Study Guide

Objective

After completing the course the student will be able to:
- Understand organizational functions and main business processes
- Describe business processes and process management principles
- Understand basic concepts of business operations and calculate key figures
- Identify different information management needs in business

Content

- Business plan
- Material-, information- and financial processes
- Business process management
- Business development

Materials

Materials created by the teacher, as well as an optional book/reading package.

Teaching methods

f2f training sessions, group work, personal reading, examination

Exam schedules

During the course, an exam will be held based on the lectures and other shared materials.

International connections

The course aims to introduce the student to the fundamentals of business through business development. Work involves developing a business idea, company, and its operations from both a strategic and operational perspective. Business development is done in small groups, and the output is presented, discussed, and evaluated in the form of a business plan. Students can tailor their own learning goals by choosing a business-related book or reading material of their interest. The exam aims to support the understanding of fundamental business concepts.

Student workload

Face-to-face instruction: 42 hours
Group work: 50 hours
Personal reading package: 30 hours
Exam: 10 hours

Content scheduling

weekly face-to-face training is delivered as introductory sessions and workshop work in small groups. Topics covered include, among others, product, customer segments, marketing communication, customer relationship management, data and goods flows, the concept of quality, business models, finance, and related concepts.

Evaluation scale

H-5

Assessment methods and criteria

The course grade is determined with the following weights:
50% for group work on business development presentations and final report (business plan)
25% for personal reading package
25% for personal exam

Group work requires personal initiative from the student, and peer feedback can be utilized in the assessment.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2)

The student uses key business terms and basic theories to report findings and observations. Can describe, classify, and list things. The output is descriptive but lacks reflection or insights. The student participates in group discussions.

Considerable guidance and support have been needed for the group's business idea planning. Collaboration within the group does not work or is difficult. Feedback has not been effectively utilized within the group. There are inconsistencies in the business plan, and it does not support the sale of the idea as desired. The course material and other sources have been used sparingly. The course concepts presented have not been applied in the plan. The plan is only partially feasible.

Assessment criteria, good (3-4)

The student understands the bigger picture and uses theory to describe it. Shows the ability to apply a principle related to the topic and can combine ideas. Utilizes acquired material in their own and group work. Participates in group discussions, is active in creating the business plan, and takes responsibility for group tasks.

The group's business idea is quite creative. It has been planned independently and in consensus with the entire group. The business plan is a clear and consistent document. The application of course concepts to their own business plan demonstrates expertise. The plan is largely feasible. The presentation is clear, understandable, and persuasive.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student identifies critical success factors for the industry and company, understands theory, and presents their findings with justification. Can identify areas for improvement and is a critical thinker. Can analyze cause-and-effect relationships and handle issues insightfully. High-quality background material has been independently sought and found, and its use is justified. The student actively, proactively, and responsibly participates in group discussions and takes the group's knowledge to a deeper level.

The group's business idea is innovative and creative. It has been planned enthusiastically, responsibly, and in consensus with the entire group. Various sources and course materials have been used extensively. The business plan and presentation are clear, understandable, consistent, persuasive, and creative. The plan is for most parts feasible.