What is ERP System Implementation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises?

What is ERP System Implementation in Small and Medium Sized Enterprises

Introduction

Did you know that ERP System Implementation can boost operational efficiency and streamline business processes like never before? In the fast-evolving business landscape, ERP System Implementation has become a critical driver for enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring seamless business processes. It integrates various functions across an organization, enabling better communication and real-time data sharing. However, for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ERP System Implementation can present unique challenges, particularly due to their limited resources and distinctive operational characteristics. 

SAMEH MOHAMED ABDEL MOHSEN, DBA graduate of “IBAS” International Business School of Switzerland, conducted an in-depth study on the implementation of ERP systems in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Based on his research, this article will discuss the critical aspects of ERP System Implementation in SMEs, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities that these businesses face when adopting and integrating enterprise resource planning systems.

This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the SME context influences the ERP System Implementation, addressing various phases of the implementation life cycle and the particular requirements of these organizations.

 How Does the SME Context Influence ERP System Implementation?

The unique context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) plays a crucial role in ERP System Implementation. Key characteristics such as limited resources, low organizational maturity, and reliance on obsolete legacy systems all shape how these organizations approach and execute ERP integration. A thorough understanding of these challenges is vital for the successful adoption of an ERP system in SMEs.

  • Limited Resources: Due to budget constraints, SMEs often struggle to allocate adequate funds for the acquisition, customization, and maintenance of ERP systems, making ERP System Implementation a challenging task.
    • Organizational Maturity: The lower level of maturity in organizational processes can hinder the adoption of structured and complex systems like ERP, complicating ERP System Implementation.
    • Obsolete Legacy Systems: The continued reliance on outdated legacy systems can create obstacles in the migration process, increasing the complexity and resource demands of ERP System Implementation.

“The ownership type was identified as the most influential characteristic of the SME context. Certainly, the role of the owner-managers is unique compared to large enterprises.” (SAMEH, 2024)

How Does ERP System Customization Affect SMEs?

Customizing the ERP System Implementation is often essential for SMEs to address their unique business requirements. However, this customization can lead to increased costs, longer implementation timelines, and added complexity. Understanding the SME context is critical for vendors and consultants to recommend the right level of customization for a successful ERP System Implementation.

  • Business Process Analysis: A comprehensive analysis of existing business processes is necessary to determine the required level of customization and prevent unnecessary modifications in ERP System Implementation.
    • Stage of Organizational Growth: As SMEs evolve, their ERP needs may change, which could require additional customization to keep the system aligned with the company’s objectives during ERP System Implementation.
    • Owner-Manager’s Role: The active participation of the owner-manager is key to ensuring that the ERP System Implementation aligns with the company’s strategic goals, leading to a more effective and efficient integration process.

“SMEs should put an emphasis on a thorough business process analysis. However, the business process analysis can be constrained by insufficiently mapped business processes in SMEs, as a number of the activities are governed by informal rules and procedures.” (SAMEH, 2024)

What Are the Challenges in ERP System Selection for SMEs?

Selecting the right ERP System Implementation is a crucial decision for SMEs. Given their limited resources and early stage of growth, SMEs must carefully assess available ERP systems to choose one that aligns with their current and future needs while staying within their budget. The following factors influence the ERP selection process:

  • ERP System Maturity: The maturity level of the chosen ERP system directly affects the cost and complexity of system upgrades and development after “going-live,” which impacts the overall ERP System Implementation.
    • Local vs. Global Vendors: Local ERP vendors might offer more affordable systems, but this could result in higher costs for system maintenance and customization in the long run during ERP System Implementation.
    • Legacy System Conceptualization: SMEs often base their ERP system selection on outdated legacy systems, which may not be well-suited to future growth needs, affecting the efficiency of the ERP System Implementation.

“The level of ERP system maturity should be also considered while selecting an ERP system. Selection of ERP systems from local vendors offering less functionality compared to more expensive solutions, may result in a need for further customization after “going-live” that incurs increased costs for system maintenance and further development.” (SAMEH, 2024)

Why is Strategic Planning Essential for ERP System Utilization in SMEs?

Strategic planning plays a vital role in enabling SMEs to fully harness the potential of ERP System Implementation. Instead of focusing solely on the technology-driven aspects, SMEs should align the ERP system with their business objectives for more effective and sustainable integration.

  • Technology-Driven vs. Strategic Planning: ERP System Implementation in SMEs should be aligned with strategic goals rather than just addressing technology needs, ensuring it serves the broader business objectives.
    • Reduced Customization: By focusing on the core functionalities of the ERP system, SMEs can minimize the need for extensive customization, streamlining the ERP System Implementation process.
    • Increased Utilization of ERP Functionality: Strategic planning improves the overall utilization of ERP system features, making the ERP System Implementation more efficient and contributing to the organization’s long-term success.

“For SME managers, the study findings can be useful for increasing their understanding of the concerns related to ERP system implementation. They need to improve their strategic planning of IS utilization, instead of the motivation for the ERP implementation being mainly technology-driven.” (SAMEH, 2024)

How Can SMEs Effectively Evaluate ERP System Outcomes?

