Faculty
Phillip Christopher Nell

Course Coordinator
Phillip Christopher Nell

Course status
This is a theoretically founded course introducing the basics of the strategy field and forms the basis for second semester courses in corporate strategy and applied corporate finance and governance.

This course will provide the students with intimate understanding of the strategic management process and furnish a variety of theoretical perspectives and models. Strategic management is conceived as a rational approach to strategy formulation and the course introduces the analytical techniques adopted in this context but also conceives strategy as a process driven by ongoing decision making situations. Hence, the course provides students with a thorough grounding in the diverse approaches used within the strategy field. Strategic management integrates different perspectives introduced in other academic disciplines including finance, accounting, marketing, etc. Organizational structures and the surrounding competitive environment are characterized by increasing specialization and complexity, which underscores the importance of integrative capabilities in the strategy formation process. A major aim of this course is to refine the strategic thinking skills and allow students to apply different theoretical frameworks critically in the analysis of strategic issues.

Strategic management is a highly eclectic field that has applied ideas and perspectives from many different academic disciplines. Therefore, the course will emphasize this diversity and seek to develop a deeper understanding and an appreciation of the many facets that surround strategic decision making processes including competitor analysis, competition, alliances, core competencies, organizational learning, dynamic knowledge creation, strategic responsiveness, etc. Managing the strategy process does not equate to a mechanical application of management tools, but constitutes an intellectual exercise often incorporating paradoxical approaches. To this end, the course will explore the implications of different strategy making modes through selective use of case examples and open class discussions.

The exam will consist of the preparation of a scientific (subject-related) paper (maximum 10 A4 pages) integrating topics taught in the course. The scientific paper can be completed individually or in groups of two. The exam is graded by faculty. Assessment will be made individually.

All exam papers written by 2 students or more which are not followed by an oral exam must include an appendix stating the precise work load of each student.

Lectures and open class discussions.

A selection of research and professional articles tailored to the course.