3-page document – single-spaced / 6 page document – double-spaced, Palatino Linotype Font, Font size 12, 1-inch margins, and page numbers. The cover page (not required) and bibliography (required) are extra pages.
In-text citations to the research sources are required. The Industry Analysis needs to thoroughly analyze the industry level structure of Flooring Covering Stores in the US market via Porter’s Five Forces.
Acceptable sources include media articles, magazines, periodicals, industry journals, and any other reputable or scholarly publications.
Content and Format of the Paper:
In terms of the content/format of paper, here are the guidelines (use section headings):
Introduction
Provide a very brief and engaging introduction with an informative definition of your industry and some noteworthy points/background/context/metrics.
Analysis (with five sub-sections – one for each force)
Document a comprehensive and thorough assessment of the Floor Covering Stores in the US industry structure using Porter’s Five Forces. This is the heart of the project and task and should take up most of the paper. For each force, you will determine the applicable strength (make this clear – you can even put in the heading of the force) and provide support, explanation, and substantiation in a rigorous fashion. You must directly apply and explore the key elements/criteria of the Five Forces (see below) to the industry scenarios and dynamics found in the research. The discussion should reflect clarity and understanding of the forces and the industry definition and context. This section will include analytical commentary and original insightful discussion.
Conclusion
Provide a concise conclusion with an overall assessment of the major strategic factors and industry situation. How attractive and profitable is the industry? What does the short- and/or long-term future look like? Emphasize a few major insights and final thoughts from the industry analysis.
Bibliography
The bibliography is mandatory. The bibliography is a reference list of your research sources in your chosen style (i.e. APA, MLA, Harvard, etc.). Your paper must also contain in-text citations via your chosen style.
Porter 5 Forces:
1) Threats of new entrants
2) Threat of substitutes
3) Threat or bargaining power of suppliers
4) Threat or bargaining power of buyers
5) Threat or intensity of rivalry
