1
MBS661
Global Business in the Asian Century
Unit Information and Learning Guide
TMA, 2017
This information should be read in conjunction with the online learning materials
which can be found on your MyUnits page.
Professor Xiaowen Tian
Murdoch School of Business and Governance
Tel: +618 93606599
Email: [email protected]
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© Published by Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, 2017.
This publication is copyright. Except as permitted by the Copyright Act no part of it may in
any form or by any electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or any other means be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or be broadcast or transmitted without the prior
written permission of the publisher.
This unit was originally written by Professor Xiaowen Tian, 10 March 2017
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CONTENTS
Unit Information
Information about the Unit 3-5
Contact details 6
How to study this Unit 7
Resources for the Unit 8-9
Study schedule 10-19
Assessment 20-25
Learning Guide
MODULE 1
Week/Session 1
Week/Session 2
Week/Session 3
MODULE 2
Week/Session 4
Week/Session 5
Week/Session 6
MODULE 3
Week/Session 7
Week/Session 8
Week/Session 9
COACHING
Week/Session 10
Week/Session 11
Week/Session 12
EXAM
Week/Session 13
Week/Session 14
GLOBAL BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT 26
Seminar1: Globalization and the Rise of Asia 27
Seminar2: Country Difference and the Myth of Asia 28
Seminar3: Cross-country Linkage and Regional Integration in the Asia Pacific 29
GLOBAL STRATEGIC THINKING AND MARKET ENTRY 30
Seminar4: Global Strategic Thinking 31
Seminar5: Market Entry and Strategic Alliances 32
Coaching1: International Business Plan Proposal 33
FUNCTIONAL MANAGEMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION 34
Seminar6: Global Marketing and R&D 35
Seminar7: Global Production and Logistics 36
Seminar8: Global Human Resource Management 37
INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS PLAN REPORT 38
Coaching2: International Business Plan Report 39
Coaching3: International Business Plan Report 40
Coaching4: International Business Plan Report 41
Study Break 42
Exam Week 42
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UNIT INFORMATION
Information about the Unit
Welcome to MBS661 Global Business in the Asian Century
Unit description
This Unit addresses key issues about managing a global business in the 21st century –
often called the Asian century. It examines accelerated globalization and the rise of
Asia, and discusses how managers make decisions on firm strategy, market entry,
alliances, marketing, R&D, production, supply chain management, and human resource
management in the context of the changing global business environment. The unit
places you in the role of decision makers, aiming to develop your ability to innovatively
apply theories to resolving problems in challenging international business situations.
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites to undertaking this Unit
Aims of the Unit
The broad aims of this Unit are to
1. Provide students with a sound knowledge about the changing global business
environment in the Asian century;
2. Equip students with practical frameworks by which major business issues can be
analysed in complex international contexts;
3. Provide students with opportunities to apply learnt knowledge and skills to analysing
problems executives face in managing a global business in the Asia Pacific and
beyond. 5
Learning outcomes
Graduate attributes
This unit will contribute to the development of the following Graduate attributes
1. Critical and creative thinking- Graduates have developed the ability and skills to
acquire knowledge in their discipline and critically evaluate, integrate and apply the
knowledge.
2. Communication - Graduates have developed the ability and skills to effectively
communicate with people from different cultural backgrounds.
3. Global Perspective – Graduates have developed the ability and skills to address
business issues from a global perspective, and relate the issues to developments in the
Asia-Pacific region.
4. Ethics - Graduates are aware of ethical standards and able to develop strategies to
innovatively address ethical issues in their discipline.
What you need to know
Generic information which students need to know is available at What you need to know web
page: http://our.murdoch.edu.au/Educational-technologies/What-you-need-to-know/.The
information includes
Links to the Assessment Policy
A description of Academic Integrity
Links to information about examination; Non-discriminatory language;
Student Appeal; Student complaints; Conscientious objection and assessment
policy
Determination of grades from components/marks
Information for equity student
Unit Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the Unit you should be able to:
Linkage to
Course (MBA)
Learning
Outcomes
ULO.1. Identify, describe, and evaluate changes in the global business environment in the Asian
century, and the impact of the changes on business operations
[K] 1
ULO.2. Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to analysis of the
opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global business in Asia and beyond
[S-A] 2,12
ULO.3. Analyse and develop effective approaches to innovatively resolving problems in challenging
international business situations
[S-A] 2, 5
ULO.4. Generate new ideas for decision-making that benefits both the company and the society in an
international context
[K] 4; [S-A] 3 6
Contact details
Unit coordinator
Professor Xiaowen Tian - Bio Note: After obtaining my PhD from the
Australian National University, I worked and taught at National University
of Singapore, University of Nottingham (UK), and Bond University. I am
currently Professor of Management at Murdoch University. My teaching
and research interests are in the area of Global Business Management with
a focus on Asia. I have published articles in such journals as Journal of
International Business Studies, Journal of World Business, and
Organizational Dynamics in addition to four books. My book, titled
“Managing International Business in China”, was published by Cambridge
University Press, and will be used as an additional reading for this unit.
Email: [email protected]
Contact: Please direct all questions for the Unit coordinator through your local teaching
Affiliate
Administrative contact details
School of Business and Governance
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +61 8 9360 6861
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How to study the unit
Learning approach
The approach to learning in the Unit is integrative and interactive. The structured in-
class activities will be offered through teaching sessions consisting of lecture, case
study, workshop, presentation, and video. The self-directed learning tasks will involve
reading, group discussion, and a major International Business Plan Competition
project.
Contact time
This is a 6 credit point Unit. There are eight sessions with 32 face-to-face teaching
hours in total. In addition, there are four sessions with 16 face-to-face coaching hours
in total. In the coaching sessions, students are required to meet with the local
instructor to discuss their international business plan in teams.
Time commitment
For a 6 credit point Unit, it is expected that you spend in total 300 hours over the full
teaching period of the Unit.
Attendance
All students will be required to attend classes and to prepare for each class. This will
require reading of the specific chapters in the text and other materials, analysis of case
studies, and preparation for presentation. Students will be encouraged to develop and
express their own ideas and to articulate an original and independent view of
problems and cases. Unavoidable class absences should be discussed with the local
instructor in advance.
Small group and interactive teaching and learning activities
There are some small group and interactive teaching and learning activities in the
Unit, including team-based project and case study discussion.
Unit changes in response to student feedback
Students are encouraged to provide feedback to the instructor on any aspect of the
course with a view to enabling the instructor to improve the provision of the learning 8
Resources for the unit
Essential textbook
Hill, Charles W. et al. 2016. International Business: Asia Global Edition
McGraw-Hill. (2nd edition). ISBN- 9781259011818.