After the ERP System Implementation, it is essential for SMEs to assess its outcomes to determine if the system is fulfilling its objectives and delivering value. A robust evaluation process can help identify areas that may need improvement or further development.

  • Outcome Evaluation Frameworks: SMEs should adopt established frameworks to evaluate the success of ERP System Implementation and measure its effectiveness in achieving organizational goals.
    • Continuous Improvement: By recognizing the outcomes of ERP System Implementation, SMEs can make ongoing adjustments to enhance system performance and functionality.
    • Employee Training and Engagement: Regular training and active employee participation in the ERP System Implementation process can significantly boost the overall effectiveness and usability of the system.

“Finally, SMEs may increase their attention to outcome evaluation of the ERP system, as recognition of the ERP outcomes could improve further the use of the system. Therefore, SMEs should be aware of existing frameworks which can assist them in evaluating an ERP system implementation.” (SAMEH, 2024)

 

Conclusion

The implementation of ERP System Implementation in SMEs is a complex process that requires careful consideration of organizational characteristics, strategic planning, and resource allocation. Based on Sameh Mohamed Abdel Mohsen’s research, it is clear that a deep understanding of the SME context, coupled with a strategic and well-planned ERP System Implementation approach, is essential for success. By aligning ERP System Implementation with business processes and ensuring proper customization, SMEs can achieve greater efficiency, scalability, and long-term growth.

For those looking to excel in Business Administration, earning an MBA or DBA with a specialization in Business Management is a strategic choice. These advanced degrees offer a deep dive into key areas like organizational leadership, financial management, strategic planning, and decision-making, equipping you with the skills needed to tackle complex business challenges. The programs are designed to refine your ability to lead teams, manage operations, and drive innovation within organizations. By enrolling at IBAS–VERN, you will gain a competitive edge, access global networking opportunities, and unlock career advancements in top leadership roles, ensuring long-term success in the ever-evolving business world.

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      This unit aims to develop the knowledge, understanding, and skills necessary to develop an organizational strategic plan.

      Learning Outcomes

      • Understand the foundations for developing organizational strategy
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      • Be able to review an organization’s strategy and business plans
      • Be able to develop strategy options for an organization
      • Understand how to create a strategic plan to meet business objectives

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      The unit will equip you with the knowledge and understanding of the sources and use of finance in organizations and how to evaluate and interpret financial data.

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      • Understand how internal communication takes place within organizations.
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      • Use costing methods to make informed organizational decisions.

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      This unit aims to help learners develop their own personal leadership and management skills in the context of the creation and achievement of organizational vision and strategic direction.

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      • Understand how knowledge and skills in leadership and strategic management support the creation and achievement of organizational vision and strategy.
      • Understand how to develop and communicate organizational vision
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      This unit aims to help learners develop an understanding of how organizational behaviour, structure, culture, motivation, creativity, and leadership impact an organization’s effectiveness and efficiency.

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      • Understand leadership behaviour theory and practice
      • Understand how organizations can improve employee effectiveness to respond to business opportunities
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      This unit enables learners to develop knowledge and understanding of marketing at a strategic level and how this is applied in practice including developing a marketing strategy.

      Learning Outcomes

      • Understand the principles of strategic marketing.
      • Understand how to carry out a strategic marketing analysis
      • Understand the role of customer behaviour in marketing strategies
      • Understand how to develop an implementable strategic marketing plan
      • Understand how to create a marketing strategy to meet business objectives

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      The unit will enable learners to explore the changing international business environment and develop knowledge and understanding of how organizations respond.

      Learning Outcomes

      • Be able to analyze the international business environment
      • Understand the impact of globalization and international trade
      • Understand the international markets in which businesses operate

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      This unit aims to develop the knowledge, understanding, and skills required to carry out research to meet the needs of strategic business management.

      Learning Outcomes

      • Be able to formulate a research proposal relating to strategic business development.
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      Unit Objectives

      The aim of this unit is to develop a critical understanding of managing operations and information systems within projects.

      The interrelationships within functional areas will be examined, and the influence of contemporary factors. Learners will explore organisational strategy in relation to the capacity to plan for products and consider the value of inventory management using information systems and inventory schedules.

      Learning Outcomes

      • Understand the role of operations management within a business.
      • Understand strategic capacity planning for products and services.
      • Understand requirements for effective inventory management using information systems.
      • Understand scheduling operations for project managers.
      • Understand systems for project quality management.

      Unit Objectives

      The aim of this unit is to equip learners with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to lead and manage transformational change within complex organizational environments.

      Learners will critically evaluate and synthesize theories of consumer behavior, innovation, entrepreneurship, human resource management, organizational behavior, leadership, and digital transformation.

      Through a combination of theoretical exploration and practical application, learners will develop innovative strategies that drive business performance, foster positive organizational cultures, and ensure sustainable competitive advantage.

