIRECTORS IN A PRIVATE LIMITED COMPANY: A COMPARISON OF THE SITUATION UNDER OHADA LAW AND ENGLISH LAW (Doctoral dissertation, UNIVERSITY OF DSCHANG). https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Pefela-Gildas-Nyugha/publication/374384695_Liabilities_of_Directors_in_a_Private_Limited_Company_A_Comparison_of_the_Situation_under_OHADA_Law_and_English_Law/links/651b40853ab6cb4ec6b498b6/Liabilities-of-Directors-in-a-Private-Limited-Company-A-Comparison-of-the-Situation-under-OHADA-Law-and-English-Law.pdf



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