Basic external analysis tools for strategic management purposes

        Explain basic external analysis tools for strategic management purposes List the components of a company’s macro-environment (a.k.a., general external environment). Identify at least two articles published in the last 6 months that discuss the effects of one (or more) segment(s) of the macro-environment on a particular company. Based on your interpretation of the articles: Explain how the component(s) of the macro-environment affects the company (positively or negatively). State what the purpose of a company’s industry environment (a.k.a., competitive environment) analysis is. Which industry force(s) most strongly affects the company discussed in the articles you selected? Why? What is your conclusion about the importance of understanding the external environment forces for the purpose of strategic management?