Critically analyse the different theories of management and leadership styles and apply them in answering the different parts of the assessment. Demonstrate that you fully understand the different concept of SHRM, different Management and Leadership issues and the context within which they occur.

/in /by

Strategic hrm

The assessment for this module will require students to demonstrate their knowledge of human resource management from a strategic point of view. Students will also be expected to critically analyse the different theories of management and leadership styles and apply them in answering the different parts of the assessment. Through the assessment, students also need to demonstrate that they can suggest appropriate recommendations in a business context through the given scenario. The assessment has been designed so that students are able to demonstrate that they fully understand the different concept of SHRM, different Management and Leadership issues and the context within which they occur. Students are required to undertake one component in the form of an individual report (5000 words [+/- 10%]) addressing the Learning Outcomes.

PLEASE NOTE
a) The assessment component carries 10% as an opportunity to demonstrate self-awareness evaluation in the form of a self-reflective statement which should be incorporated after your references section and does not contribute to the overall word count of the assessment.

b) The assessment component also carries 5% for your ability to demonstrate academic skills and competences in the crafting of your individual submission.

c) You are reminded to draw upon evidence and arguments presented from a range of relevant human resource management textbooks as well as academic and practitioner journals for the assessment.

Validate the use of theory and conceptual frameworks used in research. Describe what a conceptual and theoretical framework is. Once you have defined and described, then using the North Central University (NCU) library, locate four DBA NCU dissertations, each with a different theoretical framework or conceptual framework.

/in /by

To validate the use of theory and conceptual frameworks used in research

A conceptual framework is a student’s idea of how a particular problem will need to be studied. A conceptual framework describes the key points and topics that make up the research question. A theoretical framework is a blueprint that defines how the student will study a problem. It is based on a theory or a set of theories. The theory defines the scope of how the research question will be explored. Choosing a framework is like choosing a research topic. The process can be instant or complicated. There are a seemingly endless number of theories and conceptual frameworks to choose from. At its core, the framework must make sense for the topic. One might consider transformational leadership for a research topic that explores how leaders can increase employee retention. The same theory might not apply to how to market effectively. A reasonable first step in choosing a framework is to explore research papers and dissertations on similar topics. The literature review of dissertations will discuss the framework in detail, supporting frameworks, and contrasting ones. They can often show you a valid framework or at least serve as a guide to point you in the right direction. Be sure to review the attached resources carefully. You are expected to apply the information from these resources when you prepare your assignments.

For this assignment, you are asked to validate the use of theory and conceptual frameworks used in research. To complete this assignment, you will first describe what a conceptual and theoretical framework is. Once you have defined and described, then using the North Central University (NCU) library, locate four DBA NCU dissertations, each with a different theoretical framework or conceptual framework. Dedicate about half a page synopsis on each. Then, explain what the theory or concept is and why you think the selected theory was appropriate for the research problem/dissertation. To complete the assignment, locate one theory or conceptual framework on your own outside of these sources on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace. You can find it through scholarly web searches, dissertations, journal articles, etc. Explain the theory by indicating who came up with it, and how it has evolved. Being able to explain seminal work and evolution of a theory is used in the theoretical framework and literature review at the dissertation phase

Describe the strategy of the two companies in the Indian market by applying the analytical tools we covered on the module including Strategy Diamond model and a SWOT Analysis. Explore the various means of segmenting the customer base and identify the most effective way.

/in /by

Business Analysis and Consulting

Assessment 2: Business Project
Part 1: Introduction
You are given a business case study of Amazon and Alibaba, two companies that dominate eCommerce in their home countries and some foreign territories. To continue their growth paths and satisfy investors, both need to expand overseas. Because of its size, the Indian market looks attractive to both companies. Whilst Amazon and Alibaba have enjoyed great success in the Western world and in China respectively, the Indian market contains some specific and unique economic and social factors which could prove challenging. The case study explores these issues and examines whether Amazon or Alibaba is a better fit for India. The case study includes both numerical and non–numerical information.

Part II: Instructions
Drawing on the case study you are required to write a 2,000–word project in which you should demonstrate engagement with the concepts covered during the business
analysis part of the module and that you can make practical use of these concepts. You should also apply your own reasoned view of what you have been taught and that you can make your ideas clear in the way you present them in the project.

Content
Conduct a thorough review of the case study and use the tools and analytical frameworks covered in the business analysis part of the module to examine Amazon’s position relative to Alibaba in the Indian market and answer the following questions:
1. Describe the strategy of the two companies in the Indian market by applying the analytical tools we covered on the module including Strategy Diamond model and a SWOT Analysis
2. Explore the various means of segmenting the customer base and identify the most effective way.

What was Nadella’s diagnosis of the problems at Microsoft? Discuss Nadella’s approach to address the problems and reposition Microsoft? While drawing upon the case study and secondary sources from the last quarter of 2019 – first quarter of 2021, how would you describe Nadella as a leader? How effective has Nadella been as Microsoft’s leader?

