ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT one of the influences in the PESTEL framework?

1. Sociological

2. Political

3. Environmental

4. Technological

The correct answer is: Sociological

The PESTEL framework is a tool used for analyzing the external environment in which a business operates, assessing factors that can impact its performance. This framework consists of six categories: Political, Economic, Sociocultural (or Sociological), Technological, Environmental, and Legal. In this context, the correct answer is based on the understanding that "Sociological" is typically referred to as "Sociocultural" in the PESTEL framework, which emphasizes the cultural aspects and demographics impacting business environments. Thus, while "Sociological" captures the essence of social factors, it does not align with the standard terminology used in the framework, which leads to its exclusion as a recognized term in this specific context. By identifying the incorrect term within the PESTEL categories, one gains a clearer understanding of the widely accepted definitions and terminology, ensuring that they can effectively utilize the PESTEL analysis in real-world applications. Understanding this distinction is critical for successful analysis in strategic business leadership, aiding in the identification of external influences that may affect business strategy and decision-making.