IB Business Management IA SL: 60 Examples and Guidance (2025)

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program offers a variety of assessments for students, including Internal Assessments (IAs), which are pieces of coursework marked by students’ teachers. The Business Management SL IA is an assessment designed to test students' understanding of the material they have learned in their business management course and their ability to conduct independent research. The investigation should be a self-directed study that demonstrates the student's ability to understand and analyze a specific, real-world business issue.

Students should note that the Standard Level and Higher Level Internal Assessments for Business Management are quite different. In HL, students are expected to carry out their own investigation to curate primary research, while SL students only need to write a written commentary. Check out our separate article for guidance on the HL IA!

What is the IB Business Management IA?

The SL internal assessment is a written commentary that allows students to demonstrate the application of business management tools, techniques and theories to a business issue or problem.

For their written commentary, SL students must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Choose a genuine business issue or problem that pertains to the SL syllabus.
• Directly reference a single business organization, but may consider industry-wide matters that affect that particular organization.
• Build their written commentary on secondary research that is appropriate in terms of depth and breadth. Primary research may be utilized for support.
• Create a title for the commentary that is framed as a question to provide focus and direction.
• Keep the written commentary within 1,500 words.
• Include three to five supporting documents with the commentary, which should be the primary source of information.
• Thoroughly cite all supporting documents and additional sources, and add them to the bibliography.

What are the supporting documents?

The supporting documents should present a range of ideas and views, which you base your analysis on. They must be written within at least 3 years from the submission of the written commentary. One of the supporting documents may be a transcript of video/audio material, if it is published by a reliable organization.

These sources could include news articles, business accounts, extracts from the company’s website, government statistics, market research surveys, and mission statements.

Remember to fully reference these supporting documents in your IA’s bibliography.

How should the IA be structured?

To begin, the introduction should provide an overview of the business issue and contextual information about the organization. The subsequent section comprises the body of your work, which should detail the findings drawn from supporting documentation and, crucially, analyze them through the application of relevant business theories, tools, and techniques. This analysis must be conducted in the context of the question posed, and a definitive connection must be established. Lastly, the conclusion should address the question being investigated and discuss any unanswered aspects.

Have a look at our comprehensive set of IB Business Management SL resources, developed by expert IB teachers and examiners:

📚 View IB Business Management SL Study Notes

How is the IA assessed?

There are seven assessment criteria for the written commentary:

Criterion A: Supporting documents (4 marks)

The supporting documents should be relevant, sufficiently in-depth and provide a range of

ideas and views.

Criterion B: Choice and application of business tools, techniques and theories (5 marks)

There should be an appropriate selection of business management tools, techniques and theories, and these are skillfully applied.

Criterion C: Choice and analysis of data and integration of ideas (5 marks)

There should be an appropriate selection of data from the supporting documents with skillful

analysis and a coherent integration of ideas.

Criterion D: Conclusions (3 marks)

Conclusions should be consistent with the evidence presented and explicitly answer the commentary question.

Criterion E: Evaluation (4 marks)

There should be thorough evidence of evaluation, and judgments are well substantiated.

Criterion F: Structure (2 marks)

The student should have an appropriate structure to organize their ideas in a manner which is easy to follow.

Criterion G: Presentation (2 marks)

This assesses the extent to which the student presents the written commentary well. The student should include a title page, an accurate table of contents, appropriate headings and subheadings, consistent referencing, a complete bibliography and numbered pages.

How much does the IA contribute to my overall grade?

The IA will make up 30% of your final grade, with the furth 70% being based on Papers 1 and 2 in your final exams.

Check out the IB’s subject brief for a reminder of the rest of the key Business Management facts.

International Baccalaureate Subject Brief: Business Management SL

60 Example Investigation Questions

The IB provides these examples:

“Can airline X successfully target segment Y?” The commentary could then examine business

management topics such as market segmentation, consumer profiling, promotion, and measure of financial success.

“Should company Y outsource its manufacturing?” The commentary could then examine areas within business management such as operations management and human resource management.

