What are the activities included in support functions of a value chain?

The support functions of a value chain play a crucial role in enabling primary activities to occur effectively and efficiently. These functions are focused on enhancing the overall competitiveness of an organization by providing necessary resources, skills, and infrastructure.

Human resource management is vital as it involves recruiting, training, and maintaining a motivated workforce, which is essential for executing the organization's strategies. Research and development (R&D) drive innovation and improve products or processes, giving firms an edge in competitive markets. Technology development includes creating and implementing various technologies that can enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and improve product quality. Systems development focuses on the creation and implementation of information systems that support various business functions, making data readily available for decision-making processes.

Together, these support functions contribute to the effectiveness of the primary activities in the value chain, such as production and marketing, by ensuring that the organization has the right people, technology, and processes in place to succeed. This comprehensive support ultimately leads to better performance and a stronger competitive position in the market.