3.8 Choosing strategic direction (A-level only)

Strategic direction: choosing which markets to compete in and what products to offer

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Additional information

Factors influencing which markets to compete in and which products to offer

Strategic direction to include the Ansoff matrix and value of:

  • market penetration
  • market development
  • new product development
  • diversification.

The reasons for choosing and value of different options for strategic direction

 

Strategic positioning: choosing how to compete

Updated

We've made a change to the subject content in the table below. This change affects A-level exams in 2025 onwards. To find out what's changed, read our summary of changes. You can also visit our updated specification.

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Additional information

How to compete in terms of benefits and price

Strategic positioning to include:

  • Porter’s low cost, differentiation and focus strategies
  • Bowman’s strategic clock.

Influences on the choice of a positioning strategy

 

The value of different strategic positioning strategies

 

The benefits of having a competitive advantage

 

The difficulties of maintaining a competitive advantage