Students

MGSM842 – Business Performance Measurement and Management

2018 – Term 3 Hong Kong

General Information

Download as PDF
Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff
Mike Healy
Credit points Credit points
4
Prerequisites Prerequisites
MGSM840
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description
This unit discusses developments in the effective measurement and management of business performance. It aims to provide participants with: technical expertise in the application of measurement tools; an ability to critically evaluate performance measurement and management alternatives; and an understanding of how to design performance measurement systems to achieve their intended objectives. Topics covered include: managing effectively through “the financials”; shareholder-value based frameworks including EVA™; integrated performance measurement including the balanced scorecard; and the management of intangibles and corporate social responsibility.

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Critically evaluate business performance using appropriate techniques and frameworks so that evidence-based-decisions are made when implementing new metrics and measures of business unit and individual performance.
  • Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative performance analysis frameworks and metrics that have emerged in different cultures such as the prevalence of intangible asset monitoring and reporting in Scandinavia.
  • Integrate ethical, social and environmental factors into the design of performance management systems, impact metrics and key performance indicators across a range of organisational activities.
  • Critically assess how business performance measurement and management systems impact on the creation and delivery of sustainable value at various levels of an organisation.

Assessment Tasks

Name Weighting Hurdle Due
In Class Assessment 15% No 8 September 2018
Syndicate Assignment 35% No 26 September 2018
Final Examination 50% No 6 October 2018

In Class Assessment

Due: 8 September 2018
Weighting: 15%

Duration: 60 minutes plus 5 minutes reading time

An in-class assessment will be held during the second weekend of classes. This will take the form of a quiz held under closed-book circumstances (one single-sided A4 sheet of study notes is permitted) and will cover selected topics covered from the first weekend of classes.

 


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Critically evaluate business performance using appropriate techniques and frameworks so that evidence-based-decisions are made when implementing new metrics and measures of business unit and individual performance.
  • Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative performance analysis frameworks and metrics that have emerged in different cultures such as the prevalence of intangible asset monitoring and reporting in Scandinavia.
  • Critically assess how business performance measurement and management systems impact on the creation and delivery of sustainable value at various levels of an organisation.

Syndicate Assignment

Due: 26 September 2018
Weighting: 35%

A syndicate assignment will be launched at the beginning of the unit. Working in groups, this will require an analysis of a company and, in particular the development of a business performance measurement and management system. It is expected this assignment will be required to be submitted by 5pm HK Time, Wednesday, 26th September (i.e. week before the final exam) electronically to mike.healy@yahoo.com and in iLearn. Further details will be given in class.

No extensions will be granted. There will be a deduction of 10% of the total available marks made from the total awarded mark for each 24 hour period or part thereof that the submission is late (for example, 25 hours late in submission – 20% penalty). This penalty does not apply for cases in which an application for special consideration is made and approved.


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Critically evaluate business performance using appropriate techniques and frameworks so that evidence-based-decisions are made when implementing new metrics and measures of business unit and individual performance.
  • Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative performance analysis frameworks and metrics that have emerged in different cultures such as the prevalence of intangible asset monitoring and reporting in Scandinavia.
  • Integrate ethical, social and environmental factors into the design of performance management systems, impact metrics and key performance indicators across a range of organisational activities.
  • Critically assess how business performance measurement and management systems impact on the creation and delivery of sustainable value at various levels of an organisation.

Final Examination

Due: 6 October 2018
Weighting: 50%

The final exam is a closed book exam [one (1) double-sided A4 sheet of notes permitted; the sheet must be turned in with your exam booklet(s)] and will cover all materials of the whole term. More details on the exam will be provided in class.

3 hours plus 10 minutes reading time.

You are expected to present yourself for examination at the scheduled time and place designated in the MGSM Hong Kong Student website. Examination dates are recorded on the timetable.