      The unit will also focus on designing and implementing strategic information systems and digital transformation plans that enhance operational efficiency and organizational resilience in the face of dynamic market conditions.

      Learning Outcomes

      • Critically evaluate consumer behaviour theories and synthesize marketing strategies that drive business performance across diverse contexts. (Marketing Strategy and Consumer Behavior)
      • Formulate and justify innovative entrepreneurial strategies by applying ad advanced models of of innovation and entrepreneurship to sustain competitive business growth. (Innovation and Entrepreneurship)
      • Critically and recommend human resource management practices and organizational behavior strategies that foster talent management and positive organizational culture in complex environments. Innovation and Entrepreneurship)
      • Design and implement leadership and change management frameworks tailored to specific organizational contexts, ensuring effective transitions and successful change initiatives. (Leadership and Change Management)
      • Develop and Critique strategic information systems and digital transformation plans that enhance business innovation, operational efficiency, and overall organizational performance. (Strategic Information Systems and Digital Transformation)

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        To equip managers with a comprehensive understanding of Software Process Improvement (SPI) principles and practices, enabling them to effectively lead and implement SPI initiatives within their organizations.

        The Module provides foundational knowledge, practical tools, and strategic insights necessary for enhancing software quality, optimizing development processes, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in software projects.

        Through a focus on both individual and team-based approaches, it prepares managers to drive successful SPI efforts that align with organizational goals and deliver measurable improvements in performance and outcomes.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand and Apply Software Process Improvement (SPI) Concepts
        • Evaluate and Implement Key Processes
        • Develop and Lead High-Performance Teams
        • Execute and Assess Process Improvement Initiatives

        Unit Objectives

        • Identify legal and regulatory requirements that impact the area of responsibility.
        • Recognize ethical and social requirements relevant to the organizational context.
        • Develop policies to meet legal, regulatory, ethical, and social obligations for your area of responsibility.
        • Communicate policies to stakeholders.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Analyze and assess the effectiveness of current quality management systems.
        • Design a strategy for evaluating and improving quality systems.
        • Define roles and responsibilities related to quality standards for key stakeholders.
        • Successfully implement a quality management system in their organization.
        • Conduct ongoing monitoring and evaluation of quality performance to identify areas for continuous improvement.

        Unit Objectives

        The aim of this unit is to develop learners’ understanding of supply chain and operations management, including its scope, impact and importance as well as the strategic decisions that need to be made in today’s world of global supply and global markets, taking into account the major competitive drivers. The unit discusses supply chain and operations management practices and approaches in a range of contexts.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand key operations and supply chain management concepts, theories, and strategies.
        • Understand performance measurement approaches and techniques.

        Unit Objectives

        The unit focuses on the strategic, value-adding role of logistics in supply networks. It aims to impart learners with a thorough understanding of key theoretical and operational aspects of managing logistics, specifically transportation, storage/warehousing, and packaging. The related considerations for business competitiveness and operational efficiency are emphasized as is the interdependency between operational, technological, and regulatory aspects.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand key concepts and issues in logistics.
        • Understand the different modes of transport and their underlying operational and economic characteristics.
        • Understand the regulatory aspects procedures and practices with international processes.
        • Understand strategic and operational aspects of warehouse management.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to develop learners’ a practical introduction to digital and social media technologies (such as Twitter, Facebook, connected devices – the internet of things and affiliate networks) and their application within marketing. The module examines the key characteristics of digital and social media, and identifies the theoretical underpinnings such as issues of trust and customer engagement together with trends and usage patterns to provide a framework through which to understand and evaluate them. In addition, the module examines the legal and ethical considerations that marketing in a digital world raises. This module teaches you a range of state-of-the-art tools and theories of how to use social media effectively to achieve your branding and communication goals. Students will learn the scientific and strategic approach to marketing with hands-on implementation of online marketing and social media strategies.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand the role of information technology and social media in digital marketing.
        • Understand the changing dynamics of an organisation’s environment and its impacts.
        • Recommend resource-led innovative approaches using digital marketing tools to contemporary digital marketing challenges
        • Understand how to develop digital strategies and an integrated social media campaign for a strategic relationship with the customers.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to develop learners’ understanding of a theoretical and practical understanding of processes and factors that influence the consumer behaviour of individuals and organisations. By learning about how consumers make decisions, what motivates them, and how contexts and practices influence consumption, you will be able to strategically apply these insights to the creation of customer value and learn how to critique and challenge current marketing practices and consumer communications. The learners will be able to evaluate how consumer research has been undertaken and develop their intellectual and analytical capabilities vis-à-vis interpreting cultural and societal trends, parallel to psychological consumer processes, to inform marketing decision-making.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand the fundamental psychological, sociological, structural, and cultural factors that influence buying behaviour.
        • Understand the relevance of particular theories, Factors, models, and concepts related to consumer behaviour.
        • Understanding the marketing research process and customer insight in different contexts including digital contexts.
        • Understand the process of managing customer experience, customer relationship management, and market communication.

