This Module Is Assessed By Coursework Assignment

This module is assessed by means of a coursework assignment. The summative

This module is assessed by means of a coursework assignment. The summative assessment requires students to analyze in detail the business outline or plan of an organization in the form of an individual report. The word limit for this report is 3,000 words, inclusive of all content such as the title, preface, introduction, in-text citations, quotations, footnotes, and other items, but excluding diagrams, tables, equations, executive summaries, acknowledgments, declaration, references, and appendices.

Students are expected to demonstrate critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to evaluate and apply concepts and theories taught during the module. They should employ their own research skills, seeking information independently, which may include interviewing small business owners to gain insights into enterprise development. However, an inability or unwillingness of business owners to participate will not negatively impact grades.

This task simulates real-world conditions where strategic analysis must be conducted with limited access to comprehensive information, requiring sound judgment based on available data. Students should integrate analysis tools and methods to produce richer strategic insights. The report must be well-structured, typed using 1.5 spacing, in an easy-to-read 12-point font, and securely bound, with double-sided printing encouraged.

Additionally, students are to prepare a PowerPoint presentation summarizing their assessment, intended for a 10-minute delivery.

Paper For Above instruction

The coursework assignment for this module is centered on in-depth analysis of a business plan or outline of a chosen organization, emphasizing critical evaluation and application of theoretical concepts. This comprehensive task is designed to mirror industry practices, requiring students to navigate information limitations and leverage strategic tools effectively.

In approaching this assignment, students should select an organization—preferably a small enterprise—and conduct meticulous research to inform their analysis. This investigative process can include interviews with business owners or managers, which will enrich understanding of enterprise development processes. Nonetheless, the absence of such interviews does not diminish the quality or validity of the submission. The core focus remains on developing a well-supported, insightful analysis that demonstrates a thorough grasp of strategic management principles.

The report must adhere to the specified word limit of 3,000 words. Within this limit, students should craft a structured narrative that includes an introduction to the organization, a detailed examination of its business model, market environment, competitive positioning, strengths and weaknesses, and strategic recommendations. Emphasizing critical thinking, students should evaluate the adequacy of the organization’s current strategies and propose viable improvements based on rigorous analysis.

Research methodologies are integral to this task. Students should employ various strategic analysis tools, such as SWOT, PESTEL, Porter’s Five Forces, and value chain analysis, to garner impactful insights. Integrating these methods allows for a comprehensive view of the organization's strategic landscape.

The report’s presentation must be professional and meticulously prepared. Use of clear headings, logical flow, and concise language will enhance readability and impact. The presentation component, a 10-minute PowerPoint, should distill key findings and strategic suggestions, offering clarity and engagement to an audience of peers or instructors.

Finally, the assignment emphasizes authenticity, academic honesty, and the thoughtful integration of primary and secondary sources. Proper referencing is crucial; all sources must be cited correctly, following a standard academic style such as APA. This ensures credibility and demonstrates scholarly rigor.

References

  • Barney, J. (1991). Firm resources and sustained competitive advantage. Journal of Management, 17(1), 99-120.
  • Grant, R. M. (2019). Contemporary Strategy Analysis (10th ed.). Wiley.
  • Hitt, M. A., Ireland, R. D., & Hoskisson, R. E. (2017). Strategic Management: Concepts and Cases. Cengage Learning.
  • Johnson, G., Scholes, K., & Whittington, R. (2017). Exploring Strategy. Pearson Education.
  • Porter, M. E. (1980). Competitive Strategy: Techniques for Analyzing Industries and Competitors. Free Press.
  • Thompson, A. A., Peteraf, M. A., Gamble, J. E., & Strickland, A. J. (2018). Crafting and Executing Strategy. McGraw-Hill Education.
  • Yin, R. K. (2018). Case Study Research and Applications. Sage Publications.
  • Wheelen, T. L., & Hunger, J. D. (2018). Strategic Management and Business Policy. Pearson.
  • Barrett, R., & Oborn, B. (2018). Strategic Entrepreneurship: Exploring innovation and venture creation. Journal of Business Venturing, 33(2), 161-174.
  • Day, G. S. (2014). The capabilities of market-driven organizations. Journal of Marketing, 58(4), 37-52.

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