Introductory description

This is an elective module available for WBS and non-WBS students. To find detailed availability and to apply for this module, log in to my.wbs.ac.uk using your normal IT login details and apply via the my.wbs module application system. Once you’ve secured a place on my.wbs you should apply via your home department’s usual process, which usually takes place via eVision. Note that you do not require the module leader’s permission to study a WBS module, so please do not contact them to request it.

In this module, we demonstrate the essential role of digital technology and information systems as drivers of business and innovation in organizations. We present digital business as a combination of technology, processes, and social connections inside and outside organizations.

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.

Networked enterprise:
disruptive technologies in the digital age
value chain thinking
context of organization

Business intelligence & analytics:
data, database management
business intelligence & analytics
knowledge management

E-commerce & digital marketing:
e-commerce (AR/VR/MR)
digital marketing

Learning outcomes

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

• Define digital business as a combination of technology, processes, and people
• Explain the role of information in decision-making and how to manage it using technologies and digital media
• Comprehend the role of technology and managing knowledge and business intelligence in organisations
• Demonstrate a detailed awareness of how technology is enabling and driving changes in the workplace, including changes to business models
• Discuss critically the role of technology in modern organisations
• Comprehend the key debates on competing technologies regarding the operating context

Indicative reading list

Valacich, J. S., Schneider, C. 2022., Hashim, M. Information Systems Today: Managing in the Digital World, (Nineth edition ed.). Harlow, England: Pearson.

Valacich, J. S., and Schneider, C. 2018. Information Systems Today: Managing in the Digital World, (Eighth edition ed.). Harlow, England: Pearson.

Laudon, K. C., and Laudon, J. P. 2018. Management Information Systems: Managing the Digital Firm, (Fifteenth edition ed.). Harlow, England: Pearson.

Scheepers, R., Lacity, M.C. and Willcocks, L.P., 2018. Cognitive Automation as Part of Deakin University's Digital Strategy. MIS Quarterly Executive, 17(2).

Chaffey, D. and Ellis-Chadwick, F., 2019. Digital Marketing. Pearson UK.

Turban, E., Whiteside, J., King, D., and Outland, J. 2017. Introduction to Electronic Commerce and Social Commerce, (4th edition ed.). Cham: Springer International Publishing.

Turban, E., Strauss, J., and Lai, L. 2016. Social Commerce: Marketing, Technology and Management, (1st ed. 2016 ed.). Cham: Springer International Publishing

Porter, M. E., and Heppelmann, J. E. 2014. "How Smart, Connected Products Are Transforming Competition," Harvard Business Review (92: 11), pp. 64-88.

Porter, M. E., and Heppelmann, J. E. 2015. "How Smart, Connected Products Are Transforming Companies," Harvard Business Review (93: 10), pp. 96-16.

Rigby, D. K. 2014. "Digital-Physical Mashups," Harvard Business Review (92: 9), pp. 84-92.

Research element

In the latest project assessment, students will be encouraged to read the conference proceedings to engage with the latest research findings and transfer this to real-life practice.

Interdisciplinary

Positioned in the business context, this module offers interdisciplinary insights from Management, Marketing, and Computer Science.

International

This module deliberately chooses cases from worldwide to promote developing countries (e.g. India, China) and distal neighbors (e.g. Australia).

Subject specific skills

Demonstrate database management.
Demonstrate data visualization & analytics.
Demonstrate programming.

Transferable skills

Demonstrate written communication skills.
Demonstrate problem solving skills.
Use appropriate information technology.
Exhibit leadership, team-building and project management skills