Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Unit Convenor
Douglas Howe
Contact via douglas.howe@mq.edu.au
Email for an appointment at a mutually convenient time.
Moderator
Deborah Howlett
Contact via deborah.howlett@mq.edu.au
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Credit points |
Credit points
3
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Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
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Corequisites |
Corequisites
BBA102
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Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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Unit description |
Unit description
An organisations' business model and structure substantially influence its short and long term profitability. This unit examines various organisation structure types and their application; business models (the set of activities which a firm performs, how it performs them, and when it performs them), their selection, costing and performance; and the compatibility between structure types and business models. While an organisation's structure is evident, this unit examines the factors that are considered in the selection of a structure. In particular it examines the business model and the elements of the business model including sources of revenue, resources, capabilities, costs, profitability and competitive advantage.
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Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
Name | Weighting | Due |
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Individual Report | 30% | 24th April 2014 (Week 6) |
Group Report | 30% | 22nd May 2014 (Week 10) |
Final Examination | 40% | As per University timetable |
Due: 24th April 2014 (Week 6)
Weighting: 30%
As an analyst, you are required to complete the specified exercise, answer the associated questions and make relevant recommendations. Students are expected to develop coherent arguments, founded on thorough research, and provide insight into the topic area.
Each student shall submit an Individual Report of 2,000 words, excluding reference list and appendices, at the start of class on Thursday 24th April, 2014 (Week 6). The required format for the assignment is a REPORT. Include the word count at the end of report.
Details of the Individual Report, including submission, Turnitin, marking standards, referencing requirements and presentation requirements are available in the Individual Report documentation posted on iLearn.
There is no extension of time for submission of the Individual Report. Late submissions will be penalised 10% per day (or part thereof) of the maximum marks for 5 days, and then zero marks. Late assignments should be submitted to the MQC Office to be date stamped and forwarded to your tutor for marking. Note: electronic assignments will NOT be marked. This penalty does not apply for cases in which an application for special consideration is made and approved
Due: 22nd May 2014 (Week 10)
Weighting: 30%
Each student group is required to participate in a business simulation exercise. The group will assume the role of a company board in setting business strategies and models. The group will then compete in the “market” against other companies (other groups) in a time limited business simulation.
The report is to be completed in groups, which will be organised in your tutorial class. Groups of 3-4 max. will be formed and they will complete a Team Agreement Form and Confirm Group Project organisation. Each team member is required to complete a peer participation assessment.
Details of the Group Report, including submission, Turnitin requirements, marking standards, referencing requirements and presentation requirements are available in the Group Report documentation posted on iLearn.
If you do not attend and join a group you will be unable to receive marks for this assessment. Any student not in a group by week 4 will find it very difficult to successfully complete the unit.
Report Submission: The maximum report length is 3000 words, excluding reference list and appendices. Include the word count at the end of report.
Reports shall be submitted at the start of class on Thursday 22nd May 2014 (Week 10).
There is no extension of time for submission of the Group Report. Late submissions will be penalised 10% per day (or part thereof) of the maximum marks for 5 days, and then zero marks. Late assignments should be submitted to MQC office to be date stamped and forwarded to your tutor for marking. Note: electronic assignments will NOT be marked. This penalty does not apply for cases in which an application for special consideration is made and approved.
Due: As per University timetable
Weighting: 40%
Details of the Final Examination will be posted on iLearn.
A compulsory three hour final exam will be set during the exam period. The examination will be ‘closed book’. The format of the final exam will be long essay questions.
You are expected to present yourself for examination at the time and place designated in the University Examination Timetable. The timetable will be available in Draft form approximately eight weeks before the commencement of the examinations and in Final form approximately four weeks before the commencement of the examinations. Refer to http://www.timetables.mq.edu.au/exam
The only exception to not sitting an examination at the designated time is because of documented illness or unavoidable disruption. In these circumstances you may wish to consider applying for Special Consideration. The University’s policy on special consideration process is available at http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/special_consideration/policy.html
If a Supplementary Examination is granted as a result of the Special Consideration process the examination will be scheduled after the conclusion of the official examination period.