You’ll see that you should pick a specific business, and then apply your syllabus knowledge to analyse it. Here are some more examples to inspire your own question, written by our expert IB Business Management tutors:

Sure, here are examples of questions and descriptions based on real businesses:

1. How did the introduction of the Prime membership impact Amazon's customer retention rate?

This IA could assess Amazon’s retention strategies by comparing customer behaviour before and after the introduction of the Prime membership. The investigation would involve identifying trends, evaluating financial metrics, and determining the role of benefits like free shipping and exclusive content in driving loyalty.

• Compare pre- and post-Prime membership retention rates using sales and subscription data.
• Evaluate the impact of Prime’s benefits (e.g., free delivery, streaming services) on repeat purchases.
• Use industry benchmarks to contextualise Amazon’s performance against competitors.

2. What impact does Google's workplace culture have on employee satisfaction and productivity?

Investigating Google's workplace culture offers insights into how its employee-centric policies, such as flexible schedules and creative workspaces, influence satisfaction and productivity. The study could leverage secondary sources like employee reviews, surveys, and industry reports.

• Analyse employee satisfaction scores from trusted platforms (e.g., Glassdoor).
• Examine correlations between workplace initiatives and productivity metrics (e.g., output or innovation rates).
• Compare Google’s practices to industry norms for a broader context.

3. How has the adoption of artificial intelligence in logistics improved efficiency for FedEx?

This IA could explore how AI has optimised FedEx’s operations, focusing on areas like route planning, package sorting, and real-time tracking. Public statements, financial reports, and technological reviews could highlight measurable efficiency gains.

• Investigate AI applications in route optimisation and shipment tracking.
• Compare operational efficiency metrics (e.g., delivery times) before and after AI implementation.
• Review industry reports on AI’s impact in logistics to benchmark FedEx’s performance.

4. What role has innovation played in Tesla's market position in the electric vehicle industry?

This study could evaluate how Tesla’s emphasis on innovation—through product design, battery technology, and autonomous driving—has strengthened its competitive edge. The research could also analyse market share trends and customer loyalty in relation to Tesla’s advancements.

• Examine Tesla’s patent portfolio and R&D investment trends.
• Identify the impact of specific innovations (e.g., battery range, self-driving technology) on market share.
• Compare Tesla’s product development timeline to its competitors’ efforts.

5. How has McDonald's international marketing strategy adapted to different cultural contexts?

This IA could explore how McDonald’s tailors its marketing strategies to align with local tastes and cultural norms, leading to increased global appeal. Case studies of campaigns in diverse regions could highlight key adaptations.

• Assess localisation efforts in menu offerings (e.g., McAloo Tikki in India).
• Analyse cultural messaging in marketing campaigns across different countries.
• Evaluate the impact of these strategies on sales and brand perception in target markets.

6. What impact has social media marketing had on Nike's brand visibility and customer engagement?

This IA could explore Nike’s use of social media to enhance brand visibility and engage its audience. The study might analyse campaigns and posts to assess their effectiveness in driving customer interactions and conversions.

• Measure the growth in engagement metrics (e.g., likes, shares, comments) over time.
• Evaluate specific campaigns (e.g., “Just Do It”) for their reach and customer response.
• Compare social media-driven conversions to other marketing channels.

7. How have sustainable practices influenced Patagonia's brand image and customer loyalty?

This IA could investigate how Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability has shaped its brand perception and strengthened customer loyalty. The study could use customer feedback and market data to assess the impact of initiatives like ethical sourcing and recycling programmes.

• Examine customer loyalty trends linked to sustainability-focused campaigns.
• Analyse Patagonia’s sales growth in eco-conscious demographics.
• Investigate public perception through survey results or reviews.

8. What role did diversification strategy play in the growth of Virgin Group?

This IA could evaluate how Virgin Group’s diversification into industries like airlines, telecommunications, and space travel has contributed to its growth. The research might highlight the risks and rewards of this strategy in expanding the company’s brand influence.

• Assess revenue growth in different Virgin subsidiaries over time.
• Compare the success of core versus diversified business units.
• Investigate the role of branding in unifying Virgin’s ventures.

