Eton Company, an auto parts manufacturer, wants to extend its network of suppliers to include Applia, a maker of a new type of ball bearing. Eton estimates that the new ball bearing will increase the operational efficiency of its steering unit by 30%. Therefore, executives of Eton believe that adding Applia to its list of suppliers will help improve Eton's profitability.

Which of the following would be most useful to investigate to determine whether the new relationship with Applia will contribute to Eton's profitability?

A) Will the new cost to purchase the new ball bearings from Applia exceed the cost of the ball bearings currently used to manufacture Eton Company's steering unit?

B) Do the buyers of Eton Company's steering units currently seek steering units with improved operational efficiency?

C) Are end users who might buy the improved steering unit aware that Eton Company is currently developing such a technology?

D) Are Eton Company's Executives aware of current broader trends in the automobile industry, including the design and manufacture of new automobile models?

E) Will the cost to purchase the new ball bearings offset the new revenue likely to be gained from the distribution of steering units equipped with the new ball bearings?

OA E

Source: EMPOWERgmat