Course Resources Archive

This module aims to analyze the interface between the organization and its global macro-environment. It examines how managers within organizations can make sense of their environments and 'manage' in increasingly uncertain, turbulent and hyper-competitive conditions. The module also considers the tools and frameworks that allow managers to generate a greater understanding of the general and specific environment in which they operate.

Organisational purpose and stakeholder analysis.

Analysis of the organisation and its general and specific macro-environment to include global political, legal, ethical, social, economic and technological change.

Analysis of the macro-economic environment and how it works  : domestic and international to include economic policy and its impact on organizations

The impact of globalization on organizations. Transnational businesses and the role in contemporary society. Growth of regional trading blocs and their implications for the global business environment.

Analysis of how markets work and fail. Industry and competitor analysis. Strategic groups. Market attractiveness: segmentation and positioning

Managing uncertainty: examination of tools that managers may use to make sense of uncertainty in the environment e.g. scenario planning in order to adapt to changing global environment

On successful completion of the module the student should be able:

1. to demonstrate an ability to analyze and evaluate the interface between the organization and its environment, and the impact that the environment has on management decisions;
2. to understand markets and competitors, and evaluate the dynamics of an industry;
3. to research and synthesize material from a range of sources, and examine specific organizational environments using appropriate analytical tools;
4. to evaluate practice in a range of organizational sectors with a view to recommending courses of action for management

Approximately 200 hours study time, split between
Staff / student contact: 30%
Student directed learning: 70%

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.