Overview

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This course introduces core strategic management concepts, covering organizational purpose, governance, competitive forces, and emerging technologies. Learners gain practical frameworks to analyze and respond to dynamic business environments. It equips learners with tools to improve decision-making, manage stakeholders, and implement strategies that balance sustainability with economic goals. Real-world case studies highlight effective applications in diverse industries. The course combines theoretical foundations with practical exercises, readings, and video lectures, ensuring learners can connect principles to real organizational challenges. Ideal for business professionals, managers, and students seeking a strong strategic foundation. No prior experience in strategy is required, though familiarity with business concepts is beneficial. This course is part one of a three-course Specialization designed to provide a comprehensive learning pathway in this subject area. While it delivers standalone value and practical skills, learners seeking a more integrated and in-depth progression may benefit from completing the full Specialization. This Specialization is based on the book, Strategic Management, by Henk W. Volberda, Rick M. A. Hollen, Joana R. Pereira, Jatinder S. Sidhu, and Kevin Heij. Copyright ©2024 by Sage Publications Limited. All rights reserved, including rights for text and data mining and training of artificial technologies or similar technologies. Published by Sage Publications Limited, London. Used by arrangement with Sage Publications Limited.

Syllabus

Introduction to Strategic Management

This module introduces the foundational concepts of strategic management, exploring various definitions of strategy, models for achieving competitive advantage, and the process of strategy formation. Learners will examine both classical and contemporary perspectives, including descriptive schools and the Confront-Sense-Choose-Transform framework. By the end, participants will understand how organizations develop and implement strategies to sustain added value and outperform competitors.

Direction, Purpose and Sustainability

This module examines the distinctions and interconnections between mission, vision, values, and purpose in organizations, highlighting their roles in shaping strategic objectives and sustainable decision-making. Learners will explore how companies balance economic goals with environmental and social responsibilities, and how these foundational statements guide long-term strategy.

Stakeholders and Corporate Governance

This module explores the roles and influence of various stakeholders in corporate governance, examining different governance models and mechanisms for effective oversight. Learners will analyze how stakeholder interests impact strategic decision-making and compare governance practices across global contexts. The module also addresses emerging trends emphasizing long-term societal value.

Competitive Rivalry and Nonmarket Forces

This module explores how firms navigate competitive rivalry and adapt to external, nonmarket forces using frameworks like PESTEL analysis. Learners will examine concepts such as market commonality, resource similarity, and the impact of blurring industry boundaries on strategic decision-making. The module also covers how macro-environmental factors influence firm strategy and value creation.

Emerging Technologies

This module explores how emerging technologies such as Industry 4.0 and Web 3.0 are reshaping business models, organizational structures, and collaborative frameworks. Learners will examine technology life-cycle models, including the S-curve and Gartner Hype-cycle, to assess the evolution and impact of disruptive innovations. The module also delves into new organizational forms like DAOs enabled by blockchain technology.