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Critically evaluate business performance using appropriate techniques and frameworks so that evidence-based-decisions are made when implementing new metrics and measures of business unit and individual performance.
  • Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative performance analysis frameworks and metrics that have emerged in different cultures such as the prevalence of intangible asset monitoring and reporting in Scandinavia.
  • Integrate ethical, social and environmental factors into the design of performance management systems, impact metrics and key performance indicators across a range of organisational activities.
  • Critically assess how business performance measurement and management systems impact on the creation and delivery of sustainable value at various levels of an organisation.

Delivery and Resources

Required Text

Kaplan, R. and Norton, D. (1996) The Balanced Scorecard: Translating Strategy into Action, Harvard Business Review Press, ISBN: 978-0-87584-651-4

MGSM iLearn

The web page for this unit can be found at: https://ilearn.mq.edu.au/login/MGSM

Unit Schedule

Students are required to attend all classes.

First Block: 31 August - 2 September 2018

Second Block: 7 - 9 September 2018

Time of class: Friday 6pm - 10pm (Hong Kong time)
  Saturday 2pm - 10pm (Hong Kong time)
  Sunday 9am - 5pm (Hong Kong time)

The unit will be presented as follows:

 

Session

Topic Subject

Case Study

 

1

The BPMM Challenge

 

Strand 1: financial performance

2

Strategic Profitability Analysis

The Mirabella Case

3

Managing Activities for Improved Effectiveness/Efficiency

Cola Drinks Ltd

4

Shareholder Value Management

Best Goods

Strand 2: integrated performance thinking

5

Balanced Scorecard and Strategy Maps

Store24

6

Aligning Financial and Operating Models of Business

 

7

Implementing Performance Management Systems

Marshall and Gordon

Strand 3: contemporary issues

8

Managing Intangibles and Innovation

 

9

Managing Corporate Social Responsibility

Nike

 

10

Unit Wrap Up

 

Learning and Teaching Activities

Active Learning

The unit will use a flexible class structure as appropriate to deliver on the topic’s learning objectives. The structure of classes will typically comprise: 1. Lectures – for the introduction and overview of new material; 2. Case study discussions – application of concepts and frameworks; and 3. Group presentations (informal) – peer-led discussions and critiques of unit content drawing on the unique and diverse experiences amongst the class-room. A significant component of this unit is delivered using experiential learning principles. In-class case studies form an essential component of practically applying, understanding and critiquing unit content. As such, it is imperative that case-studies are pre-read prior to attending classes. Active participation will be required from all students.

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Undergraduate students seeking more policy resources can visit the Student Policy Gateway (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/student-policy-gateway). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

If you would like to see all the policies relevant to Learning and Teaching visit Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central).

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/study/getting-started/student-conduct​

Results

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Learning Skills

Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.

Student Services and Support

Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.

Student Enquiries

For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

Graduate Capabilities

PG - Capable of Professional and Personal Judgment and Initiative

Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Critically evaluate business performance using appropriate techniques and frameworks so that evidence-based-decisions are made when implementing new metrics and measures of business unit and individual performance.
  • Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative performance analysis frameworks and metrics that have emerged in different cultures such as the prevalence of intangible asset monitoring and reporting in Scandinavia.
  • Integrate ethical, social and environmental factors into the design of performance management systems, impact metrics and key performance indicators across a range of organisational activities.
  • Critically assess how business performance measurement and management systems impact on the creation and delivery of sustainable value at various levels of an organisation.

Assessment tasks

  • In Class Assessment
  • Syndicate Assignment
  • Final Examination

PG - Discipline Knowledge and Skills

Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Critically evaluate business performance using appropriate techniques and frameworks so that evidence-based-decisions are made when implementing new metrics and measures of business unit and individual performance.
  • Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative performance analysis frameworks and metrics that have emerged in different cultures such as the prevalence of intangible asset monitoring and reporting in Scandinavia.
  • Critically assess how business performance measurement and management systems impact on the creation and delivery of sustainable value at various levels of an organisation.

