Introduction to Business Strategy

• Definition and importance of business strategy

• Strategic management process
• Strategic planning vs. operational planning
• Setting organizational objectives and goals

External Analysis and Competitive Advantage

• Industry analysis and competitive forces
• Macroenvironmental factors (PESTEL analysis)
• Competitive positioning and value proposition
• Differentiation and cost leadership strategies

Internal Analysis and Resources

• Assessing internal strengths and weaknesses
• Core competencies and competitive advantage
• A resource-based view of the firm
• SWOT analysis and strategic fit
• Perform Stage-Gate

Strategic Options and Decision Making

• Growth strategies (market penetration, market development, product development,

diversification)

• Competitive strategies (low-cost, differentiation, focus)

• Mergers and acquisitions

• Blue ocean strategy and disruptive innovation

Strategic Planning and Implementation

• Strategy formulation and action planning

• Balanced scorecard and key performance indicators (KPIs)

• Strategic alignment and organizational culture

• Change management and overcoming resistance

Performance Monitoring and Evaluation

• Performance measurement and benchmarking

• Reviewing and adapting strategic plans

• Key success factors and critical issues

• Strategic agility and managing uncertainty

Collaboration and Communication

• Cross-functional collaboration and teamwork

• Effective communication strategies

• Building consensus and managing conflicts

• Leadership and stakeholder engagement

Strategic Leadership and Adaptability

• Leading strategic change

• Anticipating and responding to market shifts

• Innovation and continuous improvement

• Ethical considerations in strategic decision-making