The Macquarie university examination policy details the principles and conduct of examinations at the University. The policy is available at: http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/examination/policy.htm
This unit has 3 hours face-to-face teaching per week consisting of 1 x 2 hour lecture and 1 x 1 hour tutorial
All additional Unit information is available either on iLearn or via the University Library (databases or eReserve)
The timetable for classes can be found on the University web site at:http://www.timetables.mq.edu.au/
Classes may vary due to public holidays. Any variations will be advised via iLearn.
Attendance at tutorials is compulsory. Warning: You must attend at least 10 of the 12 sessions – failure to do so may lead to major deduction from your group-work contribution.
Technologies Used:
Access to a personal computer and a good, reliable Internet connection is required to complete the Group Report.
You will be required to participate in informal presentations throughout the semester. In addition pop quizzes may be distributed in the tutorials at random dates.
Once the tutorial groups are formed, students cannot change their classes.
Medical certificates must be provided if you are not able to attend a class without incurring a penalty.
Students are expected to arrive on time, and not to leave until the class ends.
If you have a recurring problem that makes you late, or forces you to leave early, have the courtesy to discuss this with your lecturer/tutor.
Mobiles should be turned off during classes; not simply set to “silent”.
All laptops must be turned OFF in class.
Students who disturb or disrupt in class sessions will be asked to leave
All students shall complete a peer assessment for the Group Report.
The lecturer has the final say in the adjustment of group report marks taking into account peer assessment ratings.
Required Text Books
Prescribed texts available for purchase at the University Bookshop
· Newth, F (2012), Business Models and Strategic Management: A New Integration, Business Expert Press, New York.
ISBN (paperback): 978-1-60649-401-1
ISBN (e-book): 978-1-60649-402-8
· Osterwalder, A & Pigneur, Y, (2010), Business Model Generation, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, New Jersey.
ISBN (paperback): 978-0470-87641-1
ISBN (e-book): 978-1-118-65640-2
· Robbins, Stephen P. and Barnwell, Neil (2006). Organisation Theory: Concepts and Cases, 5th edn, Pearson, Frenchs Forest.
ISBN 978 0 73397 471 7
Print copies are also held in the Library's Reserve section. Electronic copies (where available) are also available from the Library. The covers of the texts are shown on the iLearn website
Changes to the Unit
The unit has been changed in the following ways from 2013
(i) Text books have been changed in the Business Model component
(ii) Case studies in Business Model tutorials have been changed
(iii) Assessments have been changed.
Week |
Lecture Schedule |
Key Activities & Tutorial focus |
1 17/03 |
Introduction and Overview Explanation of unit outline & course expectations What is a Business Model Reading: Newth: Module 1
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Activity: Restaurant Mind Map (see iLearn for details) Business Model Generation "Canvas" exercise. |
2 24/03 |
Business Models & Financial Management Reading: Newth: Module 2, Osterwalder: Canvas |
Boardroom Discussion: What is Financial Viability? The eBay Story. Group formation
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3 31/03 |
Business Models and Strategic Directions Reading: Newth: Module 3, Osterwalder: Patterns
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Boardroom Discussion: What is a Revenue Model? The Google Story.. |
4 07/04 |
Business Models and Competitive Advantage Reading: Newth: Module 4, Osterwalder: Patterns (cont.) |
Boradroom Discussion: What are Strategic and Financial Objectives and the Strategies to Achieve Them? The Nokia Story.
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5 14/04 |
Business Models and Strategy Reading: Newth: Module 5, Osterwalder: Strategy |
Boradroom Discussion: What is a Competency? The Samsung Electronics Story.
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6 21/04 |
Business Models and Innovation Reading: Newth: Module 6, Osterwalder: Strategy (cont.) |
Boradroom Discussion: What is an Operational Strategy? The Amazon Story. Individual Reports due in Class.
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7 28/04 |
Business Model Agenda Reading: Newth: Module 7, Osterwalder: Design
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Boradroom Discussion: What is an Innovation Team? The HP Story. |
8 05/05 |
Business Model Design Process Reading: Osterwalder: Process
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Boradroom Discussion: Business Model Agenda: The Facebook Story. |
9 12/05 |
Dimensions of Structure Reading: Robbins & Barnwell Chapter 4
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Case Study/Discussion R&B p.139: Flight Centre |
10 19/05 |
Impact of Size Reading: Robbins & Barnwell Chapter 6 |
Case Study/Discussion R&B p.207: McDonald's & James' Café. Group Reports due in class.