        Unit Objectives

        To equip students with theoretical knowledge in carrying out accounting and finance research.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Explain the rationale, discuss the usage, and carry out basic computational exercises for each of the topics covered.
        • Explain the underlying assumptions and imitations in the use of theories and approaches in the research of accounting and finance issues.
        • Adopt and use relevant theory, approach, methodology, and analytical techniques to carry out accounting or finance research, analyze the data, and evaluate and synthesise the results obtained to explain the phenomenon being studied or the issue being discussed.

        Unit Objectives

        In this unit, Learners will delve into advanced concepts in global finance, equipping themselves with a diverse array of theoretical frameworks and sophisticated financial tools.

        They will gain insights into prevailing trends in the global economy and develop the ability to critically analyze policy responses to these trends.

        Additionally, the unit will impart advanced techniques in global finance,

        empowering learners to apply these techniques effectively in addressing complex global financial challenges. Learning Outcomes, Assessment Criteria, and Indicative Contents

        Learning Outcomes

        • Recall the concept of globalization.
        • Recognize the impact of the global business environment on national and multinational business organizations.
        • Identify different types of risks.
        • Be able to apply techniques to manage global risk.
        • Analyze the Financial Assets (Instruments)
        • Evaluate the global financial forces that determine the value of major currencies and how to hedge against fluctuations in currency values.

        Unit Objectives

        This Unit’s goal is to deepen students’ grasp of advanced strategic financial management concepts and how to apply them in challenging corporate settings.

        The ability of the learners to evaluate financial information,

        make wise financial decisions and efficiently manage financial resources to maximize shareholder value will be improved. The Unit will contain the following:

        • Advanced Strategic Analysis
        • Financial Decision-Making under Uncertainty
        • Strategic Financial Planning and Forecasting
        • Behavioral Finance
        • Ethical Considerations in Financial Decision Making
        • Financial Technology (FinTech) and Digital Transformation
        • Financial Distress and Restructuring.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Critically evaluate Enterprise, Entrepreneurship, and the characteristics of the entrepreneur.
        • Critically evaluate the requirements for the early development of an enterprise.
        • Analyse the role of idea generation within an enterprise.
        • Critically assess success factors for entrepreneurship. Examine the key theories of innovation, disruptive entrepreneurship, and patterns of adoption of innovation and disruptors.
        • Justify the need for and content of a business plan and pitch.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to cultivate an advanced understanding among students regarding the intricate nuances of New Business venture concepts and their application within complex corporate environments.

        It seeks to facilitate learners’ capacity to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize Entrepreneurship and Innovation concepts, fostering a high level of cognitive engagement and mastery.

        The unit will contain the following:

        • Entrepreneurial Process
        • Components for a Successful New Business
        • Evaluating New Opportunity
        • The Business Plan
        • Market Orientation
        • New Venture Team
        • Venture Capital
        • Managing Growth

        Learning Outcomes

        • Develop a potential business venture through various business models
        • Develop new business ventures successfully through effective business planning, prudent management systems, business performance evaluation, and monitoring process.
        • Evaluate the personal, sociological, organizational, environment, innovation, implementation, and growth.
        • Demonstrate comprehensive comprehension and critical evaluation of the entire entrepreneurial process, encompassing its intricacies, challenges, and strategic implications
        • Evaluate the importance of opportunity in entrepreneurship
        • Develop a conceptual relationship between entrepreneurs and the management team

        Unit Objectives

        The aim of the unit is to enable the student to understand the core concepts of procurement along with the importance of identifying and managing risks related to procurement and contract management.

        The learners will also develop a critical understanding of various legislative frameworks important for procurement and consider frameworks for risk assessment in the procurement context.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand the core concepts of procurement and contract management.
        • Be able to critically evaluate the procurement operating environment and legislation.
        • Understand the management of procurement operations.
        • Understand the risk management process in procurement and contract management.

        Unit Objectives

        The unit aims to provide learners with in-depth knowledge about planning processes across all key aspects of supply chain management.

        The relevance of each of the planning processes, the associated information requirements, and modelling and analytic techniques are covered.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Critically evaluate and synthesize contemporary supply chain planning models and approaches, identifying their strengths and limitations in diverse business contexts.
        • Integrate and assess advanced planning, scheduling, and control methodologies within complex business operations to enhance operational efficiency.
        • Leverage sophisticated data analytics techniques to drive strategic decision-making and optimize overall supply chain performance.
        • Develop and critique comprehensive supply chain strategies, assessing their long-term impact on organizational sustainability and competitive advantage.
        • Design and implement complex optimization models to improve supply chain efficiency, responsiveness, and adaptability to changing market conditions.
        • Apply advanced forecasting and predictive analytics methods to accurately anticipate demand fluctuations and optimize inventory management.
        • Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks within the supply chain using advanced risk management frameworks and data-driven strategies.

        Unit Objectives

        The aim of “International Business Ethics and Sustainability” unit is to develop a deep understanding of ethical principles and sustainability practices in the context of international business.

