The debate about whether strategy precedes structure (or vice versa) has been in existence for over half of a century. Perhaps this is analogous to the chicken and egg debate and may prove to be a rather futile discussion. However, consider the extent to which an organization decides its strategy from its internal capability (the resources that it has in order to achieve goals), or the extent to which it scans the external environment, then marries up the internal requirements in order to meet this. It could be argued that an internally driven organization is contingent upon structural configurations, while the externally driven organization is contingent upon strategic planning.
Argue the case for:
1. Strategy preceding structure.
2. Structure preceding strategy.
Use at least two international companies to make your points.