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11 26/05 |
Impact of Technology Reading: Robbins & Barnwell Chapter 7
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Case Study/Discussion R&B p.248: IT and the NAB |
12 02/06 |
Managing Growth and Decline Reading: Robbins & Barnwell Chapter 14 |
Case Study/Discussion R&B p.463: General Motors. Group Report Returned
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13 19/06 |
Revision |
Revision |
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
Academic Honesty Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html
Assessment Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy.html
Grading Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grading/policy.html
Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html
Grievance Management Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grievance_management/policy.html
Disruption to Studies Policy http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/disruption_studies/policy.html The Disruption to Studies Policy is effective from March 3 2014 and replaces the Special Consideration Policy.
In addition, a number of other policies can be found in the Learning and Teaching Category of Policy Central.
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/support/student_conduct/
Grades
Macquarie University uses the following grades in coursework units of study:
· HD - High Distinction
· D - Distinction
· CR - Credit
· P - Pass
· F – Fail
Grade descriptors and other information concerning grading are contained in the Macquarie
University Grading Policy which is available at:
http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grading/policy.html
For further information, please refer to the following link:
http://universitycouncil.mq.edu.au/legislation.html
Grade Appeals and Final Examination Script Viewing
If, at the conclusion of the unit, you have performed below expectations, and are considering lodging an appeal of grade and/or viewing your final exam script please refer to the following website which provides information about these processes and the cut off dates in the first instance. Please read the instructions provided concerning what constitutes a valid grounds for appeal before appealing your grade.
http://www.city.mq.edu.au/reviews-appeals.html
Special Consideration Policy
The University is committed to equity and fairness in all aspects of its learning and teaching. In stating this commitment, the University recognises that there may be circumstances where a student is prevented by unavoidable disruption from performing in accordance with their ability. A special consideration policy exists to support students who experience serious and unavoidable disruption such that they do not reach their usual demonstrated performance level.The policy is available at: http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/special_consideration/policy.html
The University defines serious and unavoidable disruption to studies as resulting from an event or set of circumstances that:
A Special Consideration application is deemed to be valid if all the following criteria have been satisfied:
Unacceptable grounds for Special Consideration
The University has determined that some circumstances are not acceptable grounds for claiming Special Consideration. These grounds include, but are not limited, to:
Acute Problems
The University defines acute problems as those involving fewer than three (3) consecutive days within a study period. In these cases, students should not apply for special consideration via ask.mq.edu.au, but contact their Unit Convenor within 5 working days of the assessment due date so that a local solution may be discussed, except where the disruption affects completion of a final examination. (If a final examination is affected, the student should submit a special consideration application via ask.mq.edu.au.)
Prior Conditions Conditions existing prior to commencing a unit of study are not grounds for Special Consideration, except in the event of unavoidable deterioration of the condition. The student is responsible for managing their workload in light of any known or anticipated problems. Students with a pre-existing disability/ chronic health condition may contact the Disability Service for information on available support.
In submitting a request for Special Consideration, the student is acknowledging that they may be required to undertake additional work and agreeing to hold themselves available so that they can complete any extra work as required. The time and date, deadline or format of any required extra assessable work as a result of an application for Special Consideration is not negotiable.
Attendance at Macquarie City Campus
All Students are required to attend at least 80% of the scheduled course contact hours each Session. Additionally Macquarie City Campus monitors the course progress of international students to ensure that the student complies with the conditions of their visa relating to attendance.
This minimum level of attendance includes all lectures and tutorials. Tutorial attendance will be recorded weekly. If any scheduled class falls on a public holiday this will be rescheduled as advised by your Lecturer. Attendance at any mid-Session or in-class test is compulsory unless otherwise stated.
Unavoidable non-attendance due to illness or circumstances beyond your control must be supported by appropriate documentation to be considered for a supplementary test. Other non-attendance will obtain zero for the test. You should refer to the section above on Special Consideration for more details about this.
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.
Student Support at Macquarie City Campus
Students who require assistance are encouraged to contact the Student Services Manager at Macquarie City Campus. Please see reception to book an appointment.
