SYLLABUS
GM 105 Section 6- Strategic Management
Spring 2013
(Tuesday/Thursday 1:30PM-2:45PM)
Amador Hall 314
INSTRUCTOR:
OFFICE:
PHONE/FAX:
E-MAIL:
CONFERENCE HOURS:
Dr. Jeff Niu
TAH 2023
(916) 278-6939
niuk@csus.edu
T/TH 10:30AM to 12:00PM or by appointment
INTRODUCTION
Strategic Management (GM 105) is a capstone course that focuses on the integration of
functional areas of a business and requires students to determine strategies/policies at the
general-management level. Students address problems and issues faced by companies
seeking to manage the relationships between different elements within the organizational
boundaries, and to integrate functional areas in order to optimize performance.
Prerequisites: 1. Completion of all other business foundation courses and senior standing. This
course is meant to be taken in the last semester of your course work.
2. Minimum knowledge of the industries and companies such as 3M, Toyota,
Honda, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Coach, Calaway, Taylormade, Nike, GM, GE,
Dell, Microsoft, Intel, Google, Sony, Panasonic, Samsung, HTC and
Apple...etc.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
This course has been structured to help you achieve four major objectives. At the end of the
course you will,
1. Appreciate the value of taking a general managers view of the firm
2. Learn to synthesize your thinking around a strategic framework which includes the
following elements:
- Strategy and Organization
- Environment
- Resources
- Strategic Leadership and Reward
3. Understand how functional areas interact to influence firm performance
4. Problem solving skills
5. Learn to make decisions that create better integration between functional areas so as to
1
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento
improve firm performance
REQUIRED TEXT
Strategic Management: Concepts & Cases, Carpenter, by Frank Rothaermel,
McGraw Hill Publishing. ISBN: 978-0-07-760286-4 (Additional readings, cases, and/or
exercises will be distributed in class). This textbook is required for this class so make sure
you have it.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION AND GRADING
Your grade in this course will be determined by your performance on assignments, multiple
choice exams, team projects, a comprehensive final exam, your participation in classroom
and team-specific activities. The points-distribution will be as follows:
Participation/Quiz:
Assignments 1 & 2 (@50 each):
Assignments #3 (@ 100 points)
Case Analysis #1 (Written Report)
Case Analysis #2 (Presentation + Written Report)
Multiple Choices Exams (2 @ 100 points each)
Comprehensive Final Exam
Maximum Points Possible
100
100
100
150
250
200
100
1000
Note: You Earn Your Grades. The points will be assigned Fairly based on your
performance.
Point Scale
2
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento
NOTE: Your individual grade on each case will be computed based on the team grade and the
peer evaluation grade that you receive. It means if you did not do your job and contribute fully,
your teammates have the authority to lower your grade. Thus, please make sure that you are
prepared and willing for team works.
METHOD OF INSTRUCTION
Classes in the course will be conducted using discussions, exercises, articles and cases.
PowerPoint slides and whiteboard will be used in this class. Discussions will be used to
elaborate on and extend the content of the readings, developing conceptual ideas and applying
them to business situations. Articles and cases will deal with issues related to the strategic
management framework and business integration. Recognize that each article/case is simply a
record of an issue faced by business executives. It is not to be construed as portraying either
correct or incorrect behaviours. Instead, these articles/cases contain the facts, opinions and
prejudices upon which executive decisions have been made. As such, they will provide the basis
for in-depth examination of particular issues and concepts.
For this method of instruction to work effectively, you must have read and analysed all assigned
material before coming to class. A good rule of thumb is to spend as much time analysing and
preparing the material as you do reading it. Another good rule of thumb is to commit to spend
about six hours per week (outside class) preparing for this course.
CLASS PARTICIPATION:
Various discussion techniques will be used in class. For these techniques to be effective, you
must do the following:
ATTEND every class, arriving on time so that it can start promptly. Quiz will be giving randomly
and it will be for participation purpose. There will be no make up quiz if you miss the class.
PREPARE for every class so that you can contribute to the discussion and also appreciate what is
being said. Adequate preparation requires more than simply reading the assigned material.
Rather, you should have analyzed all the important issues, taken a position on them, and be
prepared to support them. If you have been unable to prepare adequately let me know before the
class. This will help you avoid being embarrassed inadvertently.
PARTICIPATE in every class. You are responsible for making sure that you do. Participation can
take many forms, including making a comment, questioning what has been said, and
synthesizing what has been said. If a fellow student makes a point you disagree with, do not let
it go unchallenged. Otherwise I will assume you concur, possibly to your peril. In order to
successfully complete the course, the followings are needed:
 Hard work
 Strong responsibilities for team work
3
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento



Creative and innovative ways of thinking
Positive attitude toward class participants
Courtesy: respect for others
Keep in mind that the amount of knowledge you gain from this course depends directly on your
level of preparation and participation: you cannot participate if you do not attend class, and you
cannot participate effectively if you have not prepared. Furthermore, the skills you develop
through participation are as valuable as the techniques you learn in the course.