/in /by

Case Study – Satya Nadella at Microsoft: Instilling a growth mindset

Instructions: Assignment Brief

If you are unable to locate an organization, you can base your assignment on the following case study: (Read the case study – Satya Nadella at Microsoft).
Having read the case study, you will need to answer the following five questions:
1. What was Nadella’s diagnosis of the problems at Microsoft?
2. Discuss Nadella’s approach to address the problems and reposition Microsoft?
3. While drawing upon the case study and secondary sources from the last quarter of 2019 – first quarter of 2021, how would you describe Nadella as a leader? How effective has Nadella been as Microsoft’s leader?
4. While drawing upon the secondary sources from the last quarter of 2019 – first quarter of 202, discuss the challenges he has faced as a CEO and outline the challenges you expect he will face in the near-term horizon (next 12 months)?
5. What is the prevalent mindset in the organisation you most recently worked? What can you learn from Nadella about instilling a learning culture?

Critically evaluate the uses and limitations of the financial statements in relation to decision making. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the nature and purpose of the three major financial statements including accounting conventions that underpin these statements.

/in /by

Business Finance and Accounting

AIMS
• To provide understanding of the key roles played by financial managers and accountants in helping corporations make effective investment and financing decisions.
• To provide you with knowledge and understanding of finance and accountancy within the wider context of global corporations and their goals.
• To provide you with a supportive environment which enables you to become highly proficient at solving accounting and finance problems.
• To encourage you to acquire deep analytical skills which you can apply to real world finance decisions.
• To know what financial information is for and how it is controlled by government, the stock exchanges and other institutions.
• To give you an ability to understand current financial issues from a theoretical and an applied perspective.
• To give you the opportunity to understand the specialist skills accountants use that are relevant for the financial manager.

INTRODUCTION
Managers across the world depend upon a team of professionals to provide them with knowledge and specialised information. Key members of this team include the financial manager and the accountant. Understanding the framework of business finance and accounting principles means you develop skills and knowledge essential to becoming a skilled leader in the managerial marketplace. This course gives you the opportunity to explore business finance principles and conventions including understanding risk and return, financial statement analysis and the calculation of key metrics used daily by global corporations. These skills are key to engaging and following the justification for real investment and financial decision making put forward by your colleagues and business partners.

Programme Learning Outcomes
The Business Finance and Accounting course covers the following learning outcomes:
1.1 Understand the principles of investment and financing decisions that are made by financial managers and accountants and be able to apply these principles to practical problems.
1.2 Critically evaluate the uses and limitations of the financial statements in relation to decision making.
1.3 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the nature and purpose of the three major financial statements including accounting conventions that underpin these statements.
1.4 Be able to calculate future values and present values and understand the time value of money.
1.5 Demonstrate how to value bonds and stocks using applications.
1.6 Be able to use net present value to analyse key problems that involve competing real investment projects, using the concepts of risk, return and the opportunity cost of capital
1.7 Develop a reflective approach to an understanding of key concepts in finance through using personal development and career experiences to create a narrative.
1.8 Intellectual skills relating to;
a) Location, extraction and analysis of data from multiple sources, including acknowledging and referencing sources;
b) Numeracy, including the processing and analysis of financial and other numerical data and the appreciation of statistical methods;
c) Using contemporary information and communications technology for the acquisition, analysis and communication of information.
1.9 Communication, including the presentation of quantitative and qualitative information in a form appropriate to the intended audience.
1.10 An ability to understand current financial issues from a theoretical and an applied perspective.

STUDY HOURS
This is a 15 credit course which corresponds to 150 hours of guided learning time. Each course is made up of eight weeks of learning. Guided Online Directed Learning Online activities provided in your learning path. 80 Guided Independent Learning Self-directed, independent study which includes 70 research, reading learning materials, communicating
with your tutors and fellow students, and fulfilling assessment requirements.

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
You will carry out two assessments for this course, which will cover the learning materials you study. Along with your summative assessment submissions, you are requested to submit a Turnitin similarity report. This would ensure that the work that you have submitted is your own and that your writing complies with all academic conventions
requested at this level of study. Both assessments should be submitted by Friday 12 midday (UK time) in Week 8 of this course.

LEARNING OUTCOMES COVERED
Submission Requirements:
• A 2,000 word Analytical Report (+/-10%)
• A Turnitin Similarity Report
For the analytical project you are required to select two companies from the same sector that are listed on the FTSE 100. You may select any two companies from a sector of your choice. Your analytical project should outline the real investment goals of your selected companies and offer a summary analysis of their financial position through an examination of the financial statements. Using measures of corporate performance, effectively compare and contrast the two companies. You may also refer to other companies in the same sector when making your comparisons.

