ECX2831 · Strategy and business decision-making

Overview

Why do some firms perform better than others, and how should managers respond to complex business challenges? This unit introduces you to the core ideas, tools, and ways of thinking used in strategy, in a form accessible to learners from economics, management, marketing, finance, and related disciplines. No more than a basic prior exposure to economics is assumed. Through real-world cases and applied business problems, you will learn to analyse how organisations respond to competition, change, and uncertainty, and how strategic decisions are shaped by internal capabilities, market conditions, and broader business considerations. You will develop your ability to think critically, weigh evidence, work with ambiguity, and make well-reasoned recommendations. You will also strengthen your written and oral communication, collaboration, and respectful engagement with diverse perspectives, preparing you to contribute professionally and responsibly in a wide range of business contexts.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. describe and apply key concepts and frameworks relevant to strategic decision-making in organisations and business environments;
2. analyse and evaluate strategic issues by interpreting evidence, identifying trade-offs, and considering uncertainty and alternative courses of action;
3. develop well-reasoned recommendations to address complex business problems in real or simulated contexts;
4. communicate and justify strategic analysis and recommendations effectively, working respectfully and constructively with others where appropriate.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.