The Wal-Mart Corporation

Research Paper # 47557

Business > Companies
Business > Management
Business > Marketing

An insight into the history, strategy, and innovations of the Wal-Mart Corporation.

3,817 words () | 8 sources | MLA | 2004 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses Wal-Mart's history, innovative business principles, and its use of information technology to gain a competitive advantage. It also examines strategies such as geographic location, inventory management, operations, hub and spoke distribution network, culture, and analyzes the research and development of Wal-Mart's computer system. Also included are conclusions as to why it is considered one of the world?s most innovative companies and how Wal-Mart uses R&D money to make the company more successful and one of the world's leading discount retail stores.

Outline
Introduction
Executive Summary
History
The Wal-Mart Culture
Sam Walton's Three Basic Beliefs
Helping People Make a Difference
Sam's Rules For Building a Business
Use of Information Technology
Geographic Location
Inventory Management Strategy
Operations Strategy
Hub and Spoke Distribution Network
Vendor Relations
Culture
Research and Development
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Wal-Mart uses a new 2004 system to track container shipments, monitor inventory, expenses, and other pertinent data through the company's Intranet, accessible from every store. A password encryption system was developed and implemented to secure the database information, and Associates share the data according to their security. The database tracts each inventory item at each store and the inventory data is shared with Wal-Mart's buyers and suppliers. This use of information technology has produced efficiency in ordering the proper level of products as demand increases or decreases."