Other readings
BCG. 2012. Imagining Australia in the Asia century. http://ict-industry-
reports.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2013/05/2012-Imagining-Australia-in-
the-Asian-Century-BCG-Sept-2012.pdf
Buckley, P.J. 2011. International integration and coordination in the global factory.
Management International Review, 51: 269-283.
http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs11575-011-0075-2#page-1
Ghemawat, P. 2007. Managing differences: the central challenge of global strategy.
Harvard Business Review, March: 1-43.
http://www.gwu.edu/~clai/training_programs/UChile_MBA_Programs/uchile
mba2010/Robles_Readings/Managing_Differences.pdf
Hofstede, G. 2007. Asian management in the 21st century. Asia Pacific Journal of
Management, 24: 411-420.
http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10490-007-9049-0
Khanna, T., Palepu, K.G., & Sinha, J. 2005. Strategy that fits emerging markets.
Harvard Business Review, June: 63-76.
http://www.unifr.ch/intman/assets/files/Teaching/Emerging%20Markets/Litera
ture/May_2_Compulsory_Literature_5.pdf
Mathews, J. 2006. Dragon multinationals: new players in 21st century globalisation.
Asia-Pacific Journal of Management, 23 (1): 5-27.
http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10490-006-6113-0#page-1
Morrison, W.M. 2013. China's Currency Policy: An Analysis of the Economic Issues.
CRS Report for Congress, RS21625: 1-49.
https://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/row/RS21625.pdf
Porter, M & Kramer, M. 2011. Creating shared value. Harvard Business Review, Jan
4-17.
Santos, J.F.P. & Williamson, P.J. 2015. The new mission for multinationals. MIT
Sloan Management Review, 56 (4): 45-54.
http://0-
search.proquest.com.prospero.murdoch.edu.au/docview/1694712965?pq-
origsite=summon&accountid=12629&selectids=10000039,1006985,10000155
Tian, X.W. 2016. Managing international business in China. 2nd
edition. Cambridge
University Press. Particularly, chapters 3-12.
Tian, X.W. & Slocum, J. 2016. Managing corporate social responsibility in China.
Organizational Dynamics, 45: 39-46. 9
http://ac.els-cdn.com.libproxy.murdoch.edu.au/S0090261615000807/1-s2.0-
S0090261615000807-main.pdf?_tid=dda103a8-d0c1-11e6-bb37-
00000aacb362&acdnat=1483344354_ea24e59c04431a9784c8261954de0faf
Additional readings and case studies may be provided during the teaching period.
All lecture powerpoint slides will be posted on to the Unit page at LMS before class.
On-line resources
Students are required to looking for current international business news/events via a
variety of on-line sources, including
Financial Times: http://www.ft.com/home/asia
Australian Financial Review: http://www.afr.com/
Forbes: http://www.forbes.com/
GlobeEDGE: http://globaledge.msu.edu/
Tool kit
Reading of academic texts: http://our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-
life/_document/Student-Learning/Tip-Sheets/Improve-your-reading.pdf
Planning your essay: http://our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/_document/Student-
Learning/Tip-Sheets/planning_your_essay.pdf
Drafting your essay: http://our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/_document/Student-
Learning/Tip-Sheets/Drafting-an-essay
Resources for referencing your work: http://our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-
life/Study-successfully/Online-and-Print-Resources/referencing
APA Style: http://www.apastyle.org/manual/index.aspx
The following will be provided during the teaching period:
Lecture podcasts
Online videos
Online Quiz
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Study Schedule
MODUEL 1. GLOBAL BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
Week/Session Desired Learning Outcomes and
objectives
Reading, Content & Activity Assessment
1
SEMINAR 1:
Introduction
Globalization and the
Rise of Asia
Learning outcome: 1
Learning objectives: When
students have actively engaged
they will be able to:
Identify, describe, and
evaluate changes in the
global business environment
in the Asian century
Assess the impact of these
changes on business
operations
Understand the importance
of a global view to business
success in the Asian century.
BEFORE SEMINAR
Textbook: Hill, Ch 1 or Hill et al, Ch 1.
Online reading: UILG; Mathews, 2006; BCG 2012; Santos & Williamson, 2015;
Online lecture podcast and Quiz
Online video:
1. Globalization (8 minutes): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oTLyPPrZE4
2. Stigliz (44 minutes): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sV7bRLtDr3E
DURING SEMINAR (face-to-face)
The seminar introduces the UILG, and discusses changes in the global business
environment characterised by accelerated globalization and the rise of emerging markets
in Asia.
Case study workshop: IKEA- The Global Retailer (Hill et al, p.33), etc.
AFTER SEMINAR
Reflecting on the key concepts, such as Globalization of market; Globalization of
production; and Emerging markets
Reflecting on the questions as indicated in the Module Description of the topic (p.23).
Working in teams on the International Business Plan through online media (skype, email,
Dropbox, etc.) or face-to-face discussion
Working independently on an essay to be posted to the online discussion forum
Discussion Forum
11
2
SEMINAR 2: Country
Difference and the Myth of
Asia
Learning outcomes: 1 & 2
Learning objectives: When
students have actively engaged
they will be able to:
Identify, describe, and
evaluate country differences
in political economy and
culture
Analyse the causes of cross-
country difference in
economic progress
Acquire skills to critically
integrate theories and
concepts, and apply them to
analysis of rise of Asia
BEFORE SEMINAR
Textbook: Hill, Ch 2, 3 & 4 or Hill et al, Ch, 2 & 3
Online reading: Hofstede 2007; Tian, Ch 3 & 7
Online lecture podcast and Quiz
Online video:
1. Rise of Asia (58 minutes): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wc4eMtAqcvo
DURING SEMINAR (face-to-face)
The seminar focuses on differences in political system, economic system, legal system,
and culture between nations, particularly between Asian nations and other parts of the
world.
Case study workshop: Indonesia – After Suharto and the Asian Crisis (Hill et al, p.72), etc.
AFTER SEMINAR
Reflecting on the key concepts, such as Political economy; Culture; Hofstede; and Variety
of Capitalism
Reflecting on on the questions as indicated in the Module Description of the topic (p.23).
Working in teams on the International Business Plan through online media (skype, email,
Dropbox, etc.) or face-to-face discussion
Working independently on an essay to be posted to the online discussion forum
Discussion Forum
12
3
SEMINAR 3: Cross-country
Linkage and Regional
Integration in the Asia Pacific
Learning outcomes: 1 & 2
Learning objectives: when
students have actively engaged
they will be able to:
Evaluate why countries are
linked by trade and
investment , and why
governments tend to
intervene in international
trade and investment
Identify, describe, and
evaluate functions of foreign
exchange market, the
current international
monetary system, and the
foreign exchange risks in
international business
operations
Acquire skills to critically
integrate theories and
concepts of international
trade, foreign direct
investment and foreign
exchange, and apply them to
analysis of some critical
issues executives face in
managing a global business in
Asia and beyond.