9. How has digital transformation impacted the sales and operations of Walmart?

This IA could examine Walmart’s digital initiatives, such as e-commerce expansion and supply chain digitisation, to determine their impact on sales growth, operational efficiency, and customer experience.

• Analyse changes in e-commerce revenue before and after digital initiatives.
• Evaluate the efficiency improvements in Walmart’s supply chain systems.
• Compare customer satisfaction metrics pre- and post-digital transformation.

10. How has IKEA's cost leadership strategy contributed to its competitive advantage in the furniture industry?

This IA could assess how IKEA’s cost leadership strategy, including efficient supply chains and innovative flat-pack designs, has bolstered its global market dominance and customer affordability.

• Evaluate pricing strategies in comparison to competitors.
• Analyse market share growth linked to cost reduction measures.
• Investigate the operational efficiencies that enable lower production costs.

11. How does Starbucks' reward program contribute to customer loyalty and increased sales?

This IA could evaluate the effectiveness of Starbucks’ reward programme in driving customer retention and sales growth. By analysing metrics such as repeat purchase rates and average transaction values, the study could highlight how loyalty incentives impact financial performance.

• Measure changes in repeat purchase rates after introducing the reward programme.
• Assess the correlation between reward points earned and average transaction value.
• Compare Starbucks’ loyalty performance with competitors in the coffee industry.

12. What impact has Coca-Cola's global branding strategy had on its market position?

This IA could explore Coca-Cola’s global branding efforts, focusing on how its consistent brand identity across regions has strengthened its market dominance. The research might highlight localised marketing adaptations that enhance global appeal.

• Analyse Coca-Cola's branding consistency in diverse markets.
• Investigate the effectiveness of localised campaigns in increasing market share.
• Evaluate brand recognition and customer perceptions through survey data.

13. How does Apple's product differentiation strategy contribute to its profitability?

This IA could examine how Apple leverages unique design, advanced technology, and premium branding to maintain its competitive edge. The study could assess the relationship between these differentiation factors and Apple’s profit margins.

• Investigate the impact of design innovation on customer loyalty and sales.
• Analyse premium pricing strategies linked to technological advancements.
• Compare Apple’s profit margins with those of other industry leaders.

14. How did Zara's fast-fashion supply chain model revolutionize the retail fashion industry?

This IA could analyse Zara’s agile supply chain and production techniques to assess how they enable rapid responses to fashion trends. The research might focus on the influence of this model on retail efficiency and customer satisfaction.

• Evaluate the speed of Zara’s production cycle compared to competitors.
• Examine cost efficiencies achieved through vertical integration.
• Analyse customer satisfaction metrics related to product availability and trend responsiveness.

15. How has Disney's acquisition strategy influenced its market expansion and content portfolio?

This IA could explore Disney’s acquisitions, such as Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm, to evaluate their role in market expansion and content diversification. The study might highlight how these deals have contributed to revenue growth and brand dominance.

• Assess financial growth attributable to acquisitions over time.
• Analyse the expansion of Disney’s audience through new intellectual properties.
• Evaluate the role of acquired franchises in strengthening Disney’s content portfolio.

16. How has LEGO’s product diversification impacted its market position in the toy industry?

This IA could assess LEGO's strategic expansion into new product lines, such as themed sets, digital games, and feature films. The study might evaluate how these efforts have strengthened its competitive edge and bolstered market share.

• Analyse sales growth across diversified product lines.
• Evaluate brand recognition improvements through multimedia ventures.
• Compare LEGO’s market share pre- and post-diversification.

17. What strategies did Nokia employ to recover its market position in the telecommunications industry?

This IA could investigate Nokia's recovery strategies, such as partnerships, innovative product launches, and market targeting. The research could highlight the effectiveness of these strategies in regaining relevance in the telecommunications market.

• Assess the impact of Nokia’s strategic collaborations on market performance.
• Examine sales trends of key product launches during the recovery period.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of targeting emerging markets in Nokia’s resurgence.

