Imagine that you are Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, and that you are constantly engaged in environmental scanning as part of the planning process. Explain briefly how you would go about doing it. Can you keep track of all aspects of the environment? If not what aspects will you focus on and why? How might Bill Gates use benchmarking as a tool for improvement even though he is in an organization that is a recognized leader in the industry? Be sure to research and cite sources to support your statements.

If I were Bill Gates, I would engage in environmental scanning as part of the planning process by following these steps:

1. Identify the decision-making process: Understand the purpose and objectives of the planning process, and identify what information is required for effective decision-making.

2. Determine the relevant environmental factors: These may include political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors (known as PESTLE analysis), which can affect the organization's performance and future plans.

3. Monitor industry trends: Stay updated on technological advancements, market trends, and customer behaviors that may impact the organization's products and services. This can be done by reading industry reports, attending conferences, and analyzing competitors' strategies.

4. Seek external expertise: Collaborate with market research firms, consultants, and experts who can provide insights into specific areas of interest, such as sustainability initiatives or emerging market opportunities.

5. Leverage internal resources: Utilize Microsoft's own research and development teams, data analytics, and existing customer feedback to gain a comprehensive understanding of the organization's internal environment.

6. Regularly review and analyze gathered information: Continuously evaluate collected data for potential risks, opportunities, and challenges, and integrate them into the overall planning process.

While it is impossible for Bill Gates (or anyone) to keep track of all aspects of the environment, he can prioritize certain factors based on their potential impact on Microsoft's operations and long-term success. Factors such as new technological developments, competitive analysis, and regulatory changes could be of primary focus due to their direct influence on Microsoft's business strategies.

Benchmarking can still be a valuable tool for improvement, even for an industry leader like Microsoft. Bill Gates can use benchmarking to compare the organization's performance against competitors or industry standards, thereby identifying areas of improvement and determining best practices. By doing so, Microsoft can stay ahead of emerging trends and continuously strive for better performance.

In terms of sources, relevant information can be found in strategic management literature, specifically on topics like external analysis, environmental scanning, and benchmarking. Some notable sources include:

1. Strategic Management: Concepts and Cases by Fred R. David and Forest R. David
2. Crafting and Executing Strategy: The Quest for Competitive Advantage by Arthur A. Thompson Jr., Margaret A. Peteraf, John E. Gamble, and A. J. Strickland III
3. Strategic Management and Competitive Advantage: Concepts and Cases by Jay B. Barney and William Hesterly

Remember to further explore these sources to gain a more comprehensive understanding of environmental scanning and benchmarking in strategic planning.