Class Resources - BUS 10&20 - Interview Prep & Business Research

Scenario Introduction

Imagine you work as a business analyst at PPG Paints and you have to create a SWOT analysis for the company.

1. Learn about PPG Industries

In groups of 2-4, use Mergent Online to learn about PPG Industries.

Mergent Online This link opens in a new window
1. In the search box in the middle left of the page, enter PPG and select PPG Industries.
2. Read the Business Summary.
3. Click the Company Details -> Business tab and read that page.

2. Determine the Relevant Industries

In the same groups, use Mergent Online to find out what industries PPG Industries operates in and/or is affected by.

Mergent Online This link opens in a new window
Under Company Details -> Business, see which industries are listed.
What is the primary NAICS industry?
What does this mean? (Hint: Look here for more info)

Based on the business description, what other industries might be relevant? (i.e. what industries does PPG supply?)

Divide your group into two teams, one to do more company research and the other industry research.

For the company research group, find the following things in Mergent Online. [Industry research group use the next tab for your instructions.]

Mergent Online This link opens in a new window
1. Annual Reports and SEC Filings
What kinds of information do these provide?
2. News
What are some things happening in the news that you could use for the SWOT analysis?
3. Competition
Who are some of the competitors? How are those companies doing?

Use IBIS World to find two relevant industry reports. You can search for the reports using the NAICS codes you found. Answer the questions below for each of them.

IBISWorld This link opens in a new window
1. Key External Drivers (under Industry Performance)
What are these and how might they fit in a SWOT analysis?
2. Industry Outlook
What is the industry outlook? How does this factor into the SWOT analysis?
3. Competition (under Major Companies)
Who are the competitors? What can you tell about those companies?

4. Create the SWOT

Come back together as a group and compare your answers.

Create your SWOT Analysis.

5. Check your SWOT

If there is time, how did your SWOT analysis compare with this one?

Business Source Complete - SWOT Analysis

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BUS 10&20 - Interview Prep & Business Research

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