BEFORE SEMINAR
Textbook: Hill, Ch 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 & 11 or Hill et al, Ch, 5, 6, 7, 9 & 10
Online reading: BCG 2012; Buckley, 2011; Tian, Ch 3; Morrison, W.M. 2013;
Online lecture podcast and Quiz
Online video:
1. Free trade in Asia Pacific (9 minutes):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbA4WP-aTAI
2. Trump vs Friedman - Trade Policy Debate (8 minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DhagKyvDck
DURING SEMINAR (face-to-face)
The seminar focuses on theories and evidence of international flows of goods,
investment and currency, and regional integration in the Asia Pacific region.
Case study workshop: DMG-Shanghai (Hill et al, p. 108), etc.
AFTER SEMINAR (online)
Reflecting on the key concepts, such as International trade; New trade theory; Foreign
direct investment; Transaction cost theory; Internalization theory; Regional integration;
spot exchange rate; forward exchange rate; currency swap; transaction exposure;
translation exposure; and economic exposure
Reflecting on the questions as indicated in the Module Description of the topic (p.23).
Working in teams on the International Business Plan through online media (skype, email,
Dropbox, etc.) or face-to-face discussion
Working independently on an essay to be posted to the online discussion forum
Discussion Forum
13
MODUEL 2. GLOBAL STRATEGIC THINKING AND MARKET ENTRY
4
SEMINAR 4: Global Strategic
Thinking
Learning outcomes: 2, 3 & 4
Learning objectives: when
students have actively engaged
they will be able to:
Acquire skills to critically
integrate theories and
concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the critical
strategic decisions executives
have to make in managing a
global business in Asia and
beyond
Analyse and develop
effective approaches to
innovatively develop
strategies in line with the
particular circumstances in
which a firm finds itself
Generate new ideas for
decision-making that benefits
both the company and the
society in an international
context
BEFORE SEMINAR
Textbook: Hill, Ch 13, 14 & 5 or Hill et al, Ch 12, 13 & 4
Online reading: Ghemawat 2007; Khanna et al, 2005; Porter & Kramer 2011; Santos
& Williamson, 2015.
Online lecture podcast and Quiz
Online video:
1 Coco Cola Strategy (5 minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAyJVtEIAtM
2 Porter on Shared value (38 minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaEv4frj-88
DURING SEMINAR (face-to-face)
The seminar focuses on the merits and limitations of a popular strategic framework
in which managers choose among four strategies and corresponding organizational
forms for a global business, and introduces the shared-value creation perspective on
strategy
Case study workshop: Walmart’s Global Expansion (Hill et al, p.429), etc.
AFTER SEMINAR
Reflecting on the key concepts, such as Transnational strategy; Global strategy;
International strategy; Localization strategy; Shared-value creation
Reflecting on the questions as indicated in the Module Description of the topic
(p.27).
Working in teams on the International Business Plan proposal through online media
(skype, email, Dropbox, etc.) or face-to-face discussion
Working independently on an essay to be posted to the online discussion forum
Discussion Forum 14
5
SEMINAR 5: Market Entry and
Strategic Alliances
Learning outcomes: 2, 3 & 4
Learning objectives: when
students have actively engaged
they will be able to:
Acquire skills to critically
integrate theories and
concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the critical
decisions executives have to
make on how to enter a
foreign market
Analyse and develop
effective approaches to
innovatively address the
challenges a firm faces in
entering a foreign country
Generate new ideas to relate
entry decisions to the broad
strategic issues a firm faces in
managing a global business
as discussed in session 5
BEFORE SEMINAR
Textbook: Hill, Ch 15 or Hill et al, Ch 14
Online reading: Tian, Ch 4 & 5
Online lecture podcast and Quiz
Online video:
1. Starbucks CEO on establishing a joint venture in India (3 Minutes):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGl-kr7LXf0
2. SUBWAY Story: Franchisees: Owning Stores (5 Minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qf97eKDdTPM
DURING SEMINAR (face-to-face)
The seminar focuses on decisions on entering a foreign market, including the choice
of a foreign market to enter, the choice of entry timing, the choice of entry scale, and
the choice of entry modes.
Case study workshop: Tesco Goes Global (Hill et al, p.494), etc.
AFTER SEMINAR
Reflecting on the key concepts, such as Exporting; Turnkey; Licensing; Franchising;
Joint venture; Wholly owned subsidiary; Acquisition
Reflecting on the questions as indicated in the Module Description of the topic
(p.27).
Working in teams on the International Business Plan proposal through online media
(skype, email, Dropbox, etc.) or face-to-face discussion
Working independently on an essay to be posted to the online discussion forum
Discussion Forum
Submission of Business
Plan Proposal (Friday,
5pm) 15
6
COACHING 1: International
Business Plan Proposal
Presentation
BEFORE COACHING
Prepare and discuss international business plan proposal in team
DURING COACHING (face-to-face)
Simulation: Each team present international business plan proposal to the Board of
Directors using powerpoint slides, while the rest of the class and the instructor act
as Directors to provide feedback to the proposal
AFTER COACHING
Reflect on the feedback provided by the Board of Directors and the instructor,
write up the international business plan final report
Working independently on an essay to be posted to the online discussion
forum
International Business
Plan Proposal
Presentation 16
MODUEL 3. FUNCTIONAL MANAGEMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION
7
SEMINAR 6: Global Marketing
and R&D
Learning outcomes: 2, 3 & 4
Learning objectives: when
students have actively engaged
they will be able to:
Acquire skills to critically
integrate theories and
concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the challenges
executives face in managing
the marketing mix in an
international context
Analyse and develop
effective approaches to
innovatively resolving
problems a firm faces in
product, pricing, promotion,
and distribution in foreign
markets
Generate new ideas to relate
marketing decisions to the
broad the strategic issues a
firm faces in managing a
global business as discussed
in session 5
BEFORE SEMINAR
Textbook: Hill, Ch 18 or Hill et al, Ch 17
Online reading: Tian, Ch 8; Case studies may be provided in class
Online lecture podcast and Quiz
Online video:
1. McDonald's TV Advertisements in different countries (3 minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_d3SXLxzP3E
2. "Five Things Marketers Get Wrong About China"(17 minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MR2paaSHEAQ
DURING SEMINAR (face-to-face)
The seminar focuses on international marketing mix or marketing 5 Ps: people,
product, price, place and promotion.
Case study workshop: Kodak in Russia (Hill et al, p.607), etc.
AFTER SEMINAR
Reflecting on the key concepts, such as Marketing mix; Market segmentation; Product
attributes; Strategic pricing; Push and Pull strategies; Distribution channel; R&D
Reflecting on the questions as indicated in the Module Description of the topic (p.30).