Participation is evaluated on the basis of your readiness to become involved, the usefulness of
your contribution, and the depth/effectiveness of your argument. In addition, the consistency of
relevant contributions and degree of improvement over the semester will be noted. Please note
that I will utilize the entire scale in grading participation. As such, minimal participation will be
reflected in a minimal grade.
SEPCIAL NOTE ABOUT LAPTOP AND CELL PHONE REGULATION:
No electronic equipments of any kind are allowed in class. Using electronic devices will result
in the deduction of your overall points or being thrown out of the classroom. If you have
special need, you need to request the permission from Dr. Niu.
ASSIGMNMENTS AND CASES:
During the semester, there will be three team assignments. Assignments must be typed using MS
Word or equivalent software. Late submission will not be accepted. The three assignments are
based on Case Analysis #1, Dr.Niu will lead you to complete Case Analysis #1. In the end, once
you finished the three assignments, you literally completed 2/3 of Case Analysis #1.
The second case is Case Analysis #2. As part of each case, your team will be required to make a
presentation and submit a written report detailing its analysis and findings and recommendations.
Check the course outline for specific due dates.
The grading criteria for your cases include but not limited to the following:
Relevance -- does the comment bear on the subject at hand? Comments that do not link up with
what the discussion is focusing on can actually detract from the learning experience.
Causal Linkage -- are the logical antecedents or consequences of a particular argument traced
out? Comments that push the implications of a fact or idea as far as possible are generally
superior.
Responsiveness -- does the comment react in an important way to what someone else has said?
Analysis -- is the reasoning employed consistent and logical?
Evidence -- have data from the case, from personal experience, from general knowledge been
employed to support the assertions made?
4
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento
Importance -- does the contribution further our understanding of the issues at hand? Is a
connection made with other cases we have analyzed?
Clarity -- is the comment succinct and understandable? Does it stick to the subject or does it
wander?
The two case analyses will be completed on team base. Dr. Niu will assign teams for you. Team
peer evaluation will be in effect when assigning individual points of the three cases.
The following is an example of the calculation used for determining an individual’s grade:
1. First, the team’s case is graded
2. Next, the individuals’ participation (peer evaluation) grade is computed
3. The individual’s grade is then computed as follows:
Individual’s project grade = Team’s Grade X Individual’s Participation Grade
Sample Computations for an individual’s grade from Case #1:
1. The overall team’s project grade = 115 points (out of 150 points)
2. The individual’s participation grade given by other teammates = 80 %,
3. The individual’s project grade = 115 x 80 % = 92 points (out of 150 points)
The written report should be twelve point fonts, double-spaced, utilize the American
Psychological Association (APA) citation format, and generally should be 25 - 40 pages in
length (excluding exhibits, tables and appendices). A professional report that (a) demonstrates a
command and understanding of the issues involved in the case and their interrelationships, (b)
uses sound presentation logic and well thought through justifications, and (c) displays a liberal
use of appropriate and required graphs, charts and tables, is expected. The written assignments
must be submitted in class on the day they are due. Late submissions will not be accepted.
The class presentation must be of the highest professional standards. Use of appropriate
presentation mediums and captivating presentation style is essential. Your team’s presentation
will be graded based on the quality of (a) the content of the presentation, (b) the presentation
style and skill, and (c) the ability of the team to justify its position in the Q&A. Presentations
must be limited to 15 minutes. Presentations will be followed by 10 minutes of Q&A. When
presentation is required, please dress accordingly to show your professionalism.
MULTIPLE CHOICES EXAMS:
5
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento
The two Exams (exams) are “knowledge-acquisition” oriented. That is they are designed to test
your knowledge of basic strategic-management concepts and theories, certain key concepts or
analytical tools – in particular, those associated with the core concept of this class. The objective
is to ensure that all students “are on board” and are “staying up-to-date” with the instructor and
the rest of the class.
COMPREHENSIVE FINAL EXAMINATION:
The comprehensive exam will be based on multiple choices, essay, short answer, diagram, and
matching type questions. It is a comprehensive exam and designed to test your understanding of
the theoretical and conceptual foundations of the course as well as your ability to apply the
conceptual material to real-world situations.
ORGANIZATIONAL CITIZENSHIP BEHAVIOR:
Your individual grade on two applications and the integrated project will be based on the team
score and peer evaluations. Therefore, contributions must be useful and timely. Individuals will
engage in pro-social behaviors, and attendance at team meetings is strongly encouraged. See
attached grading explanation. As to teamwork, you have to respect each other.
ADA COMPLIANCE
THE COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION COMPLIES WITH THE
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT IN MAKING REASONABLE
ACCOMMODATION FOR QUALIFIED STUDENTS WITH DISABILITY.