Key Specifications and Requirements
You may use any of the materials and tools introduced on the course but must:
• Discuss goals and real investment decisions of a corporation.
• Evaluate financial statements.
• Give evidence of knowledge on methods for measuring corporate performance.
• Include an interpretation of financial ratios.
• Analyse financial ratios and liquidity.
• Include an interpretation of the cost of capital.
• Include an interpretation of market value and book value.
• Present data in a clear and precise manner.
• Set your work out as a report with an abstract and titled sections.
• Ensure that you compare and contrast your findings, and show evidence of evaluation.
• Label any diagrams used (eg. Figure One), give the diagram a title and credit the source.
• Make use of graphs and charts to support your analysis.
• Use Harvard referencing appropriately and accurately.
• Write 2,000 words (+/-10% not including references).

Grading Criteria
Your analytical project assessment should display the following criteria:
• Your ability to source and use a variety of types of material.
• Your ability to analyse key financial information in a concise and clear manner.
• Your ability to compare and contrast and reach objective and impartial conclusions.

Identify and introduce the importance of management skills, as well as the key principles related to managing and developing people within the organisation. Discuss the value of understanding diversity and address key principles and concepts such as motivation, decision making and problem solving within the organisation.

/in /by

Effective Management Skills

As a member of Microsoft’s Learning and Development department, you have been asked to produce a 2000 word report on ‘Effective Management Skills’. This report should aim to provide valuable guidance to Microsoft’s managerial training programmes.

The overall purpose of the report will be to identify and introduce the importance of management skills, as well as the key principles related to managing and developing people within the organisation. Your report should also discuss the value of understanding diversity and address key principles and concepts such as motivation, decision making and problem solving within the organisation.

What could the management have done differently to ensure success from the beginning?

/in /by

Disneyland Paris: Financial Difficulties

Answer only the second question of the Case study uploaded, which is the following question:

What could the management have done differently to ensure success from the beginning?

 

How do Headspace and Calm differ within the mindfulness app market? What would be the positioning statements be for the two brands? How have their various marketing and product decisions reinforced or degraded their respective positioning?

/in /by

Headspace vs Calm

Respond to the questions below.

How do Headspace and Calm differ within the mindfulness app market? What would be the positioning statements be for the two brands? How have their various marketing and product decisions reinforced or degraded their respective positioning?

What are the pricing structures of the apps? What do you think they are trying to achieve, and are they successful?

What growth strategies do Headspace and Calm seem to be engaging in?

What do you think will be the biggest challenges for Headspace and Calm moving forward in terms of retention and growth?

Determine if there is the potential to employ a mixed methods approach. Explain how your degree path informs your research approach. Justify and construct a theoretical or conceptual framework for the research problem; this section must be clearly written to ensure that the reader is seeing the proposed research through your framework.

/in /by

Appraise the Merits of Using Qualitative Method

Continue with the CITI training. This week’s readings and activities were introspective: you had to evaluate how your choice of a degree path and your worldview will affect your research. Now you will appraise the merits of qualitative research designs.

Begin your paper with an overview of the value of qualitative research (1-2 cited paragraphs). Be sure to make the connection between the research problem and the qualitative approach.

Determine if there is the potential to employ a mixed methods approach (1-2 cited paragraphs).

Explain how your degree path informs your research approach (1-2 cited paragraphs).

Based on your discovery of your worldview, share your thoughts about how this will affect your research (1-2 cited paragraphs).

Justify and construct a theoretical or conceptual framework for the research problem; this section must be clearly written to ensure that the reader is seeing the proposed research through your framework.

Include a brief discussion on how your degree type affected your framework selection.

Apply the qualitative method to the research problem. Begin with a one-page introduction about the circumstances that led to the development of the problem; do not state the problem in this section. Establish the existence of your research problem using three to four scholarly articles published within the last five years.

/in /by

Apply the Qualitative Method and the Research Problem

The focus of this week’s assignment is on applying the qualitative method to the research problem. Begin with a one-page introduction about the circumstances that led to the development of the problem; do not state the problem in this section. Establish the existence of your research problem using three to four scholarly articles published within the last five years. Remember that the problem must have a business administration focus, and must relate to your degree specialization. Keep your research focus and problem simple for this assignment.

NOTE: this framework must be used for your assignment response. Use one sentence for each of the following:

Hook: An attention-grabbing statement that is supported by the literature.

Anchor: An evidence of the problem statement that includes a statistic and is supported by primary research.

A statement of the general business problem.

A statement of the specific business problem.

This script is helpful to (a) frame the problem, (b) validate that it exists with verifiable data, and (c) identify why and for whom the problem matters (Bakari 2018).

Next, rationalize the use of the qualitative method for your research inquiry. Explain the features. Give examples of the intended research outcomes. Formulate a purpose statement using the framework.

NOTE: this framework must be used for your assignment response.