18. How did Netflix's business model disruption contribute to its success in the video streaming industry?

This IA could examine Netflix’s transition from DVD rentals to online streaming, focusing on how its disruptive approach revolutionised content consumption and established industry dominance.

• Investigate user growth metrics before and after the streaming model launch.
• Analyse the financial benefits of subscription-based revenue streams.
• Compare Netflix’s market position with traditional competitors and new entrants.

19. How has Spotify's freemium business model influenced its user growth and revenue generation?

This IA could explore how Spotify’s freemium model drives user acquisition and premium subscription conversion. The study might evaluate the balance between free and paid users and its impact on revenue streams.

• Analyse conversion rates from free to premium users over time.
• Investigate the revenue contributions of ads versus subscriptions.
• Compare Spotify’s growth to competitors with alternative pricing models.

20. How did Toyota's Just-in-Time (JIT) production system affect its operational efficiency?

This IA could evaluate the impact of Toyota’s JIT production system on cost reduction and operational efficiency. The study might highlight how minimising inventory levels improved supply chain management and responsiveness.

• Examine reductions in inventory costs achieved through JIT.
• Analyse the effect of JIT on production cycle times and delivery reliability.
• Compare Toyota’s operational efficiency metrics to industry standards.

21. What impact did the shift to cloud computing have on Microsoft's business operations and profitability?

This IA could evaluate Microsoft’s transition to cloud-based services, particularly Azure, and how this strategic shift influenced its revenue streams and operational efficiency. The analysis could highlight key financial and structural impacts.

• Assess revenue growth from cloud services compared to traditional software.
• Investigate changes in operational costs due to the cloud computing model.
• Analyse Azure’s market share and its role in Microsoft’s competitive positioning.

22. How did Alibaba's platform business model drive its growth in the e-commerce market?

This IA could explore Alibaba’s platform business model, focusing on how its marketplace connects buyers and sellers while fostering growth through economies of scale and network effects. The study might assess its contribution to Alibaba's dominance in the e-commerce sector.

• Evaluate the role of commission-based revenue in driving profitability.
• Analyse the impact of user acquisition on Alibaba’s market expansion.
• Compare Alibaba’s growth with competitors adopting different business models.

23. How has H&M's fast-fashion business model impacted its sustainability initiatives?

This IA could investigate the intersection of H&M’s fast-fashion practices and its sustainability goals, analysing whether these efforts conflict or align. The study might focus on H&M’s public commitments and operational challenges.

• Examine the effectiveness of H&M’s recycling initiatives and eco-friendly lines.
• Analyse customer perceptions of H&M’s sustainability claims.
• Evaluate the balance between cost efficiency in fast fashion and environmental efforts.

24. What role did vertical integration play in Samsung Electronics' success in the smartphone market?

This IA could assess Samsung’s use of vertical integration in manufacturing critical components like semiconductors and displays. The study could explore how this strategy provides cost advantages and strengthens its competitive position in the smartphone industry.

• Investigate the cost savings achieved through in-house component production.
• Analyse the impact of supply chain control on product innovation.
• Compare Samsung’s approach to competitors relying on third-party suppliers.

25. How did Instagram’s monetization strategy impact its user engagement and revenue generation?

This IA could examine Instagram’s ad-based monetisation and influencer partnerships, focusing on their effectiveness in driving user engagement and revenue growth. The study might evaluate the platform’s balance between user experience and profitability.

• Assess the revenue contributions of ads and influencer-driven campaigns.
• Analyse the impact of monetisation features (e.g., sponsored posts) on user activity.
• Investigate how engagement trends vary across different user demographics.

26. What impact has the diversification of services had on the growth of JPMorgan Chase & Co?

This IA could evaluate how JPMorgan’s expansion into areas such as asset management, investment banking, and private banking has driven its financial growth and strengthened its competitive position. The study might analyse the strategic benefits of offering integrated financial solutions.

• Assess revenue contributions from diversified services (e.g., asset management, wealth advisory).
• Evaluate client retention linked to integrated service offerings.
• Compare JPMorgan’s growth with competitors focusing on fewer services.

