As we have seen, a business has no control over the various elements that make up its Macro environment. But studying them is important as it allows the firms to prepare for any changes. So let us learn a bit more about the Political-Legal Environment and the Social Environment and their effects on a business.
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Political-Legal Environment
This is a non-market factor but it can still greatly impact a business. The political-legal environment is a combination of a lot of factors such as the current political party in power, the degree of politicization of trade and industry, the efficiency of the current government, government policies, current legal framework, the public attitude towards the economy, etc.
All these factors will shape the political-legal environment in which the firm has to operate and compete. There are three main elements of a political-legal environment. Let us have a look.
1] Government
You must have often heard that an election year is an extremely important factor for the economy. This is why the type of government governing at the centre and the state has a huge impact on the businesses. The government decides all the fiscal policies, monetary policies, and taxation modules as well.
So the type of government in power has a huge impact on the economy and the firms that operate and compete in the economy. Like for example, the current government has the Make in India initiative which is good for the manufacturing sector.
2] Legal
A sound legal system is essential to the success of any business. So a country must have a sound and functioning legal system with laws that equally protect both consumers and manufacturers. There are various other matters like company law, royalties law, patent law, intellectual property rights.
International laws etc that also have a great influence on the business of firms. For example, the new GST laws are going to have a significant effect on the businesses.
3] Political
Political stability in a country is essential for a stable economy and stock market. Also, various political groups also hold a lot of influence on businesses and unions. So the political environment of a country is a major factor in the success of a firm.
Social Environment
The social environment and the cultural environment in which a firm operates can be a major factor in the success or failure of the firm. The social environment comprises of many dynamic factors such as social traditions, cultural influences, values and beliefs prevailing in the society, social stratification, etc.
Companies, especially international companies always study the cultural and social environment of a country before entering the market. It is important that your goods and services are in tandem with the social environment of the country. Otherwise, the company could face a backlash and run into losses.
Some important factors that affect the cultural and social environment in a country are as follows,
- Social concerns that plague society, such as pollution levels, corruption amongst government officials, excessive consumerism, ill effects of mass media consumption, etc.
- The social values and social attitudes of the businesses and the citizens. This includes the rituals and practices of the people and can also include religious beliefs. Changing lifestyle patterns also effects the expectations consumers have for the businesses.
- Family values, family structure and the role that family occupies in society has a great impact on the social environment
- The position and state of women and children in society. Even the role that women play in society will be a factor.
- Education and literacy levels of the population are another factor. This also includes consumer awareness and consumer protection
Solved Question on Social Environment
Q: Only international firms should do a study of the social environment before entering the market. True or False?
Ans: This statement is False. Even local and national firms should be aware of the social environment that they will be working in. Sometimes their products could be against the social practices or cultural of the population. This could majorly harm their product and their overall brand. So as far as possible all businesses should study the social environment of the economy in which they are functioning.
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