21955 Innovative Strategies
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Credit points: 3 cp
Subject level:
Postgraduate
Result type: Grade and marksThere are course requisites for this subject. See access conditions.
Description
This subject gives students a rich and nuanced understanding of strategy. It covers classic strategic questions and topics but emphasises contemporary themes, for example, open innovation and open strategy, networks, platforms and other business model innovations, and the processes and practices of strategy and their effects. These topics are set in the context of the historic evolution of strategic management, and its likely trajectory. Students apply the tools and techniques of contemporary strategic analysis, and also reflect on the 'doing' of strategy, in the context of their own organisations and other real cases. In parallel, they are encouraged to develop a reflective and critical perspective on the implications and impacts of taken-for-granted strategy thinking, concepts and tools, and conversely are asked to consider the future of strategy, centred on how strategic management can provide solutions for pressing sustainability-related societal-level challenges.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
| 1. | apply tools and techniques to assess an organisation’s current business model and competitive position and develop strategic options on how it can gain sustainable competitive advantage |
|---|---|
| 2. | analyse different forms of innovation, including platforms and other business models, and their strategic significance |
| 3. | demonstrate an understanding of the ‘doing’ of strategy, drawing on student experience |
Contribution to the development of graduate attributes
The subject introduces students to key themes and perspectives in strategic management with a focus on contemporary themes, such as open innovation and open strategy, networks, platforms and other business model innovations. It also develops an understanding of the strategy process as a collective process involving multiple stakeholders.
This subject develops the following Program Learning Objectives:
1.2 Analyse business models and plans for business development purposes
2.3 Identify innovative business models in relation to disruptive technologies and trends
This subject contributes to the development of the following graduate attributes:
- GA1. Business knowledge and concepts – be able to operate effectively with business knowledge of sufficient depth in different professions, industry and society, both locally and globally.
- GA2. Critical thinking, creativity and analytical skills – be able to apply and demonstrate critical and analytical skills, and innovation in business practice.
Teaching and learning strategies
Classes will be based on blended and flipped learning approaches: students will have to engage with theoretical material, case studies, and contemporary media before coming to class. Classes will include guided critical assessment of this material, with teams responsible for leading discussion by theme. Guest speakers from a range of organisations will present their experiences and/or perspectives on contemporary strategy themes and the doing of strategy.
Content (topics)
- The evolution of strategic management
- Classic themes including competitive strategy and resources and capabilities
- Business models and business model innovation
- Contemporary themes including open innovation and open strategy
- Strategy, organisations and society, shared value, and other futures for strategic management.
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Strategic analysis and recommendations report
| Intent: | This develops Program Learning Objective/s – 1.2, 2.3 |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This addresses subject learning objective(s): 1, 2 and 3 |
| Type: | Report |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 100% |
Minimum requirements
Students must achieve at least 50% of the subject’s total marks and complete all components of the assessment.
Other resources
Materials provided via Canvas