Course 2015-2016 a.y.

20484 - COMPETITION ANALYSIS AND STRATEGY


EMIT

Department of Management and Technology

Course taught in English

Go to class group/s: 31
EMIT (7 credits - I sem. - OBCUR  |  SECS-P/06)
Course Director:
ANDREA FOSFURI

Classes: 31 (I sem.)
Instructors:
Class 31: ANDREA FOSFURI



Course Objectives

This course introduces the key concepts, tools, and principles of strategy formulation and competitive analysis. Its main focus is on managerial decisions and actions that affect the performance and survival of business enterprises. The course takes a general management perspective, viewing the firm as a whole, and examining how policies in each functional area are integrated in order to produce a sustainable competitive advantage. 


The main goals of this course are to develop:

  1. a clear understanding of the key concepts and principles of strategy formulation and competitive analysis,
  2. a set of useful analytical skills, tools and techniques for analyzing a company strategically,
  3. the ability to take a general management perspective in analyzing a particular company,
  4. the ability to think critically and strategically,
  5. the ability to work in teams, and
  6. oral and written presentation skills through the analysis and reporting of case situations.

 


Course Content Summary

  • Introduction to management strategy.
  • Industry analysis.
  • Competitive analysis.
  • Internal analysis.
  • Cost and benefit advantages.
  • Sustainability of competitive advantage.
  • The horizontal and vertical scope of the firm.
  • Diversification.
  • Vertical integration.
  • Internationalization.

Detailed Description of Assessment Methods

Attending students:

The final evaluation consists of:
  • Class participation: Case analysis and team assignments.
  • Written exam with open-ended questions and multiple-choice questions. Only on the material specifically covered in class.

Non-attending students:

The final evaluation consists of:
  • Written exam with open-ended questions and multiple-choice questions. Questions cover all chapters of the textbook.

Textbooks

  • Grant. Contemporary Strategy Analysis. John Wiley and Sons. 8th Editions.
  • A selection of research articles, readings and business cases made available to the students at the beginning of the course.
Exam textbooks & Online Articles (check availability at the Library)
Last change 23/04/2015 16:14