        This unit will equip students with the ability to critically evaluate ethical dilemmas and sustainability challenges that global businesses face and to develop strategies that integrate ethical and sustainable practices into business operations and decision-making processes.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Critically evaluate major ethical theories and frameworks and their application to international business contexts.
        • Analyze complex ethical dilemmas faced by international businesses and propose well-reasoned solutions.
        • Develop comprehensive strategies that promote sustainability within international business operations, considering economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
        • Assess the impact of corporate social responsibility initiatives on global business practices and stakeholder relationships.
        • Create and defend ethical business policies that address issues such as labour rights, environmental sustainability, and fair trade in a global context.
        • Evaluate the effectiveness of global sustainability standards and certifications in promoting ethical business practices.
        • Critique real-world case studies of international businesses, identifying best practices and areas for improvement in ethical and sustainable practices.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to develop learners’ understanding of the effects of legislation, ethics, and global integration on decisions, corporate governance, policies, processes, and activities undertaken by organizations.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Be able to critically discuss the impacts of globalisation on organisations.
        • Be able to critically discuss the sociocultural, ethical, and moral issues that affect global organisations.
        • Be able to analyse the role of corporate governance in global organisations
        • Be able to critically discuss International Consumer Protection laws.
        • Be able to critically analyse regulations related to online trading

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to develop learners’ understanding of the effects of legislation, ethics, and global integration on decisions, corporate governance, policies, processes, and activities undertaken by organizations.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Be able to critically discuss the impacts of globalisation on organisations.
        • Be able to critically discuss the sociocultural, ethical, and moral issues that affect global organisations.
        • Be able to analyse the role of corporate governance in global organisations
        • Be able to critically discuss International Consumer Protection laws.
        • Be able to critically analyse regulations related to online trading

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to fulfil the learner’s ability to analyze and evaluate talent management’s different models.

        The talent management process begins with the meticulous delineation of appropriate talent profiles tailored to meet the specific needs of the organization.

        It encompasses the foundational elements employed by organizations to oversee the performance of individuals, teams, and the organization as a whole.

        Central to this exploration is an examination of the respective roles played by HR and line management within the realm of talent management. Furthermore, the unit delves into the complexities surrounding talent retention, investigating prevalent issues and proposing viable solutions.

        Through a comprehensive approach, learners will gain insight into the various dimensions of talent management, ranging from the cultivation of core competencies to the formulation and execution of performance management systems, as well as the identification, assessment, and development of talent.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Critically analyze the theoretical foundations of strategic quality management and their historical context.
        • Design Strategic Quality and Systems Management and utilize advanced tools and techniques for continuous improvement in a strategic quality context.
        • Implementing Strategic Quality and Systems Management aligned with an organization’s overall business strategy.
        • Develop changing initiatives for successful integration of strategic quality and systems management within organizations.
        • Evaluate the impact of strategic quality management on organizational performance, competitiveness, and customer satisfaction.

        Unit Objectives

        The critical examination of strategic risk management is about the setting and continuous improvement of performance standards; the establishment and maintenance of an effective system of risk management; all aspects of risk management are considered, including, but not limited to, health and safety, environmental and security; planning and alignment of risk objectives with other corporate strategy.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Analyze the strategic implications of corporate risk management.
        • Analyze integrative risk management perspectives.
        • Develop full strategic risk analyses.
        • Analyze and evaluate market-related business in corporate risk management.
        • Apply Risk Governance to the entire organization’s sectors

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to provide learners with an understanding of the core concepts and tools used to build modern risk analysis models.

        It introduces learners to the foundations of risk analysis.

        These core concepts are then combined to explore several modern risk analysis modelling techniques.

        This unit will provide learners with the skills needed to apply these techniques in real-life situations.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand healthcare policy formation in an international context.
        • Understand the social and cultural context of healthcare.
        • Critically analyze the concept of operational risk and the Basel II model.
        • Implement & Analyze the Professional Risk Management models, and Asses and Mitigate the Risks effectively in complex business environments.
        • Develop a professional risk management model according to an organizational context
        • Application: Lesson Learned, ECOLOGICAL RISK ASSESSMENT
        • Understand healthcare provisioning.
        • Understand the role of public health and health promotion in the provision of healthcare services.
        • Understand contemporary issues in health and social care.

        Unit Objectives

        The aim of this unit is to provide learners with the advanced knowledge and strategic skills necessary to drive comprehensive organizational improvement.

        Learners will critically analyze and synthesize key concepts in organizational strategy, financial management, project management, and risk management.

        By integrating these concepts, learners will develop and implement strategies that enhance competitive advantage, operational excellence, and organizational resilience.