27. How has Costco's membership business model contributed to its competitive position in the retail industry?

This IA could investigate the role of Costco’s membership-based model in fostering customer loyalty, generating consistent revenue, and strengthening its competitive edge. The research could focus on the financial and behavioural impacts of membership fees.

• Analyse membership renewal rates and their impact on long-term revenue.
• Evaluate cost savings passed to members through bulk purchasing.
• Investigate the role of exclusivity in driving customer retention.

28. How has Uber's surge pricing model affected its profitability and customer satisfaction?

This IA could explore Uber’s dynamic pricing strategy, focusing on its ability to maximise earnings during peak periods while balancing customer satisfaction. The study might assess how pricing elasticity influences demand and profitability.

• Examine revenue changes during peak times compared to standard pricing.
• Investigate customer feedback on surge pricing and its effect on satisfaction.
• Analyse demand fluctuations during surge periods across different markets.

29. What effect did digital transformation have on General Electric's business operations and performance?

This IA could examine General Electric’s digital transformation initiatives, such as the adoption of data analytics and industrial IoT, and how they enhanced operational efficiency and profitability. The research might highlight the challenges and successes of these changes.

• Assess efficiency improvements linked to digital tools like predictive maintenance.
• Investigate cost reductions achieved through automation and data-driven insights.
• Evaluate the financial impact of GE’s shift towards digital services.

30. How does Twitter's advertising model contribute to its revenue generation and user experience?

This IA could analyse Twitter’s ad-based revenue model, focusing on the effectiveness of promoted tweets and targeted ads. The study might also examine the trade-offs between maximising revenue and preserving user engagement.

• Analyse ad revenue trends and their contribution to Twitter’s overall income.
• Investigate user engagement metrics affected by advertising density.
• Compare Twitter’s ad model performance to that of competing social media platforms.

31. How has Airbnb's peer-to-peer business model disrupted the traditional hospitality industry?

This IA could explore how Airbnb's platform-based model, which enables peer-to-peer rentals, has challenged traditional hospitality providers. The study might examine shifts in market share, consumer preferences, and pricing strategies.

• Analyse market share changes between Airbnb and traditional hotels.
• Evaluate customer preferences for peer-to-peer lodging over conventional stays.
• Investigate the impact of Airbnb’s pricing flexibility on industry competition.

32. What role did strategic acquisitions play in Facebook's market dominance in the social media industry?

This IA could assess how Facebook’s acquisitions, such as Instagram and WhatsApp, have contributed to its market expansion. The study might focus on the role of these platforms in diversifying revenue streams and consolidating user bases.

• Analyse the growth in active users post-acquisitions.
• Evaluate revenue contributions from acquired platforms.
• Compare Facebook’s market share before and after major acquisitions.

33. How does Vodafone's pricing strategy influence its market share in the telecom sector?

This IA could investigate how Vodafone’s pricing strategies, such as competitive bundling and regional pricing adjustments, have impacted its ability to capture and retain market share. The study might highlight the balance between affordability and profitability.

• Examine the relationship between pricing strategies and customer retention.
• Evaluate Vodafone’s market share growth in competitive regions.
• Investigate consumer preferences for bundled offers versus standalone services.

34. What impact did the pivot to digital banking have on Barclays' customer engagement and service delivery?

This IA could analyse how Barclays’ transition to digital banking has affected customer interactions, service efficiency, and satisfaction levels. The study might assess the effectiveness of mobile apps and online platforms in retaining customers.

• Measure changes in customer satisfaction scores post-digital transformation.
• Evaluate operational efficiency improvements from digital banking tools.
• Investigate adoption rates of Barclays’ digital services among different demographics.

35. How does Johnson & Johnson's diversification strategy contribute to its stability in the pharmaceutical industry?

This IA could examine how Johnson & Johnson’s investment in multiple healthcare sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and consumer health products, ensures financial stability and reduces risk. The study might explore how this strategy bolsters its competitive position.

