Which of the following is NOT a published source of external strategic information?

The correct answer, indicating that periodicals are not considered a published source of external strategic information, is based on a broader understanding of the categorization of information sources.

External strategic information usually encompasses formal and systematic data that organizations can use to inform their strategic management processes. Published sources of this type of information typically include journals, reports, directories, and other scholarly publications that are structured to provide insights, data, or analysis on external environments, industry trends, market research, and competitor performance.

Journals are peer-reviewed, ensuring a high level of credibility and rigor in the information provided, while reports often present detailed findings from research studies or analyses that are crucial for strategic decision-making. Directories serve as comprehensive lists of companies, organizations, and their relevant attributes, which can be valuable for strategic networking or resource identification.

Periodicals, while they may circulate current information and trends, are often seen as more general or informal publications, which can include magazines or newsletters that do not always provide the depth or rigor typically associated with sources that impact strategic management. Thus, they might not always serve the specific, analytical needs that external strategic information requires, making them less relevant or reliable for strategic decision-making compared to the other sources listed.