        The unit emphasizes the application of advanced strategic models and best practices in various business contexts, ensuring that learners are equipped to make informed decisions that contribute to long-term business success and sustainability.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Develop a critical understanding of how organizational strategy shapes and drives competitive advantage in various business contexts. (Organizational Strategy and Planning)
        • Integrate the concepts of financial management and performance measurement, understanding their roles in organizational success. (Financial and Performance Management)
        • Strategize project management techniques and their role in achieving operational excellence. (Project Management and Operational Excellence)
        • Develop a critical understanding of risk management and business continuity planning, ensuring organizational resilience. (Risk Management and Business Continuity)

        Unit Objectives

        The aim of studying Entrepreneurial Consulting Projects is to cultivate advanced analytical and logical capabilities, enabling individuals to adeptly address emergent economic and employment challenges.

        This unit aims to foster a culture of creativity and problem-solving, culminating in the generation of innovative products and services through the application of diverse strategic approaches.

        It delves into the theoretical foundations and practical applications of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the creation and expansion of global ventures.

        Additionally, the course scrutinizes the factors driving innovation and cultivates the managerial skills necessary to assess opportunities and foster entrepreneurship and innovation effectively.

        Through critical analysis, synthesis, and empirical investigation, students will develop expertise in entrepreneurial theory and practice, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the fields of entrepreneurship and innovation.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Conceptualizing the role of the entrepreneur
        • Develop a business plan: critically review and evaluate existing entrepreneurial business plans.
        • Evaluate the small business’s competitive edge in the marketplace using bootstrap marketing strategies.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to ensure that students have a sound understanding of assurance in practice. The unit begins with a review of the legal and regulatory environment, and the need to comply with appropriate practice management techniques. Students will have the opportunity to consider the audit of financial statements, including planning, evidence, and review.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand the regulatory environment and professional and ethical considerations
        • Understand issues and developments in audit and assurance
        • Be able to plan and conduct an audit

        Unit Objectives

        Learners will be well-equipped to become leaders and innovators in quality management. They will possess the knowledge, research skills, and critical thinking abilities to address real-world challenges in organizational quality and contribute significantly to the advancement of quality management theory and practice.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Critically analyze the theoretical foundations of principles and concepts of quality management systems and their role in organizational success.
        • Develop quality management systems: quality management tools and techniques to identify, analyze, and improve processes within an organization.
        • Designing quality management systems: Quality Leadership and Change Management.
        • Transforming the organizational culture to be a customer-centric organization while designing quality management systems.
        • Develop an Integrated integrated communication plan: A well-crafted communication plan fosters understanding, builds trust, and ultimately leads to a smooth transition and seamless adoption of the new quality system.
        • Implementing quality management systems: quality planning, assurance, and control measures to ensure consistent quality throughout the product or service lifecycle.
        • Implementing quality management systems: Integrate quality management with strategic planning and decision-making within the organizational culture to achieve business sustainability and long-term success.

        Unit Objectives

        Students will understand that entrepreneurship is a key area of business. It applies to small sole traders and large corporations. The link with innovation is symbiotic and the focus of this unit on both areas highlights how enterprises grow and the benefits and risks of innovation.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Critically evaluate Enterprise, Entrepreneurship, and the characteristics of the entrepreneur.
        • Critically evaluate the requirements for the early development of an enterprise.
        • Analyse the role of idea generation within an enterprise.
        • Critically assess success factors for entrepreneurship. Examine the key theories of innovation, disruptive entrepreneurship, and patterns of adoption of innovation and disruptors.
        • Justify the need for and content of a business plan and pitch.

        Unit Objectives

        The unit aims to provide learners with in-depth knowledge about planning processes across all key aspects of supply chain management.

        The relevance of each of the planning processes, the associated information requirements, and modelling and analytic techniques are covered.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Critically evaluate and synthesize contemporary supply chain planning models and approaches, identifying their strengths and limitations in diverse business contexts.
        • Integrate and assess advanced planning, scheduling, and control methodologies within complex business operations to enhance operational efficiency.
        • Leverage sophisticated data analytics techniques to drive strategic decision-making and optimize overall supply chain performance.
        • Develop and critique comprehensive supply chain strategies, assessing their long-term impact on organizational sustainability and competitive advantage.
        • Design and implement complex optimization models to improve supply chain efficiency, responsiveness, and adaptability to changing market conditions.
        • Apply advanced forecasting and predictive analytics methods to accurately anticipate demand fluctuations and optimize inventory management.
        • Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks within the supply chain using advanced risk management frameworks and data-driven strategies.

        Unit Objectives

        To enable learners to understand the main elements that influence the performance of employees at all levels within an organization and how such elements can be managed constructively. Further to provide learners with understanding to devise and implement appropriate HR practices and strategies that relate to Performance Management.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Explain and evaluate the linkages between employee performance, HR practices, and organizational performance
        • Critically evaluate the barriers and blockages preventing expected standards of performance from being met
        • Critically evaluate the key HR and employment practices influencing employee

        Unit Objectives

        The primary aim of this unit is to equip managers with the knowledge, skills, and strategic insights necessary to effectively lead and manage digital transformation initiatives within their organizations.

