IT for Managers HB1041 Assessment

Final Individual Assessment

ALL SUBMISSIONS MUST INCLUDE YOUR STUDENT DETAILS AND COMPLETED SUBMISSION DECLARATION.

IF THESE DETAILS ARE NOT COMPLETED YOU RISK BEING PENALISED.

Instructions

All responses must be entered in the answer boxes at the end of each question

Additional Instruction: For all questions, your answers must include references to the Holmes syllabus and unit lecture materials for at least 70-80% of your responses. Minimal reliance on external resources is expected. The use of AI tools, such as ChatGPT, should be avoided to ensure academic integrity. Maximum of 500 words per whole question (250 words for subparts).

Question 1 (10 marks)

Case Story: In Australia, Woolworths and Coles have long dominated the supermarket industry, leveraging advanced IT systems to manage inventory, streamline logistics, and enhance customer experiences. However, Aldi, a discount supermarket chain, has been rapidly gaining market share by offering lower prices and simplified operations. Despite its success, Aldi faces challenges in scaling its supply chain to meet growing demand while maintaining efficiency. To compete effectively, Aldi must adopt innovative IT tools to optimise inventory management and logistics operations, especially during high-demand periods like Christmas or promotional sales events.

Required:

1. Identify two simple IT tools or approaches (e.g., automated inventory tracking systems, real-time data dashboards or self-serve registers) that Aldi could use to improve inventory management and streamline logistics operations during high-demand periods. For each tool, explain how it works, and why it would be suitable for Aldis specific needs.

ANSWER (box will enlarge as you enter your response)

2.Despite the benefits of adopting new technologies, implementation often comes with risks. Identify one major risk associated with integrating advanced IT solutions into Aldis existing supply chain infrastructure. Discuss how this risk might impact employees, customers, or overall business performance. Then, propose a detailed mitigation strategy that balances innovation with operational stability.

ANSWER

Question 2 (10 marks)

Case Story: Starbucks, one of the worlds largest coffeehouse chains, has long relied on its CRM system to gather insights into customer behaviour and preferences. Through its loyalty program, "Starbucks Rewards," the company collects data on everything from purchase history to their favourite drink type. Despite this wealth of information, recent reports indicate a decline in repeat visits among younger demographics, particularly Gen Z consumers who prioritize personalized experiences. Additionally, some franchise owners have expressed frustration over inconsistent data sharing between corporate headquarters and local stores. Recognizing the need for action, Starbucks marketing team must now reassess how they utilize their CRM platform to re-engage lapsed customers and strengthen brand loyalty.

Required:

1. Starbucks uses a CRM system to track customer preferences and improve marketing campaigns. However, they are struggling to engage younger customers effectively. Identify two simple ways that Starbucks could use their existing CRM system to better connect with younger customers. For example, consider how discounts, rewards, or personalized messages might help. Explain why these methods would work.

ANSWER

2. Imagine you are advising Starbucks on how to improve their CRM strategy. Suggest three easy-to-implement ideas to make their loyalty program more appealing to all age groups. For each idea, explain how it would work and why it would encourage customers to return more often. For instance, think about offering free drinks, creating fun challenges, or sending birthday rewards.

ANSWER

Question 3 (10 marks)

Case Story: In September 2017, Equifax, one of the largest credit reporting agencies in the United States, announced a catastrophic data breach that exposed the personal informationincluding Social Security numbers, birthdates, and addressesof approximately 147 million individuals. The breach was attributed to a failure to patch a known vulnerability in Apache Struts, a widely used open-source software framework. In the aftermath, Equifax faced intense scrutiny from regulators, lawsuits from affected consumers, and a sharp decline in public trust. Determined to prevent a recurrence, Equifax embarked on a multi-year initiative to overhaul its cybersecurity protocols and restore confidence among stakeholders. As part of this effort, the company seeks innovative yet practical solutions to safeguard sensitive data moving forward.

Required:

Explain the concept of encryption. Furthermore, using the Equifax breach as a case study; describe how implementing robust encryption techniques could have minimized the damage caused by the attack.

ANSWER

Question 4 (10 marks)

Case Story: Walmart, traditionally known as a brick-and-mortar retail powerhouse, has made significant strides in embracing digital transformation to compete with online rivals like Amazon. In recent years, the company invested heavily in e-commerce platforms, mobile apps, and automated warehouses. However, despite these efforts, Walmart continues to struggle with integrating its physical and digital operations seamlessly. For instance, discrepancies between online inventory listings and actual store stock levels frequently frustrate customers attempting to pick up orders in-store. Moreover, many employees feel unprepared to handle the technological shift, citing inadequate training and support. To achieve true omnichannel excellence, Walmart must address these gaps while ensuring alignment between IT initiatives and broader organisational goals.

Required:

Change management plays a critical role in any digital transformation project. Propose a step-by-step change management plan to help Walmarts workforce adapt to new technologies without disrupting day-to-day operations. Your plan should cover:

1. Strategies for fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. (3 Marks)

1. Tactics for addressing resistance to change among long-time employees. (3 Marks)

1. Metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of the change management process over time. (4 Marks)

ANSWER

Question 5 (10 marks)

Reflective Task: Technology has evolved rapidly in recent years, with advancements like artificial intelligence, automation, and data analytics transforming industries across the globe. Briefly, reflect on how these changes might impact your future career, regardless of the field you choose. What steps can you take now to prepare yourself for a workplace that is increasingly shaped by technology?

ANSWER

END OF FINAL INDIVIDUAL ASSESSMENT