Since inception on December 31, 1977, Palm Harbor Homes has been a leading performer in the Home Building Industry. They have seen positive results in all areas in which they ventured. Their net earnings alone have increased 25% over the last two years. They have increased total assets of 18.9% over the last five years with increased working capital of 15.8%. Palm Harbor Homes long-term debt has increased by 12.3 %, which seems high, but increases in other financial areas balances it out. With the expansion and growth through opening new stores in numerous areas, Palm Harbor Homes appears to be doing quite well in the Home Building Industry. Shareholder value and book value per share has increased substantially since the company went public in 1995. Palm Harbor is committed to being the best in the manufactured home business and to be sure that they offer the widest variety of products at the most convenient locations for all of their customers. In keeping with this pledge, they strive to expand products and services through various subsidiaries, i.e. Discovery Custom Homes and Palm Harbor Marketing.
             This paper will examine an environmental analysis of the company, including the remote, industry, and operating environments. The paper will discuss several major changes that the author expects will have an impact on the remote, industry, and operating environments over the next 10 years. Further, the paper will set out long-term objectives for the organization.
             The Remote Environment
             Palm Harbor Homes' mission is to build and sell customer's dream homes that exceed their expectations. Customer satisfaction is their first priority. Palm Harbor demonstrated innovative strengths in addressing the Remote Environment. Lee Posey, founder and CEO was able to build high quality homes while pricing them so the "average" American could afford to purch...