CAIE
Business
(9609)
2024
May/June Paper 42
Questions & Answers
Q1.
Essay
20 marks
Evaluate the extent to which CA's operations strategy between 2019 and 2024 led to the failure of the city Z branch.
Model Answer:
The operations strategy contributed significantly to the failure of the city Z branch, but it was not the only cause. Relevant factors include the choice of location, the speed and quality of implementation, lean production methods, the AI customer service system, and external conditions such as recession and branch performance differences. A balanced evaluation should consider both internal operational decisions and wider market conditions.
Explanation: This is the expected evaluative response for a 20-mark essay: it should assess how far operations strategy caused failure, using evidence from the case and Appendix 4.
Q2.
Essay
20 marks
Advise Nala on the most important elements to be included in a corporate plan for the future of the city Z branch.
Model Answer:
The corporate plan should include the branch's objectives, market analysis, operations plan, marketing plan, human resource plan, financial forecasts, funding requirements, risk assessment, and contingency plans. The most important elements are likely to be clear objectives, realistic financial projections, and a strategy for restoring profitability and customer satisfaction.
Explanation: This is the expected advisory response for a 20-mark essay: it should identify and justify the key sections of a corporate plan for securing bank finance and guiding the branch's future.