ABSTRACT
Through this chapter, the student will be exposed to:
Understand the wider position and role of the industrialized countries in the context of global affairs, changes, and relationships, as well as the historical developments that led to these
Identify the elements that constitute the business macro-environment and their importance, and be able to distinguish the industrialized countries based on their macro-environmental characteristics
Comprehend the factors that underlie consumer behavior, and also to differentiate the behavior of consumers in industrialized countries from that of consumers in other countries
Value the knowledge on consumer behavior in the industrialized countries, and be in a position to utilize it toward achieving business objectives
Recognize the generic characteristics of the competitive environment of industrialized countries, monitor the parameters of individual competitive environments, and interpret their major elements
Formulate, plan, and manage strategies that utilize their knowledge of the industrialized countries’ competitive environment and consumer needs and behavior
Structure, organize, and lead businesses in the industrialized countries based on the constrictions imposed and potentialities offered by the economic, cultural, regulatory, and other macro-environmental conditions
440Generally be in a position to not only differentiate the business environment and practice of the industrialized countries vis-à-vis the rest of the world, but also appreciate the uniqueness and distinctiveness of individual countries and areas within them
Interrelate all the elements, factors, forces, and parameters presented in this chapter, to achieve a comprehensive and spherical perception of the complex conditions under which businesses operate in the industrialized countries.