1) Strategic management is defined as formulating, implementing, and evaluating cross-functional decisions to achieve organizational objectives. It integrates functions like management, marketing, finance, and operations.
2) The strategic management process consists of strategy formulation, implementation, and evaluation in a continuous and dynamic process. It aims to maximize opportunities and minimize threats from the external environment.
3) Benefits of strategic management include improved financial performance, coordination, problem prevention, and understanding of competitors. However, some firms resist it due to challenges like poor incentives, overconfidence, or prior negative experiences.