📝 Applying STEEPLE in exams
Big Idea: When asked to 'outline two STEEPLE factors', you must name the factor, describe it, and explain how it affects the specific business. Generic answers score low! 🎯
The formula for a strong STEEPLE answer
- Name the factor (e.g. 'Economic')
- Describe the specific issue (e.g. 'rising inflation')
- Explain the impact on THIS business (e.g. 'increases the cost of materials, squeezing profit margins')
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🔍 Choosing the right factors
You don't need to cover all seven factors — pick the ones most relevant to the business in the case study.
- Read the case study carefully — which external issues are mentioned or implied?
- Choose factors that have the BIGGEST impact on this business
- If the business is considering expansion abroad, think about political and legal factors
- If the business faces cost pressures, think about economic factors
- If the business faces reputation issues, think about ethical factors
Exam tip: Two well-explained factors beat seven vaguely mentioned ones. Depth over breadth!
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🔗 STEEPLE and other tools
- STEEPLE + SWOT: STEEPLE factors feed into Opportunities and Threats
- STEEPLE + Ansoff: External factors affect which growth strategy is feasible
- STEEPLE + marketing mix: External changes may force changes to the 7 Ps
- STEEPLE + location: Political and economic factors affect where to locate
STEEPLE is rarely used alone — combine it with other tools for the strongest exam answers! 🧩