Management Report: Understanding Different Company Types and External Factors on Businesses

Learning Outcomes Assessed:

Learning Outcomes Assessed:

LO1: Differentiate between different types of companies and their legal entities

LO2: Describe different internal and external factors which impact on businesses

Assessment Brief:

You have been employed as an assistant business analyst by a large multinational organisation to investigate different types and sizes of business they will have to compete with. They also would like to know how internal and external factors impact businesses. You were asked to write and submit 2,000 words Management Report to the CEO and your report should include the following:

Section 1: You are to show an understanding of the different types of companies and how they work.

Your response should cover the following:

• Definition, characteristics and example of micro business, small business, medium size business and large size business.

Section 2: You are required to explain different companies from sole traders to cooperatives and Limited Liability Partnerships.

Make sure, your response includes the following:

• Definition, characteristics and example of sole trader business, partnership, limited liability business, public limited liability business and Cooperative.

Section 3: To consider different business structures and how external factors affect businesses.  

In this section of the report, you are required to:

• Identify different organisational structures and explain how organisational structure affects business productivity.  
• Using PESTLE analysis explain how different external factors affect the performance of a business.

You should present your report professionally using Ariel 12 pt font size and include the following sections: -

Minimum Secondary Research Source Requirements:

Level FE3/HE3 - It is expected that the Reference List will contain at least five sources. As a MINIMUM the Reference List should include three academic books.

For general guidance on writing assignment and submission please refer to section 12. Guidelines for the Preparation and Submission of Written Assessments on the module guide.

Expertly addresses the main assumptions of the title and/or the requirements of the brief.

Demonstrates an exceptional knowledge/understanding of theory and practice for FE3 level through the identification and summary of key themes. Makes exceptional use of appropriate arguments and/or theoretical models.

Presents a comprehensive discussion of material resulting in clear, logical and original conclusions.

Coherently articulated and logically structured. An appropriate format is used.  

The presentational style & layout is correct for the type of assignment.

Effective inclusion of figures, tables, plates (FTP), where appropriate.

A very well written answer with standard spelling and grammar.

Style is clear, resourceful and academic.

Sources are cited accurately in the text and in the reference list.  

Demonstrates an adequate knowledge/understanding of theory and practice for FE3 level. An attempt is made to identify and summarise key themes. Presents basic arguments, but focus and consistency lacking in places.

Presents conclusions which are not always clear or logical.

Some attempt at articulation and logical structure but gaps in coherence and progression.

An acceptable format is used. The presentational style & layout is largely correct for the type of assignment.

Inappropriate use of FTP or not used where clearly needed to aid understanding. Generally, competently written although intermittent lapses in grammar and spelling pose obstacles for the reader.

Significant degree of irrelevance to the title/brief. Only the most obvious issues are addressed at a superficial level and in unclear terms.   Demonstrates weaknesses in knowledge of theory and practice for FE3 level, with poor understanding of key themes. Limited arguments, which lack clarity in places.