Assessment tasks

  • In Class Assessment
  • Syndicate Assignment
  • Final Examination

PG - Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking

Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Critically evaluate business performance using appropriate techniques and frameworks so that evidence-based-decisions are made when implementing new metrics and measures of business unit and individual performance.
  • Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative performance analysis frameworks and metrics that have emerged in different cultures such as the prevalence of intangible asset monitoring and reporting in Scandinavia.
  • Integrate ethical, social and environmental factors into the design of performance management systems, impact metrics and key performance indicators across a range of organisational activities.
  • Critically assess how business performance measurement and management systems impact on the creation and delivery of sustainable value at various levels of an organisation.

Assessment tasks

  • In Class Assessment
  • Syndicate Assignment
  • Final Examination

PG - Research and Problem Solving Capability

Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Critically evaluate business performance using appropriate techniques and frameworks so that evidence-based-decisions are made when implementing new metrics and measures of business unit and individual performance.
  • Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative performance analysis frameworks and metrics that have emerged in different cultures such as the prevalence of intangible asset monitoring and reporting in Scandinavia.

Assessment tasks

  • In Class Assessment
  • Syndicate Assignment
  • Final Examination

PG - Effective Communication

Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Critically evaluate business performance using appropriate techniques and frameworks so that evidence-based-decisions are made when implementing new metrics and measures of business unit and individual performance.
  • Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative performance analysis frameworks and metrics that have emerged in different cultures such as the prevalence of intangible asset monitoring and reporting in Scandinavia.
  • Integrate ethical, social and environmental factors into the design of performance management systems, impact metrics and key performance indicators across a range of organisational activities.
  • Critically assess how business performance measurement and management systems impact on the creation and delivery of sustainable value at various levels of an organisation.

Assessment tasks

  • In Class Assessment
  • Syndicate Assignment
  • Final Examination

PG - Engaged and Responsible, Active and Ethical Citizens

Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Critically evaluate business performance using appropriate techniques and frameworks so that evidence-based-decisions are made when implementing new metrics and measures of business unit and individual performance.
  • Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative performance analysis frameworks and metrics that have emerged in different cultures such as the prevalence of intangible asset monitoring and reporting in Scandinavia.
  • Integrate ethical, social and environmental factors into the design of performance management systems, impact metrics and key performance indicators across a range of organisational activities.
  • Critically assess how business performance measurement and management systems impact on the creation and delivery of sustainable value at various levels of an organisation.

Assessment tasks

  • Syndicate Assignment
  • Final Examination

Changes from Previous Offering

No changes from previous offering

Alignment with MGSM's mission-driven attributes

 

  • Leadership: The unit enabled me to develop comprehensive and long-term approaches to analysing and managing business performance through evidence-based approaches.
  • Global mindset: The unit enhanced my ability to assess the implications of strategic decisions from a whole of entity perspective, across of a wide spectrum of stakeholders.
  • Citizenship: The unit has developed my understanding of creating long-term value through the investment in intangibles and intellectual capital and through corporate social responsibility respectively, and enabled me to adapt business performance measurement and management to deliver on these ends.
  • Creating sustainable value: The unit developed my understanding of different approaches to corporate social responsibility, the challenges these create for business performance measurement and management systems and how organizations should respond to these.

Attendance Policy (MGSM)

The interactive environment of the classroom is central to the MGSM experience. Students are required to attend the full duration of all classes for the units in which they are enrolled. We recognise that exceptional circumstances may occur, such as unavoidable travel on behalf of your organization or the serious illness or injury of you or a close family member.

Special consideration may be given for a maximum of 20% non-attendance for such circumstances as long as lecturers are contacted in advance, and supporting documentation provided, to request exemption from attendance. Failure to abide by these conditions may result in automatic withdrawal, with academic and/or financial penalty. The full Student Attendance Policy is published in the MGSM Student Handbook at https://students.mgsm.edu.au/handbook

Content Disclaimer

These unit materials and the content of this unit are provided for educational purposes only and no decision should be made based on the material without obtaining independent professional advice relating to the particular circumstances involved.

Changes since First Published

Date Description
18/06/2018 Replaced reference to Disruption to Studies policy with reference to Special Consideration policy.