Use this notetaking guide to outline your research areas. The guide will help you focus on historical, economic, civic, and social factors that influence the current state of your market locale. Afterwards, you have prompts to help you think about the impact and influence of the data you uncovered.
Historical Context:
Briefly summarize the key historical events that shape the nation's current identity and global position.
- Colonization & Independence: Was this nation colonized? By whom, and when did it gain independence?
- Key 20th/21st Century Events: List 2-3 major political, social, or economic events from the last century that have significantly impacted the country.
Economic Profile:
Provide a snapshot of the nation's economy. Focus on data that reveals its role in the global market.
- Gross Domestic Product (GDP): Convert or compare the most recent figure to USD to help you contextualize the number
- GDP per Capita: Provide the most recent figure in USD
- National Debt as % of GDP:
- Key Exports: List the top 3-5 major exports. Are they primarily raw materials or finished goods?
- Key Imports: List the top 3-5 major imports. What does the country need to buy from other nations?
- Labor Market Characteristics: Briefly describe the labor market. Note any significant factors like a large informal sector, high unemployment, or reliance on specific industries.
Governance & Civic Structure:
Describe the nation's political structure and its relationship with the international community.
- Government Type: (e.g., Parliamentary Republic, Absolute Monarchy, etc.)
- Political Stability & Key Issues: Briefly describe the current political climate. Are there major internal or external conflicts? Note any significant reports from human rights organizations.
- Relationship with Core Nations: Describe its key alliances or dependencies. Does it receive significant foreign aid from or have major trade agreements with countries like the US, China, or EU nations?
Social & Cultural Fabric
Outline the key demographic and cultural indicators that would be relevant for communication and localization.
- Official & Common Languages:
- Literacy Rate: Provide the most recent overall percentage.
- Standard of Living: Note the country's Human Development Index (HDI) score if available. Briefly describe general living standards.
- Cultural Heritage & Global Influence: UNESCO World Heritage Sites: How many sites does the country have? UNESCO Committee Representation: Does the country currently hold any leadership or committee chair positions within UNESCO? This can indicate its level of "soft power" and cultural influence.
Based on your research above, identify this country's position within the World System. Synthesize your findings to explain why this country fits into your chosen category. Reference specific details from the sections below, such as its reliance on raw material exports, its level of industrialization, its debt-to-GDP ratio, or its political relationships with core nations.
How do those data points impact the product market? How might it change the messaging and communication needs in that area? How might we expect innovation, technology, and new products to diffuse throughout the area?
Position (select one): ☐ Core ☐ Semi-Periphery ☐ Periphery
