Discussion: Strategic Impact of Positive Social Change Initiatives

Not all initiatives for promoting positive social change are successful, but these represent an opportunity to not only learn from one specific context, but also to shed light on a wider understanding of strategic planning. When larger corporations such as Starbucks have an initiative that fails, they can treat it like a learning opportunity for both the next initiative and their overall business strategies. Smaller companies, on the other hand, may be impacted in a more significant way.

To prepare for this Discussion, review the video case study featuring Walden alumnus Eric Barton and his organization, Business Owners Benefits Association (BOBA), and consider the potential benefits and risks of incorporating a social change mission into business strategy. Be sure to utilize the Walden Library to identify scholarly examples of both successful and unsuccessful instances of social change integration.

BY DAY 3

Post an analysis of the risks and benefits of integrating a positive social change mission into organizational strategic planning. Your analysis should include the following:

• What are the benefits for organizations considering integrating positive social change into their business strategy?
• What are the potential risks for organizations considering integrating business strategies with an emphasis on positive social change?
• Provide a real-world example of an organization that experienced an unsuccessful implementation of a positive social change initiative. As an independent scholar and global change agent, explain what the organization might have done differently, including planning or executing strategies to improve marketplace or cultural impacts.