        This Major will provide a comprehensive understanding of the key concepts, tools, and methodologies that drive successful digital transformations, ensuring managers can harness digital technologies to create Value, and competitive advantages and drive business growth.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand and Apply Key Concepts of Digital Transformation
        • Develop and Lead Digital Transformation
        • Analyze and Utilize Emerging Technologies

        Unit Objectives

        The unit will equip you with the knowledge and understanding of the sources and use of finance in organizations and how to evaluate and interpret financial data.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand how internal communication takes place within organizations.
        • Access an organization’s financial performance.
        • Use costing methods to make informed organizational decisions.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit will enable learners to develop knowledge and understanding of the importance of corporate communications and the link with corporate objectives. Learners will have the opportunity to develop skills in auditing corporate communications and planning a corporate communication strategy.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand the importance of corporate communications.
        • Be able to plan corporate communications audits.
        • Understand the purpose and impact of a corporate communications strategy.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to help learners develop their own personal leadership and management skills in the context of the creation and achievement of organizational vision and strategic direction.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand how knowledge and skills in leadership and strategic management support the creation and achievement of organizational vision and strategy.
        • Understand how to develop and communicate organizational vision
        • Be able to manage the development of own personal knowledge and skills in leadership and strategic management to support the achievement of personal and organizational vision and strategy
        • Be able to reflect on the benefits of personal development in the achievement of personal growth and organizational vision and strategy

        Unit Objectives

        To explore the international context for healthcare policy and organisation of healthcare. To understand contemporary issues and promotion of public health. Learners should understand the political, social, and cultural issues that help to determine healthcare policy and be able to critically assess the policies and practices in one specific context.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand healthcare policy formation in an international context.
        • Understand the social and cultural context of healthcare.
        • Understand healthcare provisioning.
        • Understand the role of public health and health promotion in the provision of healthcare services.
        • Understand contemporary issues in health and social care.

        Unit Objectives

        This module aims to enable learners to develop the knowledge and understanding required to manage and deliver excellent customer service.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand how to identify and meets stakeholder needs when managing quality and service delivery.
        • understand how to Manage quality and service delivery.
        • understand how to embed quality improvement and service delivery.

        Unit Objectives

        The aim of this unit is to develop learners’ understanding, knowledge, and skills of sustainable operations management, including key elements of sustainability and their importance to businesses, the business drivers and barriers affecting the move towards sustainability, the different practices across the supply chain that can be worked upon to improve sustainability, as well as the performance measures and the business impact of sustainability.

        A variety of different sectors are explored.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Critically analyze and synthesize sustainable operations management strategies, evaluating their effectiveness in addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges in diverse organizational contexts.
        • Integrate advanced sustainability principles and practices into operations management frameworks, assessing their impact on resource efficiency, waste reduction, and carbon footprint mitigation.
        • Leverage innovative technologies and data-driven approaches to optimize sustainable operations, balancing environmental stewardship with operational performance objectives.
        • Develop comprehensive sustainability policies and initiatives, assessing their long-term impact on organizational sustainability and competitive advantage.
        • Design and implement complex optimization models to improve supply chain efficiency, responsiveness, and adaptability to changing market conditions.
        • Apply advanced forecasting and predictive analytics methods to accurately anticipate demand fluctuations and optimize inventory management.

        Unit Objectives

        Identify legal and regulatory requirements that impact the area of responsibility.

        Recognize ethical and social requirements relevant to the organizational context.

        Develop policies that address legal, regulatory, ethical, and social obligations.

        Effectively communicate these policies to stakeholders to ensure understanding and compliance.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Identify and evaluate the legal and regulatory requirements applicable to their role.
        • Analyze ethical and social considerations that influence decision-making in their area.
        • Create comprehensive policies that meet legal, regulatory, ethical, and social requirements.
        • Communicate policies clearly to stakeholders and facilitate discussions to address any concerns.

        Unit Objectives

        • Evaluate existing quality management systems and standards within the organization.
        • Develop a strategic approach to assess and enhance quality systems.
        • Establish clear responsibilities for stakeholders in maintaining quality standards.
        • Implement a comprehensive quality management system tailored to organizational needs.
        • Monitor and evaluate quality performance to promote continuous improvement.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Analyze and assess the effectiveness of current quality management systems.
        • Design a strategy for evaluating and improving quality systems.
        • Define roles and responsibilities related to quality standards for key stakeholders.
        • Successfully implement a quality management system in their organization.
        • Conduct ongoing monitoring and evaluation of quality performance to identify areas for continuous improvement.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to foster a nuanced comprehension of how brands facilitate companies in achieving differentiation.

        Companies must establish a distinctive presence in the marketplace by implementing effective and innovative brand management strategies.

        Brand management transcends departmental boundaries, serving as an organizational-wide initiative.

        This course aims to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application, enabling learners to translate theoretical concepts into actionable strategies and tactics that drive brand success in dynamic market environments.