Working in teams on the final report of the International Business Plan through online
media (skype, email, Dropbox, etc.) or face-to-face discussion
Posing your essay to the online discussion forum (app. 700 words)
Discussion Forum
(Essay submission,
Friday, 5pm) 17
8
SEMINAR 7: Global
Production and Logistics
Learning outcomes: 2, 3 & 4
Learning objectives: when
students have actively engaged
they will be able to:
Acquire skills to critically
integrate theories and
concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the main issues
executives face in managing
production and supply chain
in an international context
Analyse and develop
effective approaches to
innovatively resolving
problems a firm may
encounter in making
decisions on centralization or
decentralization, make or buy
product, and logistics in
foreign markets
Generate new ideas to relate
decisions on production and
logistics to the broad
strategic issues a firm faces in
managing a global business
as discussed in session 5
BEFORE SEMINAR
Textbook: Hill, Ch 17 or Hill et al, Ch 16
Online reading: Buckley, 2011; Tian, Ch 9; Case studies may be provided
Online lecture podcast and Quiz
Online video:
1. Dell Notebook Global Value Chain (2 minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owQzo82ac_M
2. Ford Motor Company's European Supply Chain Case Study [HD] (11 minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWABT48wTFw
DURING SEMINAR (face-to-face)
The seminar focuses on major decisions that executives have to make in managing
production and logistics across national borders, including product quality, the choice
of location and the choice of make-or-buy, and supply chain management
Case study workshop: Microsoft – Outsourcing Xbox Production (Hill et al, p.573), etc.
AFTER SEMINAR
Reflecting on the key concepts, such as Minimal efficiency scale; Lean production;
Value-to-weight ratio; Make-or-Buy; Just-in-time
Reflecting on the questions as indicated in the Module Description of the topic (p.30).
Working in teams on the final report of the International Business Plan through online
media (skype, email, Dropbox, etc.) or face-to-face discussion
Reading essays posted by peer students in the online discussion forum and prepare
your comments on two essays of a topic different from yours (app. 350 word for each
comment).
Discussion Forum
18
9
SEMINAR 8: Global Human
Resource Management
Learning outcomes: 2, 3 & 4
Learning objectives: when
students have actively engaged
they will be able to:
Acquire skills to critically
integrate theories and
concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the main issues
executives face in human
resource management in an
international context
Analyse and develop
effective approaches to
innovatively resolving
problems a firm may
encounter in staffing,
expatriate management, and
local workforce management
Generate new ideas to relate
decisions on human resource
management to the broad
strategic issues a firm faces in
managing a global business
as discussed in session 5.
BEFORE SEMINAR
Textbook: Hill, Ch 19 or Hill et al, Ch 18
Online reading: Tian, Ch 10; Case studies may be provided
Online lecture podcast and Quiz
Online video:
1. Expat Women in Hong Kong Society (5 minutes):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5Mk6o_QXlQ
2. Apple Chinese Factory Foxconn Nightline(15 minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1_XAuJ8qCc
DURING SEMINAR (face-to-face)
The seminar focuses on the major human resource management issues that
executives face in managing a global business.
Case study workshop: XCO China (Hill et al, p.635), etc.
Course review for exam
AFTER SEMINAR
Reflecting on the key concepts, such as Ethnocentric staffing; Polycentric staffing;
Geocentric staffing; Expatriate failure; Labour rights
Reflecting on the questions as indicated in the Module Description on the topic
(p.30).
Working in teams on the final report of the International Business Plan through online
media (skype, email, Dropbox, etc.) or face-to-face discussion
Posting your comment on one essay to the online discussion forum
Discussion Forum
(Comment 1
submission, Friday,
5pm) 19
COACHING. INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS PLAN REPORT
10
COACHING 2: International
Business Plan final report
BEFORE COACHING
Discuss international business plan final report in team, and prepare for the questions
on which you need to consult with the instructor during coaching hours
DURING COACHING (face-to-face)
Meet with the instructor to discuss the questions you have regarding your
international business plan final report
AFTER COACHING
Reflect on the discussion with the instructor, and continue to work on the
international business plan final report
Posting your comment on a second essay to the online discussion forum
Discussion Forum
(comment 2
submission, Friday,
5pm)
11
COACHING 3: International
Business Plan final report
BEFORE COACHING
Discuss international business plan final report in team, and prepare for the questions
on which you need to consult with the instructor during coaching hours
DURING COACHING (face-to-face)
Meet with the instructor to discuss the questions you have regarding your
international business plan final report
AFTER COACHING
Reflect on the discussion with the instructor, and continue to work on the
international business plan final report
12
COACHING 4: International
Business Plan final report
BEFORE COACHING
Discuss international business plan final report in team, and prepare for the questions
on which you need to consult with the instructor during coaching hours
DURING COACHING (face-to-face)
Meet with the instructor to discuss the questions you have regarding your
international business plan final report
AFTER COACHING
Reflect on the discussion with the instructor, and continue to work on the
international business plan final report
International Business
Plan final report
submission (Friday,
5pm)
13 Study Break
14 Assessment Week Final Exam 20
Assessment
Assessment for this unit is conducted in accordance with the Assessment Policy.
The version of the Assessment Policy applicable for this unit can be found at
http://www.murdoch.edu.au/index/policies/index?Filter=assessment
Schedule of assessment items
Assessment components
Assignment Value Unit
Learning
Outcome
Course Learning
Outcome
Due
International Business Plan
Proposal & Presentation
(1,500 words equivalent)
15%
1,2 [K] 1,4
[S-A] 11,12
Submission: Friday,
5pm Week 5 (9
June).
Presentation:
Week 6
International Business Plan Final
Report (4,500 words)
35%
1,2,3,4 [K] 1,2,3
[S-A] 2, 3,11, 12
Friday, 5pm, Week 12
(28 July)
Participation (2,000 words equivalent)
In-class discussion
Online discussion forum
20%
1,2,3,4 [K] 1,2,3
[S-A] 2, 3,11, 12
Continuous
Essay: Friday, 5pm,
Week 7 (23 June)
Comment 1:
Friday, 5pm, Week
9 (7 July)
Comment 2:
Friday, 5pm, Week
10 (14 July)
Final Exam (3,000 word equivalent)
30%
1,2,3,4 [K] 1,2,3
[S-A] 2, 3,11, 12
Week 14
Note: The assessment is cumulative in nature. All parts of the assessment must be completed
in order to pass the course.
Assessment details
1. International Business Plan Proposal & Presentation: 15%
You need to undertake an international business plan project throughout the semester. This
assignment is to facilitate you in achieving unit learning outcomes 1, 2, 3 and 4. The 21
international business plan project will be undertaken in a group of 2-4 depending on the size
of the class.
