2007 Handbooks

The purpose of this course is to equip the student with the ability to approach complex business problems from the cross-functional and multi-dimensional perspective of the general manager. The process of formulating and implementing competitive strategy at the business-level requires the systematic analysis of a firm's internal resources and capabilities in conjunction with a structured examination of the various dimensions of its (external) macro- and industry environments. Once this is achieved, management can develop appropriate strategies with which to pursue sustainable competitive advantage in domestic and international markets.

Students will learn how to use several diagnostic models to evaluate a firm's relative strengths and weaknesses, the threats and opportunities in its external environment, and the key issues that influence how the firm should compete. Case analysis will be used extensively to link concepts and frameworks to real-world examples. Group work will engage students in the challenges of interpersonal communication, task allocation, coordination and control.