Reference no: EM133676406

Discussion Post: Thesis- Business Strategy - Management- Business Strategy II-Capstone Project

The rationale of this course is to synthesize the knowledge and skills developed in previous business courses and apply them to a business plan. Students will be required to set and meet aggressive goals and meet regularly with course coordinators to ensure their research project (business plan) is progressing in a focused and high quality manner. The business plan should prove the student's independent ability to investigate and develop a business opportunity.

Aims of the module

This business plan will develop an original business idea or the future evolution of an existing company and will comprise on three key thematic areas:

The organizational plan that will study the business environment and derive a corporate strategy and provide an analysis of corporate operations and organizational plan achieving a consistent strategic fit.

The Marketing Plan in which the student describes and analyzes potential customers, namely who and where they are, what will make them buy, etc. Here, the student also describes the competition and how they'll compete

The Financial Plan containing the student's financial projections, which include their balance sheet, income and cash flow statement, break-even analysis, and financial ratios and capital requirements.

Knowledge and Understanding

I. Demonstrate the importance of preparing a business plan and conducting a feasibility study in an organized fashion identifying the elements of competitive advantage

II. Apply the analytical skills in the area of strategy, marketing, operations and finance which students have developed in other business courses.

III. Appreciate that innovation and management are crucial for the success of a business and recognize that a business plan is an important tool in raising capital and helps entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls.