Given the changes in the business environment and the impact of
globalisation, are Michael Porter's generic strategies, developed in
the late 1970's, still relevant today?

Although I cannot claim to be a student of business, I have read
Michael Porter's 5 forces and I do believe that they are still
relevant in today's business climate. For a more detailed analysis of
how his theories still apply I would suggest that you read "Blown to
Bits" by Philip Evans and Thomas Wurster. They seek to prove how the
"new economics of information" have changed business strategy. Its a
good book. If you could, please email me and tell me if you find
anything else interesting on this topic, i'm very interested to learn!

Cheers,

Will let you know how i get along a bit later...

Generic strategies are subject to interpretation, they can never be
right or wrong. I believe you are referring to an emergent strategy,
which is generic. It has some elements of strategy plan, but can be
altered due to the dynamic nature of business environment. Since the
dynamic nature implies that entrepreneurs are carriers of dynamism,
all western states are basing their policies to promote entrepreneural
behaviour. In many scripts it is argued that entrepreneurs are the
representatives of generic strategies because they are not analytical
planners, but innovative and changing/dynamic individuals. Also given
the globalisation of competition and innovation, it is even more
important to adapt to a changing business environment, therefore
generic strategies are more important as they are not planned and not
static. Good luck.

I don't suppose you're from the BMA101 unit at UTas?