In sessions 1 & 2, you will negotiate with other students to form a team based on common
interest. The instructor may restructure the groupings when it deems necessary. The team
need to select a team coordinator in the following weeks and inform the instructor of the
name and student ID of the coordinator no later than the end of session 2. The coordinator
liaises with team members to organize team meetings for the project.
The assumption of the project is that you are now working for a company which plans to
enter a foreign market and asks you to develop a business plan for the overseas business
expansion. The company’s information should be accessible on internet. You are advised to
choose a company in an industry that you are familiar with or an industry where you plan to
work after your MBA study. You must discuss your chosen company with the instructor. You
must choose a foreign country market that the company HAS NOT entered yet. You may
find the GlobeEDGE website useful in searching for information about the target country
market: http://globaledge.msu.edu/.
You need to submit a written proposal of your business plan in Microsoft Word format via
LMS no later than Friday, Week 5, 5pm. An assignment cover sheet must be attached to the
assignment. The proposal should be approximately 1,500 words in length.
In week 6, the coaching session, there is a simulation: you are required to present the
proposal of your business plan to the Board of Directors of your company, while other
students and the instructor will act as members of the Board of Directors to provide feedback
on your proposal. The duration of the presentation should be 15 minutes. After the
presentation, you need to respond to the comments and questions from the Board of
Directors. You will receive the mark and written feedback on your business plan proposal
and presentation within two weeks after your presentation.
Marking criteria
1) Ability to explain why the company chooses to enter the target country market
(5%);
2) Ability to recommend strategy and entry mode appropriate for the company in the
chosen market, and explain the rationale for your recommendations (6%);
3) Oral presentation and communication skills, and skills in interacting with
classmates to respond to questions (2%)
4) Written presentation skills and editorial care (2%)
To do well in the international business plan proposal and presentation, you need to conduct
extensive research on the chosen company and the target country market, read relevant
chapters of the textbook and additional readings as indicated in the Study Schedule, and
relate your analysis and argument to what are discussed in these readings and seminars.
2. International Business Plan Final Report: 35%
After receiving feedback on your outline presentation, you need to revise your business plan
in the following weeks, and write up the International Business Plan Final Report. There are
three coaching sessions in weeks 10, 11 & 12, respectively, in which you meet with the
instructor in team to discuss the questions/problems you have in writing up the international 22
business plan report. The final report should be about 5,000 words in length, excluding
footnotes, references, and appendices, but inclusive of tables and figures. The report should
be typed in Word format, including
1) Executive summary (Appx.400 words);
2) Introduction to the company and the market to enter (Appx.600 words);
3) Business model analysis and SWOT analysis (Appx.1,000 words);
4) The strategic issues the company needs to address and the entry modes the company
should choose in entering the market (Appx.800 words);
5) Key management issues the company faces in specific functional areas (marketing,
production/logistics, and human resource management), and actions the company is
recommended to take to address these issues (Appx2, 200 words).
The final report should be submitted in Word format via LMS no later than Friday, week 12,
5pm. An assignment cover sheet must be attached to the assignment. You must complete and
sign the declaration. You will receive the mark and feedback on the written report of your
international business plan within two weeks after submission. The marking criteria are as
follows.
Marking criteria
1) Ability to identify and evaluate the current business model of the company, the
opportunities and threats the company faces in the target market, the strengths
and weaknesses of the company in comparison with competitors in the target
market, and, most importantly, major strategic and managerial issues the
company will have to address in the target market (10%);
2) Ability to integrate information, including facts and examples from your own
research, to develop a logical and coherent business plan framework for analysis
of these strategic and managerial issues (11%);
3) Ability to select theoretical constructs learnt from classroom and self-directed
reading, and innovatively apply them to creatively addressing these strategic and
managerial issues (11%);
4) Quality of written presentation and editorial care (3%)
To do well in the International Business Plan report, you need to conduct extensive research
on the chosen company and the target country market, read relevant chapters of the textbook
and additional readings as indicated in the Study Schedule, relate your analysis and argument
to what are discussed in these readings and seminars, and reflect on the feedback on your
proposal provided by peer students and the instructor.
International Business Plan Championship Award
The best business plan will be awarded the “International Business Plan
Championship Award”. The Champion of the International Business Plan will be
announced when the mark of the final report of the International Business Plan is
released, and will be given a Certificate.
Minutes of Group Meetings
In undertaking the International Business Plan project, each student in the team needs
to prepare a record of all group meetings to facilitate marking of this team-based 23
assignment. The Minutes of Group Meetings should include 1) date & place of each
meeting; 2) attendees of each meeting; 3) allocation of work to each member of the
team; and 4) main issues discussed and decisions made at each meeting. You must
submit the Minutes of Group Meetings to the instructor via LMS when you submit the
final report of International Business Plan. An assignment cover sheet must be
attached to Minutes of Group meetings.
If problems arise in the team, the team should first try to resolve the problems within
the team, and record the process in the Minutes of Group Meetings. If the problems
cannot be resolved within the team, you need to consult with the instructor on
possible solutions.
The instructor will assess the performance of individual members in this assignment
based on the Minutes of Group Meetings and the instructor’s interaction with team
members. The assessment of individual performance will focus on 1) attendance of
group meetings; 2) collaboration with team members; and 3) performance in
completing the assigned task for the business plan project.
3. Participation: 20%
Students are required to actively participate in learning activities in the Unit,
especially the in-class discussion and the online discussion forum.
In-class discussion
During each seminar, the instructor may organize various activities including case
study, video, and group discussion. Students are required to actively participate in
these in-class learning activities, particularly discussion on the selected case studies.
Online discussion forum
Each student needs to choose one of the five topics listed below to write a short essay
of approximately 700 words, and post it to the Forum no later than Friday, Week 7,
5pm. After posing your essay, each student needs to write comments on two essays
posted by other students on a topic different from yours, and post your comments on
the two essays in Week 9 (no later than Friday, 5pm) and Week 10 ( no later than
Friday, 5pm), respectively. Each comment should be approximately 350 words in
length, and should demonstrate an awareness of the readings/videos as required in the
Unit.
The Discussion Forum is intended to function as an online workshop for constructive
exchange of ideas and experiences. Professional standards of behaviour should be
observed as well as respect and goodwill. Possible topics for discussion include:
According to Hofstede (2007), Asian cultures bear some common features?
What are they? How do these features influence management in Asia? If you
were hired as a CEO who manages the subsidiary of an Australian company in
an Asian country, how would you manage the subsidiary in the Asian cultural
context?
Buckley (2011) proposed the concept “global factory”. What does the concept
mean? What are the implications of the concept for international business? If
you were to establish a firm of your own, how would you leverage the global
factory to develop your firm into a successful international business? 24
According to Mathews (2006), what strategy do firms from emerging Asian
economies take to catch up with firms from advanced economies? If you were
hired as a CEO of a firm based in an Asian emerging economy, how would
you take this strategy to develop your firm into a “dragon multinational”?
According to Santos and Williamson (2015), many multinationals based in
advanced economies have failed in competition with local firms in emerging
economies. Why did these multinationals fail? If you were hired as a CEO of
one of such multinationals, what would you do to address the challenges you
face in emerging economies?
According to Porter and Kramer (2011), firms need to create shared value.
What does “creating shared value” mean? How does this approach differ from
prior approach to corporate social responsibility? How should a company
create shared value in an international business context?
In week 10 after posting your second comment, you need to compile a portfolio of all the
three postings in a single document, and submit it via LMS. You will receive the mark and
feedback on your participation two or three weeks after week 10. The marking criteria for in-
class discussion and online discussion forum are as follows.
Marking criteria for in-class discussion (10%)
1) Relevance to what are discussed in the Unit, and awareness of readings and
videos as required in the Unit (4%);
2) Ability to select theoretical constructs learnt from self-directed readings and
seminars, and innovatively apply them to addressing the issues under discussion
(2%);
3) Quality of oral communication (2%).
Marking criteria for online discussion forum (10%)
1) Relevance to what are discussed in the Unit, and awareness of readings and
videos as required in the Unit (4%);
2) Ability to select theoretical constructs learnt from self-directed readings and
seminars, and innovatively apply them to addressing the issues under discussion
(2%);
3) Quality of written presentation (2%).
To do well in participation, you need to attend all seminars, read the required readings, view
videos as required, and relate your analysis and argument to what are discussed in these
readings, videos and seminars.
4. Final exam: 30% (Approximately 180 minutes)
The final exam will be in Week 14. The exam is closed book, consisting of multiple
choice questions and case/essay questions.
Assignment submission
25
Further to what has been said above about the lodgement of assignments the
following must be complied with:
It is the responsibility of students to keep a copy of all assignments handed in for
assessment.
Late submissions will be penalized according to the University policy.
In unforeseeable circumstances, you need to write to the instructor to obtain
approval for extension of the deadline.
Referencing style
In writing the International Business Plan report, you can follow either the APA
reference style or the Chicago referencing style, but you must use one of them
consistently throughout the proposal and report. The two referencing styles can be
found at http://our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Study-successfully/Online-and-Print-
Resources/referencing
Determination of the final grade
It is important to submit all prescribed assignments and sit the final exam;
See pages 8-10 of the Unit Guide on how the indicative percentages of each
component combined to form the final grade;
A deferred exam is available due to medical or any unforeseen circumstances.
Prior permission should be obtained from the Examinations Office;
Supplementary assessment and exam shall be at the discretion of the Unit
Coordinator;
There is a possibility of marks being moderated to ensure equity of marking and
consistency across examinations on different offerings of the unit;
The final grade is based on the percentage range of your marks as illustrated in the
table below.
Grades and Marks
Notation Grade Percentage Range
HD High Distinction 80 – 100
D Distinction 70 – 79
C Credit 60 – 69
P Pass 50 – 59
N Fail Below 50
DNS Fail Fail, the student failed to participate in
assessment components that had a combined
weighting of 50% or more of the final mark.
SA Supplementary Assignment 45 – 49*
SX Supplementary Exam 45 – 49*
*The award of the grade of SA or SX shall be at the discretion of the Unit Coordinator
26
LEARNING GUIDE
This Unit consists of 8 seminars and 4 structured coaching sessions organized into
four modules.
MODULE 1: GLOBAL BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
The module discusses the changes in the global business environment in recent
decades. It includes three seminars.
The first seminar is about accelerated globalization and the rise of emerging markets in
Asia. Key issues to be discussed include:
In what ways has globalization accelerated?
What have driven globalization?
What are the benefits and costs of globalization?
How does globalization affect business and management?
What does the rise of emerging economies in Asia mean to firms in this region?
The second seminar is about cross-border differences in political economy and culture
against accelerated globalization. Key issues to be discussed include:
How do countries differ in political system, economic system, and culture?
How do country differences affect economic development? What has led to the
Asian miracle in recent years?
How do country differences affect business operations in this region?
Do you agree with Francis Fukuyama or Samuel Huntington on where the world
is heading? Please justify your argument with evidence.
The third seminar is about cross-country linkage and regional integration in the Asia
Pacific region. Countries that differ significantly in political economy and culture are
increasingly connected by cross-country flows of goods, investments and currencies.
Economic integration accelerated in the Asia Pacific region in recent years. Key issues
to be discussed include:
Why do countries trade with each other, and invest in foreign countries?
Should national governments intervene in cross-country flows of goods and
investment or leave the flows to the hand of free market forces?
What determine the change in foreign exchange rates? How are foreign
exchange rates managed by national governments and the international
community?
What role does a foreign exchange market play?
What are the major foreign exchange risks? How to deal with these risks?
What does Asia Pacific economic integration mean to firms in this region?
The discussion will provide you with a broad picture of the changing global context
in which a business is operating today, and will help you think and analyse the
strategy and management issues to be discussed in the following two modules. 27
Seminar 1. Introduction: Globalization and the Rise of
Asia
Session description
The session introduces students to the field of global business, including key
information about the unit as described in this UILG. The session then discusses
changes in the landscape of the global business environment characterised by
accelerated globalization and the rise of emerging markets in Asia. The discussion
focuses on the benefits and costs of globalization, and the impact of the changing
global business environment on business operations.
What you need to do
Students are expected to go through the readings and YouTube videos specified in the
Study Schedule as well as the podcast and quiz related to this topic prior to attending
the seminar, and do the assignments indicated in the Study Schedule after the
seminar.
Learning outcome
Identify, describe, and evaluate changes in the global business environment in the
Asian century, and the impact of the changes on business operations (ULO 1)
Key concepts
Globalization of market
Globalization of production
Emerging markets
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for this section as indicated in the Study Schedule.
You also need to search for additional information from various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to read and debate case studies.
28
Seminar 2. Country Difference and the Myth of Asia
Session description
Cross-border differences in political economy and culture persist despite accelerated
globalization. This session discusses differences in political system, economic
system, legal system, and culture between nations, particularly between Asian nations
and other parts of the world. The session focuses on how the differences affect
economic development as well as business operations.
What you need to do
Students are expected to go through the readings and YouTube videos specified in the
Study Schedule as well as the podcast and quiz related to this topic prior to attending
the seminar, and do the assignments indicated in the Study Schedule after the
seminar.
Learning outcome
Identify, describe, and evaluate changes in the global business environment in the
Asian century, and the impact of the changes on business operations (ULO 1)
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Key concepts
Political economy
Culture
Hofstede
Variety of Capitalism
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for this section as indicated in the Study Schedule.
You also need to search for additional information from various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to read and debate case studies.
