Influences on business — OCR GCSE Study Guide
Exam Board: OCR | Level: GCSE
Master the external forces that shape business success or failure. This guide covers ethics, the environment, the economy, and globalisation — essential topics where examiners test your ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Overview
Businesses do not operate in a vacuum. They are constantly buffeted by external forces that they cannot control but must respond to. In this topic, examiners expect candidates to demonstrate a clear understanding of four key external influences: Ethical Considerations, Environmental Considerations, the Economic Climate, and Globalisation.
You will be assessed on your ability to not only identify these factors (AO1) but to explain their impact (AO2) and evaluate how businesses should respond (AO3). The most successful candidates are those who can balance the competing demands of these influences — for example, recognising that acting ethically may increase costs in the short term but build vital brand loyalty in the long term.
1. Ethical Considerations
Ethics in business refers to what is considered morally right and wrong. It goes beyond what is legally required. Examiners often reward candidates who recognise that ethical behaviour is a choice that carries both costs and benefits.
Treatment of Workers
Ethical businesses ensure fair pay (often above the minimum wage, such as the Real Living Wage), safe working conditions, and reasonable hours.
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