Module Description

Introduction to International Business

Short Code:
M_boek.IIBU
Language of Instruction:
English
ECTS-Credits:
3
Central Idea:

International business has become more important, but also more complex and dynamic due to the globalization in the last 30 years. These aspects require very careful strategic planning and operational implementation considering global integration, but also local market needs. The course covers these fundamental themes as well as the critical success factors of international business. The course equips students with specific strategy management models and best practice techniques needed to successfully manage international businesses. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to explain, recognize and evaluate the relevant strategic management models, and strategy, supply chain, pricing and risks aspects as well as the success factor and levers of global operating companies. 

Module Coordinator:
Casanova Thomas
Lecturers:
Casanova Thomas
Location (Offered):
St. Gallen (Standard)
Additional Required Knowledge:

 Prerequisite: Course “Systemisches Management (SYMG)”
The course is accessible to students from different backgrounds and with varying levels of experience.

Module Type:
Compulsory Elective Module for Betriebsökonomie BB STD_23(No Semester Recommendation)Category:Ergänzungsmodule (EG_Mod_WI)
Compulsory Elective Module for Betriebsökonomie VZ STD_23(No Semester Recommendation)Category:Ergänzungsmodule (EG_Mod_WI)
Compulsory Elective Module for Management & Recht BB STD_23(No Semester Recommendation)Category:Ergänzungsmodule (EG_Mod_WI)
Compulsory Elective Module for Management & Recht VZ STD_23(No Semester Recommendation)Category:Ergänzungsmodule (EG_Mod_WI)
Compulsory Elective Module for Wirtschaftsinformatik BB STD_23(No Semester Recommendation)Category:Ergänzungsmodule (EG_Mod_WI)
Compulsory Elective Module for Wirtschaftsinformatik VZ STD_23(No Semester Recommendation)Category:Ergänzungsmodule (EG_Mod_WI)
Module Evaluation:
grade from 1 to 6

Performance Evaluation

During the Exam Session:
Written Exam, 90 minutes
During the Semester:
Evaluation Type:
grade from 1 to 6

Contents

Module and Learning Content:

 1.     Success factors of global operating corporations                                       

  • Management theories and models o    Main reasons why international businesses fail?
  • Country-specific tonics
  • New global challenges

2.     Global Supply Chain Management                         

  • Management theories and models
  • Challenges
  • Best practices

3.     Risk Management of global operating corporations                                    

  • Introduction to risk management theory
  • Supply chain risk
  • Currency exchange risk
  • Country-specific risks

4.     International Pricing                                                                                             

  • Pricing strategies of global players
  • Strategic pricing vs local pricing

5.     Case study B2C (e.g. IKEA, Starbucks, McDonalds)                                              

6.     Case study B2B (about a Swiss global manufacturer)                                             

7.     Company visit to a global manufacturing company located in Eastern Switzerland 

Teaching and Learning Methods:
  • Lecture, discussion, guided self-study, examples and case studies
  • Company visit at a global manufacturing company to see the covered topics from a practical entrepreneurial perspective