Strategy

Description

The best way to respond to the future is to create the future.  And to create it in a likeness where we have the source of sustainable competitive advantage.  This means, we win.  This module using theoretical frameworks, along with significant investigation of the real world to allow managers to gain a wider perceptive of what strategy really is and why it is critical to their attaining top positions within organisations.

Strategy comes first; all other aspects of business must follow.  Once the strategy is right other dimensions of the successful business can be put in place.  Clearly, it is critical that any manager, and particularly those attaining senior management positions, must understand strategy and the ability to craft sound strategy.  This module provides managers with this knowledge through a theoretical appreciation of strategy, strategy development, strategic management and insight into developing sound strategy in a complex environment. Critically it provides for increased understanding of competition and competitive forces and guides in achieving the critical dimension of business, that of achieving sustainable competitive advantage. Most importantly it goes beyond the conventional view of analysing the future but develops an appreciation of the need to be the organisation and to be the manager that creates the future.It seeks to take a wider view than just ‘corporate strategy, looking also at strategy in start-ups, SMEs and the public sector.  Also in the 21st century, we will debate the question of whether leaders have the sole right to create their own strategy or do the opinions of others now influence their options and choices?

Learning objectives

Subject specific skills

By the end of this module the student should be able to:

  • Appreciate why is strategy is important.
  • Understand the different schools of strategy (including different levels of strategy) and the strategic management process.
  • Analyse competitive strategies and understand the nature of competitive advantage.
  • Understand the key analytical tools in strategy and strategic management.
  • Develop insight into international strategy.
  • Prepare a strategic plan for an organisation.
  • Confidence in developing and leading strategic developments.

Cognitive and key skills

By the end of this module the student should be able to demonstrate development of the following abilities and skills. These skills are mapped to the functional areas of Management standards.

A - Managing self

            A2 - Manage your own resources and professional development.

B - Providing Direction

            B2 -  Map the environment in which the organisation operates

            B3 -  Develop a strategic business plan

D - Working with People

            D2 – Develop productive working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.

F – Achieving results

Learning outcomes

Successfully completing this module will allow students to:

  1. Think strategically
  2. Analyse the current and future environments of organisations
  3. Develop strategy appropriate for creating the future and achieving sustainable competitive advantage.

Please note: This information is subject to review and change without notice.