        Through interdisciplinary exploration and experiential learning, learners will develop the analytical skills and strategic acumen necessary to navigate complex brand challenges and capitalize on opportunities for sustainable competitive advantage.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Evaluate and refine brand management strategies by applying sophisticated analytical skills.
        • Develop positioning and a frame of reference building.
        • Evaluate the brand positioning and customer excellence through the CBBE approach.
        • Develop the brand positioning strategy.
        • Develop Brand Equity and Build up strong brand practices.
        • Evaluate brand elements and design brand architecture strategies to build brand equity.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to provide learners with an understanding of the core concepts and tools used to build modern risk analysis models.

        It introduces learners to the foundations of risk analysis.

        These core concepts are then combined to explore several modern risk analysis modelling techniques.

        This unit will provide learners with the skills needed to apply these techniques in real-life situations

        Learning Outcomes

        • Critically analyze the concept of operational risk and the Basel II model.
        • Implement & professional risk management models; assess and mitigate the risks effectively in complex business environments.
        • Develop a professional risk management model according to an organizational context
        • Application: Lesson Learned, ECOLOGICAL RISK ASSESSMENT.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to enable learners to critically analyze and synthesize contemporary issues in marketing, employing advanced theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence.

        This involves evaluating the complexities of modern marketing challenges, proposing innovative solutions, and contributing novel insights to the field through rigorous research and scholarly discourse.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Demonstrate a profound comprehension of the strategic implications of marketing within the broader contexts of corporate and business strategies.
        • This entails analyzing the intricate interplay between strategic marketing initiatives and organizational strategies, elucidating their synergies, tensions, and transformative potential through advanced conceptual frameworks and empirical research.
        • The emerging field of Neuromarketing and its profound implications for marketing strategies and tactics.
        • This involves critically evaluating the latest trends, theories, and empirical research in Neuromarketing, discerning its impact on consumer behaviour, decision-making processes, and market outcomes.
        • Develop a sophisticated understanding of B2B marketing strategy and planning, emphasizing the cultivation of enduring, value-driven relationships with business customers.
        • This involves critically analyzing advanced concepts and theoretical frameworks in B2B marketing, synthesizing empirical evidence to inform strategic decision-making processes, and innovating approaches to foster sustained engagement and loyalty within complex business ecosystems.
        • Acquire a comprehensive grasp of the intricacies involved in conducting marketing research. This entails critically analyzing advanced methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and statistical techniques employed in marketing research design and execution.
        • Develop a conceptual framework of the diverse array of tools utilized in service marketing and the intricacies of designing effective service marketing activities.
        • Develop a conceptual framework of the diverse range of tools employed in customer experience (CX) management and the intricacies of designing optimal customer experiences and customer journeys.

        Unit Objectives

        To provide learners with the ability to understand and analyze the impact of main internal and external environmental forces on organisational strategy and management of people. Also enables the learner to analyse a range of organisational contexts and how they develop ways to respond to such environmental forces and the role of HR professionals in contributing to it.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Critically evaluate the environment of modern organizations and the changing nature of contemporary HRM.
        • Critically evaluate the impact of changes to the structure and nature of industry, employment law, and working patterns on HRM.
        • Explain the process of strategic management and evaluate the role of HR professionals in contributing to it.
        • Evaluate the application of HR practices in a range of organisational contexts.

        Unit Objectives

        The critical examination of strategic risk management about the setting and continuous improvement of performance standards; the establishment and maintenance of an effective system of risk management; all aspects of risk management are considered, including, but not limited to, health and safety, environmental and security; planning and alignment of risk objectives with other corporate strategy.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Analyze the strategic implications of corporate risk management.
        • Analyze integrative risk management perspectives.
        • Develop full strategic risk analyses.
        • Analyze and evaluate market-related business in corporate risk management
        • Apply Risk Governance to the entire organization’s sectors

        Unit Objectives

        To raise business risk awareness and develop knowledge and understanding in the assessment, monitoring, and control of business risks.

        To enable the learner to develop an appreciation of the implications of business risks.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand the risk management function in business.
        • Understand how business risk is assessed and managed.
        • Understand the effects of business risks and how they can be managed.
        • Understand approaches to crisis management and business continuity planning.

        Unit Objectives

        To understand the process of identifying appropriate and feasible projects, and to be able to initiate and start a project. To be able to manage, monitor, and control a project, including assessing, managing, and controlling project risks and issues, project and team management, and change management.

        To be able to evaluate the success or failure of a project.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Be able to analyse business objectives to identify feasible projects.
        • Be able to design systems and plans for initiating managing and controlling projects.
        • Be able to organise and manage a project.
        • Be able to monitor and control the progress of projects.
        • Be able to review, evaluate, and close out a project.

        Unit Objectives

        This unit aims to help learners acquire knowledge and understanding of human resource management strategy and its impact on the efficiency of an organization.

        Learning Outcomes

        • Understand the factors affecting human resource management strategies in organizations.
        • Understand how strategic human resource management contributes to the achievement of the strategic plans of organizations.
        • Understand how to prepare human resource management strategies for organizations.
        • Be able to develop a human resource management strategy for an organization.
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