Macquarie University provides a range of Academic Student Support Services. Details of these services can be accessed at http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
At any time students (or groups of students) can book our Student Advising rooms on Level 6 by emailing info@city.mq.edu.au with a day and time and nominated contact person. There are additional student study spaces available on Level 1.
Macquarie University Campus Wellbeing also has a presence on the City Campus each week. If you would like to make an appointment, please email info@city.mq.edu.au or visit their website at: http://www.campuslife.mq.edu.au/campuswellbeing
StudyWISE provides:
· Online learning resources and academic skills workshops http://www.mq.edu.au/learning_skills
· Personal assistance with your learning & study related questions
Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.
For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://informatics.mq.edu.au/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
IT Help at Macquarie City Campus
If you wish to receive IT help, we would be glad to assist you at http://informatics.mq.edu.au/help/ or call 02 9850-4357.
When using the university's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students and it outlines what can be done.
Students must use their Macquarie University email addresses to communicate with staff as it is University policy that the University issued email account is used for official University communication.
Students are expected to act responsibly when utilising Macquarie City Campus IT facilities. The following regulations apply to the use of computing facilities and online services:
· Accessing inappropriate web sites or downloading inappropriate material is not permitted.
· Material that is not related to coursework for approved unit is deemed inappropriate.
· Downloading copyright material without permission from the copyright owner is illegal, and strictly prohibited. Students detected undertaking such activities will face disciplinary action, which may result in criminal proceedings.
Non-compliance with these conditions may result in disciplinary action without further notice.
If you would like to borrow headphones for use in the Macquarie City Campus computer labs (210, 307, 311, 608) at any point, please ask at Level 2 Reception. You will be required to provide your MQC Student ID card. This will be held as a deposit while using the equipment.
For assistance in the computer labs, please see a Lab Demonstrator (usually they can be found in Lab 311, otherwise ask at Level 2 Reception).
We want our graduates to have emotional intelligence and sound interpersonal skills and to demonstrate discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgement. They will exercise initiative as needed. They will be capable of risk assessment, and be able to handle ambiguity and complexity, enabling them to be adaptable in diverse and changing environments.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our graduates will take with them the intellectual development, depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content in their chosen fields to make them competent and confident in their subject or profession. They will be able to demonstrate, where relevant, professional technical competence and meet professional standards. They will be able to articulate the structure of knowledge of their discipline, be able to adapt discipline-specific knowledge to novel situations, and be able to contribute from their discipline to inter-disciplinary solutions to problems.
This graduate capability is supported by:
We want our graduates to be capable of reasoning, questioning and analysing, and to integrate and synthesise learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments; to be able to critique constraints, assumptions and limitations; to be able to think independently and systemically in relation to scholarly activity, in the workplace, and in the world. We want them to have a level of scientific and information technology literacy.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our graduates should be capable of researching; of analysing, and interpreting and assessing data and information in various forms; of drawing connections across fields of knowledge; and they should be able to relate their knowledge to complex situations at work or in the world, in order to diagnose and solve problems. We want them to have the confidence to take the initiative in doing so, within an awareness of their own limitations.
This graduate capability is supported by:
This unit uses research from external sources. This unit gives you practice in applying research findings in your assessments.
Assessment statements and implications must be supported by relevant references that may be sourced from the following:
· Academic articles
· Relevant textbooks
· Periodicals
· Newspapers
· Relevant online sources
Details of reference requirements are contained in each assessment. However, you are required to identify and evaluate relevant research findings and apply them to your assessments.
Examples of some of these reference options are listed below.
References – Academic Journals
There is a range of journals in the fields of business, management, strategic management and organisation structure. Most are available on the library databases:
• Academy of Management Executive
• Academy of Management Review
• Journal of Strategic Marketing
• Sloan Management Review
• Harvard Business Review
• Long Range Planning
References – Periodicals.
There is a range of periodicals and web pages in the fields of business, management and strategic management. We will visit these materials in tutorials as part of our discussion of the subject.
· Business Week
· The Economist
· Fortune
· The Asian Wall Street Journal and The Wall Street Journal
· Far Eastern Economic Review.