• Analyse revenue distribution across Johnson & Johnson’s business segments.
• Investigate how diversification mitigates risks in volatile market conditions.
• Compare Johnson & Johnson’s financial stability to less diversified competitors.

36. How has Dell’s direct-to-customer business model influenced its market position in the computer hardware industry?

This IA could explore how Dell’s direct-to-customer model has streamlined its operations and enhanced customer relationships. The study might assess its impact on market share, cost efficiency, and customer loyalty.

• Evaluate cost savings achieved through bypassing intermediaries.
• Analyse customer feedback on customisation options provided by Dell.
• Compare Dell’s market share with competitors using traditional retail models.

37. What role did innovation play in the growth and market dominance of PayPal in the online payment industry?

This IA could investigate PayPal’s use of innovation in developing secure, user-friendly payment solutions and strategic partnerships. The research could examine how these innovations contributed to its competitive advantage and user growth.

• Analyse the impact of PayPal’s security enhancements on customer trust.
• Investigate the role of product innovations like one-click payments in user acquisition.
• Evaluate how partnerships with e-commerce platforms influenced PayPal’s market share.

38. How does Bayer's merger and acquisition strategy contribute to its market expansion in the pharmaceutical industry?

This IA could assess how Bayer’s acquisitions, such as Monsanto, have expanded its market reach and diversified its portfolio. The study might focus on the strategic alignment of these acquisitions with Bayer’s long-term goals.

• Examine revenue growth following major acquisitions.
• Analyse the diversification of Bayer’s product lines post-acquisition.
• Investigate the geographical market expansion facilitated by mergers.

39. How has Slack’s freemium model contributed to its user growth and revenue generation?

This IA could explore how Slack’s freemium model attracts users and converts them into paying customers. The study might focus on balancing the free offering’s value with premium feature upselling to generate revenue.

• Investigate user retention rates within the free tier.
• Analyse conversion rates from free to premium plans.
• Evaluate revenue contributions from premium subscriptions relative to free usage.

40. What role does branding play in Rolex's pricing strategy and market position in the luxury watch industry?

This IA could examine how Rolex’s strong brand image underpins its premium pricing strategy and sustains its dominance in the luxury watch market. The research could highlight how branding aligns with exclusivity and craftsmanship.

• Assess consumer perception of Rolex as a status symbol.
• Analyse the relationship between branding and willingness to pay premium prices.
• Compare Rolex’s pricing strategy to other luxury watch brands.

41. How did the pivot to a subscription model contribute to Adobe's growth and customer retention?

This IA could examine how Adobe’s transition to a subscription-based model (e.g., Creative Cloud) impacted its revenue, customer loyalty, and overall profitability. The study might explore changes in customer behaviour and market performance resulting from this strategic shift.

• Analyse subscription revenue growth compared to previous licence sales.
• Evaluate customer retention rates following the subscription model adoption.
• Investigate how recurring revenue stabilised Adobe’s financial performance.

42. What impact does PepsiCo's product diversification have on its market share in the food and beverage industry?

This IA could explore PepsiCo’s expansion into various categories, such as healthy snacks, beverages, and plant-based products, and how these initiatives bolstered its market share and competitiveness.

• Evaluate revenue contributions from diversified product categories.
• Analyse PepsiCo’s market share in emerging segments like health-conscious products.
• Investigate how diversification helps mitigate risks in fluctuating demand.

43. How has Volvo's commitment to safety influenced its brand image and market position in the automobile industry?

This IA could assess how Volvo’s focus on safety features, such as advanced driver assistance systems, has enhanced its brand reputation and strengthened its position in the premium automotive segment.

• Analyse consumer perceptions of Volvo’s safety leadership through surveys.
• Evaluate the impact of safety innovation on customer loyalty and sales.
• Investigate Volvo’s market share trends in comparison to safety-oriented competitors.

44. How has IBM's shift to cloud and AI services influenced its market position in the IT industry?

This IA could explore how IBM’s strategic pivot towards cloud computing and AI services, such as Watson, has reshaped its market position and revenue streams. The study might highlight IBM’s competitiveness in emerging IT segments.

