Introductory description

The IBD module provides and understanding of the key aspects of the development and implementation of a systematic International Business Development strategy. Through consideration of the potential business relationships available and the relative benefits and risks, a methodology has been developed to allow the optimum approach to be determined for a business. As well as presenting theoretical approaches which may be considered, case studies and an international business relationship exercise are used to allow students to develop their practical skills.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The syllabus for the International Business Development (IBD) module will incorporate the following key areas:

• International Business Development (Theory & Sustainable Strategies).
• Types of international business relationships (Entry Modes).
• Financial, Legal and Operational aspects.
• Practicalities of international business development projects.
• Cultural aspects and Negotiation skills.
• International business development Syndicate Exercise (Case Study).

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Synthesise information and make informed judgements by critically applying the theoretical and practical concepts involved in different stages of the International Business Development Process.
• Critically evaluate global sustainable practices and how these influence strategies around different international market entry modes.
• Systematically analyse different context-related International Business Development challenges.
• Demonstrate, as a group, the ability to effectively negotiate and present a sustainable business development proposition taking into account potential cultural challenges and conflicting partners’ strategies.
• Couple 'backward-looking' analysis with 'forward-looking' decision-making; apply principles derived from the disciplines (finance, legal, and operational aspects) of international business development.

Indicative reading list

Generic Reading lists can be found in Talis

Specific reading list for the module can be found on

International

The module will consider a range of issues, theory and case studies, specifically in an international context.

Subject specific skills

The module provides development of a range of subject-specific skills, including:

• the ability to identify, evaluate and manage business risks, through appropriate contractual and financial mitigations.
• the ability to evaluate alternative business strategies from both a financial and broader business perspective.
• financial analysis in a business development context.
• the ability to identify the legal risks within the international business opportunity context.
• the ability to consider the key contractual issues in establishing international business relations in a confidential manner.

Transferable skills

The module will provide development of a range of transferrable business skill for participants, including:

• business report writing.
• management in a multi-cultural environment.
• negotiation (planning and implementation).
• time management and teamwork.