29
Seminar 3. Cross-country Linkage and Regional
Integration in the Asia Pacific
Session description
The session discusses international flows of goods, investment, and currencies, and
regional integration in the Asia Pacific region. The session focuses on theoretical
rationales for cross-border linkage, government policy toward cross-border linkage,
and implications of cross-country linkage for managing a global business in the Asia
Pacific region.
What you need to do
Students are expected to go through the readings and YouTube videos specified in the
Study Schedule as well as the podcast and quiz related to this topic prior to attending
the seminar, and do the assignments indicated in the Study Schedule after the
seminar.
Learning outcome
Identify, describe, and evaluate changes in the global business environment in the
Asian century, and the impact of the changes on business operations (ULO 1)
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Key concepts
International trade
Foreign direct investment
Foreign exchange
Regional integration
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for this section as indicated in the Study Schedule.
You also need to search for additional information from various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to read and debate case studies.
30
MODULE 2: GLOBAL STRATEGIC THINKING AND
MARKET ENTRY
This module introduces some frameworks, analytical tools, and concepts that help
managers think strategically about how to deal with the opportunities and challenges
they face in the rapidly changing global business environment. It includes two seminars
and one coaching session.
The first seminar, global strategic thinking, focuses on four strategic choices of dealing
with two major pressures in global business and the corresponding organizational
structures. It also discusses the problems with the framework of the four strategic
choices, the emerging approach to incorporating corporate social responsibility into
strategy, and some analytical tools. Key issues to be discussed include:
What are the two major pressures faced by managers in international business?
How should managers deal with these pressures?
What is an international strategy, a global strategy, a localization strategy, and
a transnational strategy?
What is an international division structure, a worldwide area structure, a
worldwide product structure, and a global matrix structure?
How are the four strategic choices related to the four organizational structures?
What is shared-value creation? How can firms incorporate corporate social
responsibility into strategy to create shared value in international business,
especially in the Asian context?
The second seminar, market entry and strategic alliances, focuses on strategic decisions
on how to enter a foreign market, including which market to enter, at what time, on
what scale, and by what entry mode. In particular, it introduces specific entry modes
and various strategic alliances. Key issues to be discussed include:
How to make decisions on which foreign market to enter, at what time, and on
what scale?
What make Asian countries attractive or unattractive to foreign investors?
What are the six major entry modes? What are the advantages and
disadvantages of each of these entry modes?
What are the major types of international strategic alliances? What are the
challenges that managers face in making the strategic alliances work?
The coaching session consists of a simulation in which each team present their
international business plan proposal to the Board of Directors using powerpoint slides,
while the rest of the class and the instructor act as the Directors to provide feedback on
the proposal. The international business plan proposal should focus on the choice of a
foreign market, of strategy, and of entry mode for your company.
Seminar 4. Global Strategic Thinking 31
Session description
The session discusses a popular strategic framework in which managers choose
among four strategies and corresponding organizational forms for a global business.
The session further points out drawbacks of the framework, and advises managers to
innovatively incorporate ethics and CSR into strategic thinking in order to create
shared value in global business. The session ends in introducing some useful strategic
analytical tools.
What you need to do
Students are expected to go through the readings and YouTube videos specified in the
Study Schedule as well as the podcast and quiz related to this topic prior to attending
the seminar, and do the assignments indicated in the Study Schedule after the
seminar.
Learning outcome
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Analyse and develop effective approaches to innovatively resolving problems in
challenging international business situations (ULO 3).
Generate new ideas for decision-making that benefits both the company and the
society in an international context (ULO 4).
Key concepts
Transnational, global, international, and localization strategies
Shared-value creation
SWOT analysis
Business model and strategic positioning
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for this section as indicated in the Study Schedule.
You also need to search for additional information from various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to read and debate case studies.
Seminar 5. Market Entry and Strategic Alliances 32
Session description
The session introduces students to major decisions on entering a foreign market,
including the choice of a foreign market to enter, the choice of entry timing, the
choice of entry scale, and the choice of entry modes. It also discusses what types of
strategic alliances a firm may form with local partners in a foreign market, and how to
make an international strategic alliance work.
What you need to do
Students are expected to go through the readings and YouTube videos specified in the
Study Schedule as well as the podcast and quiz related to this topic prior to attending
the seminar, and do the assignments indicated in the Study Schedule after the
seminar.
Learning outcome
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Analyse and develop effective approaches to innovatively resolving problems in
challenging international business situations (ULO 3).
Generate new ideas for decision-making that benefits both the company and the
society in an international context (ULO 4).
Key concepts
Exporting
Turnkey
Licensing
Franchising
Joint venture
Wholly owned subsidiary
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for this section as indicated in the Study Schedule.
You also need to search for additional information from various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to read and debate case studies. 33
Coaching 1. International Business Plan Proposal
Presentation
Session description
The coaching session consists of a simulation in which each team present their
international business plan proposal to the Board of Directors using powerpoint slides,
while the rest of the class and the instructor act as the Directors to provide feedback to
the proposal. The international business plan proposal should focus on the choice of a
foreign market, of the strategy, and of entry mode for your company.
What you need to do
Students are expected to work in team to prepare for the international business plan
proposal before the coaching session. In the coaching session, students need to
formally present the proposal to the Board of Directors for feedback and suggestions.
To do well in the session, students need to actively participate in the previous
seminars and do the readings related to the seminars.
Learning outcome
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Analyse and develop effective approaches to innovatively resolving problems in
challenging international business situations (ULO 3).
Generate new ideas for decision-making that benefits both the company and the
society in an international context (ULO 4).
Key concepts
Business model
Strategy, entry mode
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for the previous five seminar sessions as indicated in
the Study Schedule. You also need to search for additional information from various
online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to actively participate in the simulation. 34
MODULE 3: FUNCTIONAL MANAGEMENT AND
IMPLEMENTATION
Module Description: This module discusses management issues in major functional
areas in international business. These issues are, to a degree, related to implementation
of the strategies discussed in the last module. It includes three seminars.
The first seminar, global marketing, focuses on the marketing mix in an international
context, especially the tension between global elements and local elements in the
marketing mix. It also examines R&D in an international business. Key issues to be
discussed include:
Can a firm sell the same product in the same way around the world?
Why is market segmentation important in international business?
What are the main reasons for product localization?
What are the major pricing strategies in international business?
Under what circumstances should a firm adopt a push or a pull promotion
strategy?
What are the major challenges a firm faces in international distribution?
How should a firm deal with R&D failure in international business?
The second seminar, production and logistics, focuses on critical decisions a firm
manager has to make in international production and supply chain management,
including the decision on where to produce, and the decision on “make-or-buy”. Key
issues to be discussed include:
What are the major factors that influence the decision on centralizing or
decentralizing production facilities in an international business?
