Situational Analysis

I. CONTENT TASKS (10 points total):

a) Situation Analysis (5 points)

Governance

Citizenship

Innovation

The threat of the economic recession has slowed many research and development teams, the hot tub industry is no exception, the creation of new designs and technology is costly to the industry, being prepared for a recession and knowing your plan of action is important to stay ahead of the competitive market.

The Spa industry is swamped with a plethora of innovations from plasma T.V.’s and submersible remote controls to underwater prism lights. Being able to provide the latest accessory or gadget on the market gives retailers a leg up on the competition and by far the most recent must have innovations revolve around energy efficiency. Because a more efficient hot tub appeals to buyers, manufactures realize the value in a more energy efficient product. New technology makes almost every aspect of a home spa more energy efficient.

Here are some examples:

Better Control Systems:

-Manufacturing better designing control panels for the hot tubs is important, it gives a sleeker look to their units and it makes them more efficient in general. “Each Thermo-Spas hot tub gives you your choice of computerized control panels. They're conveniently located, waterproof and equipped with many money saving functions.” “http://www.thermospas.com/portable-hot-tubs-cost.html”

Jet Pumps

-With the growing need to have better technology, the hot tub industry has focused on the comfort area of there product, the jets and therapy of their tubs are designed to create a more therapeutic massage. “The NeckFlex Jet System, produced by D1 Spas, features powerful, user-adjustable jets, which are designed to fit the body and seated in a curved, padded head cradle. Each jet provides you with water volume and nozzle angle control.”

(http://www.d1spas.com/the-innovation-center.html) This is a clear example of how companies in the hot tub industry are trying...