Strategic Management is an important subject. Importance is conferred on the discipline from its focus on the development and survival of organizations in both the private and public sectors. Strategy had long been studied and practiced outside of business schools in commercial, historical, philosophical and military contexts. It is considered to be both a capstone and a foundation subject for management thought and action, and draws on multiple theoretical inputs from institutional theory, marketing, sociology and most profoundly, economics and organisational behaviour.

• Introducing Strategy, Strategic dimensions, environments and business models. • Organisational strategy in the form of a business model canvas. • Organisational strategy in the form of a value chain. • Industry analyses. • Theories of competitive advantage.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1. Explain the strategy dimensions of content, context and process. 2. Analyse and discuss an organisation's business model 3. Identify, analyse and discuss an organisation's value chain 4. Consider and strategically analyse an organisation's industry 5. Apply and discuss market positioning and the resource-based view of the firm as core competitive advantage concepts.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1. Demonstrate through application that understanding organisational strategy required appreciation of powerful and useful theory. 2. Display an analytical strategic mind-set.

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While based on essential academic theories, concepts and techniques, there will also be significant focus afforded to individual personal development coupled with the practical application of learning within the workplace. This module will be delivered using a blended format, the online component will be facilitated by the University of Limerick's Virtual Learning Environment(VLE). The lecturer's responsibility is to be relevant, knowledgeable, interesting and responsive. Course material stresses not just best practice, but best thinking; however, we will encounter tools and techniques along the strategy journey which will help give us a foundation in a complex and critical subject. Although all lecture slides will be provided in advance, they are intended more to anchor and structure delivery, with the teaching approach intended to be more discursive with an emphasis on individual and group participation and exploratory exercises. Attendance at all live sessions is highly recommended. Attendance records may be taken at live sessions. The module will be assessed using Tutor Marked Assignment(s) TMA. Fulfilling UL Graduate Attributes: • Knowledgeable - Demonstrate Critical Thinking; Insight into latest developments and theoretical thinking • Creative - Use of a modern eLearning platform; innovative teaching techniques and methods of assessment. • Responsible - Appreciate the importance of adopting a responsible approach to their learning journey and also in their interactions with their peers especially in the context of group work. • Collaborative - Use of social media, online platforms and eLearning environments. • Articulate - Competency in conveying ideas clearly, effectively and professionally; recognition of the importance of effective written, verbal and digital communication skills