IF YOU HAVE AN ESTABLISHED DISABILITY AS DEFINED IN THE AMERICANS
WITH DISABILITIES ACT AND WOULD LIKE TO REQUEST ACCOMMODATION,
PLEASE SEE ME AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. MY OFFICE HOURS AND OFFICE
NUMBER ARE SHOWN ON THIS SYLLABUS.
NOTE: UNIVERSITY POLICY REQUIRES THAT STUDENTS NOTIFY THEIR
INSTRUCTOR WITHIN THE FIRST WEEK OF CLASS THAT AN ACCOMMODATION
WILL BE NEEDED.
SCHOLASTIC DISHONESTY POLICY
The CSUS Code of Student Conduct and Discipline provides penalties for misconduct by
students, including academic dishonesty. Academic dishonesty includes cheating and
plagiarism.
6
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento
The term “cheating” includes, but is not limited to, (1) use of any unauthorized assistance
in taking quizzes, tests or examinations; (2) dependence upon the aid of sources beyond
those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems,
or carrying out other assignments; or (3) the acquisition, without permission, of tests or
other academic material belonging to a faculty member or staff of the university.
The term “Plagiarism” includes, but is not limited to, the use, by paragraph or direct
quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear
acknowledgment. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by
another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic
materials. (Source: Code of Conduct and Discipline at the Sac State University.)
If you engage in academic dishonesty and any behavioural misconduct related to this
class, you will receive a failing grade on the test or assignment, and a failing grade in
the course. In addition, the case will be referred to the Associate Dean of
Undergraduate Program, Dr. Seung Bach for appropriate disciplinary action. This
policy is intended to protect the honest students from unfair competition with
unscrupulous individuals who might attempt to gain an advantage through cheating.
7
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento
GM105 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS*
Date
Topic
Reading/Activity/Assignment
Jan 29 & 31
Course Introduction and Orientation
Exercise: Alaskan Gold Miner
Feb 5 & 7
Introduction of Strategic Management
Text: Chapters 1
Feb 12 & 14
The Strategic Management Process
Text: Chapter 2 & Financial Analysis
Feb 19 & 21
External Analysis
Feb 26 & 28
Internal Analysis
Text: Chapter 4
Assignment 1 Due on 26th
March 5 & 7
Competitive Advantage and Firm
Performance
Text: Chapters 5
Assignment 2 Due on 5th
Text: Chapter 3
Case #1 Orientation
March 12 & 14
Business Strategy
Exam 1 (30mins) on 12th
Text: Chapters 6 & 7
Case #2 Orientation on 14th
March 19 & 21
Corporate Strategy
Text: Chapters 8
March 26 & 28
Spring Break
Apr 2 & 4
Corporate Strategy
Text: Chapters 9
Apr 9 & 11
Implementation
Text: Chapter 11
Assignment 3 due on 9th
Apr 16 & 18
Work on Case #1
Case #1 Report due on 18th
Apr 23 & 25
Case #2 Q&A session on 23rd , participation
is required!
Exam 2 (30mins) on 25th
Apr 30 & May 2
Work on Case #2
In Class Student Group Meeting!
May 7 & 9
Work on Case #2
Final Exam on 16th
May 14 & 16
Case #2 presentation
May 21
Case Competition
Case #2 Report and Documents Due
* Schedule is subject to change.
** It will be 10 minutes for presentation and 5 minutes for Q&A. Total is 15 minutes for each team.
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento
8
Date:
Please rate your fellow team members (excluding yourself) with respect
to the five listed attributes. Please be honest, reasonable, and fair. Each
student can receive a maximum of 100%.
Team members’ names (excluding yourself).
Total (100%)
Group # / Name
Overall value to team (20%)
Section:
Met deadlines (20%)
Course:
Quality of work (20%)
Signature:
Attendance at team meetings (20%)
Your name:
Carried fair share of team assignments (20%)
Peer Evaluation Form (Case #1)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento
9
Date:
Please rate your fellow team members (excluding yourself) with respect
to the five listed attributes. Please be honest, reasonable, and fair. Each
student can receive a maximum of 100%.
Team members’ names (excluding yourself).
Total (100%)
Group # / Name
Overall value to team (20%)
Section:
Met deadlines (20%)
Course:
Quality of work (20%)
Signature:
Attendance at team meetings (20%)
Your name:
Carried fair share of team assignments (20%)
Peer Evaluation Form (Case #2)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento
10
Date:
Please rate your fellow team members (excluding yourself) with respect
to the five listed attributes. Please be honest, reasonable, and fair. Each
student can receive a maximum of 100%.
Team members’ names (excluding yourself).
Total (100%)
Group # / Name
Overall value to team (20%)
Section:
Met deadlines (20%)
Course:
Quality of work (20%)
Signature:
Attendance at team meetings (20%)
Your name:
Carried fair share of team assignments (20%)
Peer Evaluation Form (Case # )
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
GM 105 Strategic Management, Section 06
Dr. Niu Spring 2013
California State University, Sacramento
11