External Influences on Business

Study Notes

Economic cycles impact businesses differently; luxury goods may decline during recessions, while budget retailers can thrive.
The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a recession, increasing unemployment and government aid reliance.
Businesses monitor indicators like inflation and consumer confidence, along with global trade factors that influence Australia's economy.

Interest rates significantly affect debt financing choices for businesses.
Rapid evolution in global financial markets enhances international transactions, impacting businesses' access to capital and financial stability.

Australia's climate, resources, and position in the Asia-Pacific create both opportunities and challenges for business expansion.
Demographic trends, such as an aging population, influence demand for certain services, notably in healthcare.

Societal attitudes, including environmental consciousness and family-friendly policies, significantly shape business operations and public perception.
Companies that promote work-life balance and sustainable practices gain loyalty from customers and employees.

Businesses must adhere to regulations around tax, safety, anti-discrimination, and environmental protection.
Regulatory bodies enforce compliance, shaping fair practices economically and socially.

Technological advancements bolster productivity and operations but also bring challenges like job displacement and reduced product life cycles.
Adopting new technologies is crucial for businesses to maintain competitive edges in their industries.

Market concentration levels and barriers to entry can shape competition dynamics within industries.
Foreign competitors add complexity to the local market but also create opportunities for home-grown businesses to expand.

Integrated financial markets alter access to international investments for businesses.
While the labor market is less globalized, evolving immigration and visa policies significantly impact workforce availability, particularly following COVID-19.

Product type and range dictate internal processes and business infrastructure; expanding product lines necessitates adjustments in operations.
Business location influences visibility and cost; service businesses typically seek high-visibility locations, while manufacturing can benefit from lower-cost sites.

Effective management of human resources, physical assets, and financial capital is essential for operational efficiency and success.
Resource allocation directly correlates to a business’s ability to operate smoothly and adaptively.

Management styles vary from autocratic to laissez-faire, affecting decision-making and organizational structure.
Modern businesses trend towards flatter hierarchies, facilitating agility in responding to market changes.

Company culture, encompassing values, rituals, and leadership figures, plays a vital role in employee behavior and success.
Strong, positive cultures foster employee engagement and facilitate the achievement of business objectives.

Owners impact decision-making and sustainability in profit returns.
Managers focus on maintaining profitability and ethical standards, shaping business culture.
Employees' skills and welfare directly affect product quality and productivity levels.
Customer demand for high-quality, competitively priced, and sustainable products drives business profitability.
Companies are pressured to address social and environmental concerns, engaging in corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Establishment: New businesses may struggle with high costs and low sales; effective marketing and customer relations are critical during this phase, which has a high failure rate.
Growth: Increasing sales and cash flow demand enhanced competitiveness and advanced management systems as businesses expand their customer base.
Merger: Companies may merge or acquire others to broaden product offerings or eliminate competition; mergers can be vertical, horizontal, or diversified.
Maturity: Sales growth stagnates; businesses must focus on structured management and efficiency to maintain success and avoid complacency.
Post-Maturity: Businesses may either stabilize, innovate, or face decline if unable to adapt to market changes.