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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Organisational Strategy
Reference BS4051 Version 3
Created December 2023 SCQF Level SCQF 10
Approved July 2019 SCQF Points 30
Amended March 2024 ECTS Points 15

Aims of Module
This module aims to provide students with a higher understanding of the key concepts and frameworks required for formulating strategy at an organisational level. Students will also develop the advanced analytical skills required to apply and reflect upon the principles and techniques of strategic management in a range of business contexts. Throughout the module, there is a focus on the importance of stakeholder embeddedness, resource value and capability identification, and the practical issues of strategic management.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Analyse and critically discuss the impact of external environmental forces on contemporary strategic thinking.
2 Critically evaluate the sources of competitive advantage available to organisations within a particular industry context.
3 Identify and critically evaluate the various strategic options available in various organisational situations.
4 Evaluate the practical issues related to strategy implementation and strategic change.
5 Critically reflect upon personal responses to the nature of strategic decision-making in specific organisational settings.

Indicative Module Content
Core concepts in and the evolution of thought on strategic management. The organisation within a broader strategy environment. The integration of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in organisational strategy. The strategic purpose of the organisation, challenging the assumption of economic drivers in strategy. The role of varied and often divergent stakeholders. The organisations as embedded in various contexts. The use and strategic value of resources and capabilities, including organisational culture. Implications of the political, contextual and relational understandings of strategy-as-practice. Issues of strategic change and organisational inertia. The role and challenges of business development. The role of sustainability in performance measurement and evaluation of strategy.

Module Delivery
This module is delivered in supported online learning mode using a range of structured learning materials/activities and directed study, facilitated by regular online tutor contact, allowing students to contextualise their learning to their own workplace where appropriate.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours N/A 30
Non-Contact Hours N/A 270
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL N/A 300
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Description: Report

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
Component 1 comprises 100% of the module grade. To pass the module, a D grade is required.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A A
B B
C C
D D
E E
F F
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 WHITTINGTON, R., REGNÉR, P., ANGWIN, D., JOHNSON, G. and SCHOLES, K., 2023. Exploring Strategy: Text and Cases. 13th ed. Harlow: Pearson
2 CLEGG, S.R., PITELIS, C. SCHWEITZER, J. and WHITTLE, A. 2023. Strategy Theory and Practice, 4th edition. London: SAGE edge.
3 GRANT, RM. 2022. Contemporary Strategy Analysis. 11th edition. Wiley.
4 Various academic and industry publications used throughout the module. Detailed as appropriate.

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781