What are the major factors that influence the decision on vertical integration or
outsourcing in an international business?
What are the major challenges a firm faces in global supply chain management?
The third seminar, global human resource management, focuses on staffing policy,
expatriate management, and local workforce management in international business.
Key issues to be discussed include:
What are the advantages and disadvantages of each of the three staffing policies:
ethnocentric, polycentric, and geocentric?
What are the major factors that lead to expatriate failure? How to address
expatriate failure?
How to manage local labour force in relation to local talents and labour rights?
The discussion will help you think about the challenges a manager faces in specific
functional areas in an international business and possible approaches to dealing with
these challenges. You need to relate these issues to your business plan, and discuss the
issues that are relevant to your business plan in your final report.
Seminar 6. Global Marketing and R&D 35
Session description
The session introduces students to the concepts of marketing mix or marketing 5 Ps:
people, product, price, place and promotion. It examines the tension between global
standardization and local differentiation in international marketing, focusing on how
to marketing products and services in foreign markets with different levels of
economic development, different cultures, and different technical standards. It also
discusses the role R&D plays in global marketing.
What you need to do
Students are expected to go through the readings and YouTube videos specified in the
Study Schedule as well as the podcast and quiz related to this topic prior to attending
the seminar, and do the assignments indicated in the Study Schedule after the
seminar.
Learning outcome
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Analyse and develop effective approaches to innovatively resolving problems in
challenging international business situations (ULO 3).
Generate new ideas for decision-making that benefits both the company and the
society in an international context (ULO 4).
Key concepts
Marketing mix
Product attributes
Strategic pricing
Push and Pull strategies
Distribution channel
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for this section as indicated in the Study Schedule.
You also need to search for additional information from various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to read and debate case studies.
Seminar 7. Global Production and Logistics 36
Session description
The session introduces students to the major decisions that executives have to make in
managing production operations across national borders, including product quality,
the choice of location and the choice of make-or-buy. It then discusses the major
issues of supply chain management in international business, including just-in-time
management, supply quality, and the role of information technology.
What you need to do
Students are expected to go through the readings and YouTube videos specified in the
Study Schedule as well as the podcast and quiz related to this topic prior to attending
the seminar, and do the assignments indicated in the Study Schedule after the
seminar.
Learning outcome
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Analyse and develop effective approaches to innovatively resolving problems in
challenging international business situations (ULO 3).
Generate new ideas for decision-making that benefits both the company and the
society in an international context (ULO 4).
Key concepts
Minimal efficiency scale
Lean production
Value-to-weight ratio
Make-or-Buy
Just-in-time
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for this section as indicated in the Study Schedule.
You also need to search for additional information from various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to read and debate case studies .
Seminar 8. Global Human Resource Management 37
Session description
The session introduces students to the major human resource management issues that
executives face in managing a global business, including staffing policy, expatriate
management, and local workforce management.
What you need to do
Students are expected to go through the readings and YouTube videos specified in the
Study Schedule as well as the podcast and quiz related to this topic prior to attending
the seminar, and do the assignments indicated in the Study Schedule after the
seminar.
Learning outcome
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Analyse and develop effective approaches to innovatively resolving problems in
challenging international business situations (ULO 3).
Generate new ideas for decision-making that benefits both the company and the
society in an international context (ULO 4).
Key concepts
Ethnocentric staffing
Polycentric staffing
Geocentric staffing
Expatriate failure
Labour rights
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for this section as indicated in the Study Schedule.
You also need to search for additional information from various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to read and debate case studies.
38
COACHING: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS PLAN
REPORT
Description: In the last three coaching sessions, students meet with the instructor in
team, and discuss the questions they have in writing up the international business plan
report.
Before the coaching sessions, it is important that students work in team to prepare for
the international business plan report, and figure out questions/problems in relation to
the international business plan report. The questions/problems may be related to the
strategy choices, the entry choices, marketing, human resource management,
production and supply chain management, corporate social responsibility, etc..
The coaching is structured as ‘open’ sessions in which students and the instructor
interact to explore and address the ‘real’ problems the chosen company faces in entering
a new market. In the coaching sessions, the instructor facilitates students in finding out
solutions to the questions/problems they have in writing up the international business
plan.
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Coaching 2. International Business Plan Report
Session description
The coaching session provides an opportunity for students to consult with the instructor
in team on the questions and problems they have in writing up the international business
plan report.
What you need to do
Students are expected to work in team to prepare for the international business plan
report before the coaching session. In the coaching session, students need to discuss
with the instructor about the questions/problems they have in writing up the
international business plan report.
Learning outcome
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Analyse and develop effective approaches to innovatively resolving problems in
challenging international business situations (ULO 3).
Generate new ideas for decision-making that benefits both the company and the
society in an international context (ULO 4).
Key concepts
Those in previous sessions
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for the previous eight seminar sessions as indicated
in the Study Schedule. You also need to search for additional information from
various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to actively participate in consultation session.
40
Coaching 3. International Business Plan Report
Session description
The coaching session provides an opportunity for students to consult with the instructor
in team on the questions and problems they have in writing up the international business
plan report.
What you need to do
Students are expected to work in team to prepare for the international business plan
report before the coaching session. In the coaching session, students need to discuss
with the instructor about the questions/problems they have in writing up the
international business plan report.
Learning outcome
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Analyse and develop effective approaches to innovatively resolving problems in
challenging international business situations (ULO 3).
Generate new ideas for decision-making that benefits both the company and the
society in an international context (ULO 4).
Key concepts
Those in previous sessions
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for the previous eight seminar sessions as indicated
in the Study Schedule. You also need to search for additional information from
various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to actively participate in consultation session.
41
Coaching 4. International Business Plan Report
Session description
The coaching session provides an opportunity for students to consult with the instructor
in team on the questions and problems they have in writing up the international business
plan report.
What you need to do
Students are expected to work in team to prepare for the international business plan
report before the coaching session. In the coaching session, students need to discuss
with the instructor about the questions/problems they have in writing up the
international business plan report.
Learning outcome
Acquire skills to critically integrate theories and concepts, and apply them to
analysis of the opportunities and challenges executives face in managing a global
business in Asia and beyond (ULO 2).
Analyse and develop effective approaches to innovatively resolving problems in
challenging international business situations (ULO 3).
Generate new ideas for decision-making that benefits both the company and the
society in an international context (ULO 4).
Key concepts
Those in previous sessions
Resources for the session
The main resources for the session are the relevant chapter (s) of the prescribed
textbook and additional readings for the previous eight seminar sessions as indicated
in the Study Schedule. You also need to search for additional information from
various online sources.
Learning activities/tasks
Students will be required to actively participate in consultation session.
42
EXAM
Week 13 is Study Break, and Week 14 is exam week (see page 24 for details of exam).