Which of the following external forces is considered part of a firm's task environment in a competitive market?

• A. Societal values
• B. Political climate
• C. Customers
• D. Technological trends

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a firm's task environment: It includes external forces that directly affect a firm's ability to operate and achieve its goals, such as customers, suppliers, competitors, and regulators.
2. Identify the options given: Societal values, Political climate, Customers, and Technological trends.
3. Analyze each option to see if it directly influences the firm's day-to-day operations and competitive position:
4. - Societal values and political climate are part of the general environment, which affects firms indirectly over the long term.
5. - Customers are part of the task environment because they directly impact the firm's sales and revenue in the competitive market.