• Assess revenue growth in cloud and AI services compared to legacy IT operations.
• Analyse IBM’s competitive positioning against other cloud providers.
• Investigate the adoption of AI-driven solutions by IBM’s enterprise clients.

45. What role did e-commerce play in Alibaba's market expansion in the retail industry?

This IA could investigate how Alibaba leveraged its e-commerce platforms, such as Taobao and Tmall, to dominate the retail market. The study could evaluate strategies that boosted customer acquisition, transaction volume, and international reach.

• Analyse user growth and transaction volumes on Alibaba’s platforms.
• Evaluate the impact of cross-border e-commerce on market expansion.
• Investigate Alibaba’s adoption of data-driven strategies to enhance customer experience.

46. What impact did McDonald's 'Plan to Win' strategy have on its global market position in the fast-food industry?

This IA could assess the effectiveness of McDonald’s 'Plan to Win' strategy, which prioritised improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction at existing outlets over rapid expansion. The study might evaluate how this initiative influenced global market share and brand loyalty.

• Analyse customer satisfaction trends before and after implementing the strategy.
• Investigate financial performance improvements in existing locations.
• Compare McDonald’s market share growth with competitors during the same period.

47. How does Starbucks' customer loyalty program contribute to its customer retention and revenue generation?

This IA could explore how Starbucks’ loyalty programme incentivises repeat purchases and strengthens customer engagement. The study could evaluate its role in driving revenue and fostering long-term customer relationships.

• Examine the growth in active membership and its impact on sales.
• Analyse spending patterns of loyalty programme members versus non-members.
• Investigate how the programme’s rewards influence customer retention rates.

48. How did Amazon's two-day shipping commitment influence its competitive position in the e-commerce industry?

This IA could investigate how Amazon Prime’s two-day shipping policy has enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty, solidifying Amazon’s dominance in the e-commerce market. The research might focus on how speed and convenience create a competitive advantage.

• Evaluate customer acquisition trends linked to Prime membership.
• Analyse operational changes enabling two-day shipping efficiency.
• Compare Amazon’s shipping commitment with delivery standards of competitors.

49. What role does Coca-Cola's global branding strategy influence its market position in the beverage industry?

This IA could examine Coca-Cola’s consistent global branding approach, focusing on its impact on market share, customer recognition, and brand equity. The study might highlight the interplay between localisation and global consistency.

• Assess consumer recognition of Coca-Cola’s brand identity across regions.
• Evaluate the role of marketing campaigns in enhancing market share.
• Compare Coca-Cola’s branding performance with key competitors.

50. What role did diversification play in Disney's growth in the entertainment industry?

This IA could analyse Disney’s diversification strategy, encompassing films, theme parks, TV networks, and streaming platforms. The study might evaluate how entering multiple sectors contributed to revenue growth and market expansion.

• Investigate revenue growth from key segments like streaming services and theme parks.
• Analyse the synergy between Disney’s entertainment properties and merchandising.
• Compare Disney’s diversification strategy to less diversified competitors.

51. How has Google's organizational culture contributed to its innovative capabilities?

This IA could explore how Google’s emphasis on creativity, collaboration, and employee empowerment fosters a culture of innovation. The study might assess how these cultural elements translate into successful product development and market leadership.

• Analyse the relationship between workplace flexibility and innovation output.
• Investigate the impact of Google’s 20% time policy on product creation.
• Compare Google’s organisational culture with that of less innovative competitors.

52. What impact does IKEA's cost leadership strategy have on its market position in the furniture retail industry?

This IA could evaluate how IKEA’s focus on low-cost production and efficient logistics strengthens its competitive edge. The research might highlight how this strategy appeals to cost-conscious consumers while maintaining profitability.

• Examine cost-saving measures in product design and supply chain management.
• Investigate IKEA’s market share trends in key regions.
• Compare IKEA’s pricing strategy to that of premium furniture retailers.

