Which activity is likely part of the support activities in the value chain?

In the value chain framework, support activities play a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of primary activities. Technology development is a key support activity that involves the processes of research and development, product design, and technological improvements. This activity underpins the entire value chain by creating innovations that can lead to competitive advantages, improve processes, and enhance productivity across all parts of the organization.

While marketing and sales, service, and outbound logistics are essential components that directly relate to the delivery of products or services to customers, they are categorized as primary activities. These primary activities include everything from production to customer support, directly adding value to the final product. In contrast, technology development serves a more foundational role by facilitating improvements and innovations which can ultimately affect the efficiency and effectiveness of all primary activities, thereby contributing to the firm’s competitive advantage.