STR404 Strategic Analysis

• Topics

  The aim of this course is to provide an overview of the most important frameworks and new frontiers in strategic analysis, and teach the student when and how to apply these frameworks through a combination of lectures, case discussions, and group work.

  The course will include topics on the strategic purpose of firms, debating the impact of different types of purposes and goals in the context of strategic analysis, and how this relates to sustainable business practices. Moreover, we will cover analyses of the characteristics and attractiveness of markets, the forces affecting the development of markets, together with the uncertainties associated with these forces. The course also includes a part dedicated to the analysis of competitive advantage in a market, the sources of such an advantage, and ways to sustain it over time. Following these parts, we then move on to take a closer look at topics concerning strategic choice, strategic interactions, and the use of different types of strategy to fulfill the ambitions of the firm.

• Learning outcome

  In this course the students gain advanced knowledge in strategic analysis, building on their existing knowledge of basics in strategy. They learn about the theoretical basis of the strategic tools and frameworks, the new frontiers in strategic analysis, and how to apply these insights in practical settings.

  Knowledge - The candidate...

  • has advanced knowledge within strategic analysis and its frontiers
  • has detailed knowledge of the scholarly methods in strategic analysis

  Skills - The candidate...

  • can analyze and deal critically with various sources of information needed for the strategic analysis of firms and markets, and use them to structure and formulate relevant arguments
  • can utilize the relevant theories and methods on practical analyses
  • can communicate independent and group-based work through assignments and cases, and master the terminology of the field

  General competence - The candidate...

  • can apply his/her knowledge and skills in new areas in order to carry out strategic analysis in different contexts, including contexts with more sustainable business purposes and goals.

• Teaching

  In the autumn semester of 2024 classes will consist mostly of physical lectures, case discussions and group work. To encourage participation and discussion during classes they will as a rule not be recorded.

  Some of the more basic theoretical topics will be covered through short pre-recorded videos.

• Recommended prerequisites

  Students will be assumed to have had an introductory course in strategic management at the bachelor level

• Compulsory Activity

  Group based assignments that include groups preparing and conducting case discussions in class (approved/not approved).

  The case discussions will be conducted physically in class and in English.

• Assessment

  Group based term paper that accounts for 50% of the final grade, 3-4 students in each group.

  Four hour individual home exam (from 9 am to 1 pm) that accounts for 50% of the final grade.

  Both assessment elements have to be written in English.

  For students that wish to retake the course, the earlier course approval will still be valid. Students that wish to submit a new term paper should do so individually or in groups consisting of students retaking the course (max group size of 4). A new term paper submission has to be in accordance with the updated requirements and must be different from previous submissions in order to avoid plagiarism.

• Grading Scale

  A - F

• Literature

  Whittington, R. et al (2021 or 2023): Fundamentals of Strategy. 5th or 6th edition. Harlow, England: Pearson.

  Set of academic articles and chapter extracts announced at the start of the course.