53. How does Tesla's direct sales model contribute to its market position in the electric vehicle industry?

This IA could assess Tesla’s unique direct-to-consumer sales strategy, including its exclusive showrooms and online platforms. The study might explore how this approach enhances customer relationships and differentiates Tesla from traditional automakers.

• Analyse the financial benefits of eliminating third-party dealerships.
• Investigate customer satisfaction levels associated with the direct sales experience.
• Compare Tesla’s market performance to competitors using dealership-based models.

54. How has Zara's fast-fashion supply chain management contributed to its success in the fashion industry?

This IA could examine how Zara’s highly responsive supply chain enables rapid adaptation to fashion trends. The research might focus on how Zara’s model minimises lead times and maintains its competitive advantage.

• Evaluate the efficiency of Zara’s vertical integration and local production hubs.
• Analyse lead times from design to store compared to competitors.
• Investigate Zara’s ability to adapt to consumer trends in near real-time.

55. What role did technological innovation play in Apple's market dominance in the smartphone industry?

This IA could analyse how Apple’s continuous advancements in hardware, software, and ecosystem integration have established its leadership in the smartphone market. The study might assess how innovation contributes to customer loyalty and premium pricing.

• Investigate the impact of flagship innovations like the iPhone and Face ID.
• Analyse the role of Apple’s ecosystem in driving repeat purchases.
• Compare Apple’s R&D investment and outcomes to its closest competitors.

56. How does FedEx's hub-and-spoke distribution model contribute to its operational efficiency in the courier industry?

This IA could evaluate how FedEx’s hub-and-spoke model optimises logistics, reducing delivery times and operational costs. The study might focus on how centralised hubs improve resource allocation and enhance service reliability.

• Analyse cost efficiencies achieved through centralised sorting hubs.
• Evaluate the impact of the model on delivery times and route optimisation.
• Compare FedEx’s logistics performance to competitors with decentralised systems.

57. How did Huawei's investment in R&D influence its competitiveness in the telecommunications industry?

This IA could explore how Huawei’s substantial investment in research and development drives innovation, enhancing its product portfolio and global competitiveness. The research could focus on how R&D spending translates into technological leadership.

• Examine Huawei’s R&D expenditure in comparison to industry peers.
• Investigate how product innovations have boosted market share.
• Analyse the role of R&D in fostering partnerships and new market entry.

58. How does Unilever's sustainable living plan impact its brand image and customer loyalty?

This IA could assess the effects of Unilever’s sustainable initiatives, such as reducing environmental impact and promoting ethical sourcing, on brand perception and customer loyalty. The study might explore whether sustainability aligns with consumer expectations.

• Evaluate customer loyalty trends linked to sustainability campaigns.
• Investigate how Unilever’s sustainable product lines influence sales.
• Analyse public perception of the company’s environmental and social initiatives.

59. What impact has the move towards online shopping had on Walmart's business operations and market position?

This IA could examine Walmart’s strategic shift towards e-commerce, focusing on its operational changes, competitive positioning, and customer engagement. The study could highlight the challenges and opportunities of integrating online and offline retail.

• Analyse revenue growth from e-commerce versus physical stores.
• Evaluate operational adjustments, such as supply chain digitisation.
• Compare Walmart’s e-commerce strategy to that of online-only retailers.

60. How does BMW's differentiation strategy contribute to its market position in the luxury automobile industry?

This IA could explore how BMW’s focus on premium quality, advanced technology, and brand prestige reinforces its position in the luxury car market. The study might analyse how differentiation enables competitive pricing and customer loyalty.

• Investigate the role of design and innovation in attracting high-end customers.
• Analyse BMW’s pricing strategy compared to other luxury brands.
• Evaluate customer perceptions of BMW’s brand image and product quality.

Conclusion

We have discussed the intricacies of crafting an effective IB Business Management IA at the Standard Level. Emphasizing the importance of choosing a pertinent business issue, conducting comprehensive research, and applying theoretical concepts, we aim to equip students with the tools needed for a successful IA. The addition of IB tutoring can further enhance this process, providing personalized support to ensure that your IA is not only thorough but also reflects a deep understanding of business concepts.