Fall 2004  Course Syllabus
COURSE TITLE:
International Entrepreneurship
COURSE NUMBER:
MBAG/H 698-01
INSTRUCTOR:
Dr. Anatoly V. ZHUPLEV Professor
Hilton 249 Tel: (310) 338-7414 Fax: (310) 338-3000
E-mail: azhuplev@lmu.edu
CLASSES:
Wednesday 4:25 – 7:05 pm Hill 107
OFFICE HOURS:
Monday: 11:00 AM -1:00 PM
Wednesday: 1:30-3:30 PM
Friday: 11 AM-1:00 PM, or by appointment
REQUIRED COURSE MATERIALS
1. US Small Business Administration Starting Your Business
http://www.sba.gov/starting_business/index.html
2. SBA Guide to Exporting http://www.sba.gov/managing/marketing/exportguide.html
3. A Basic Guide to Exporting. A publication of the U.S. Department of Commerce in Cooperation
with Unz & Co., Inc. 1998 edition. http://www.unzco.com/basicguide/toc.html
4. Handouts: will be provided.
COURSE STRUCTURE
The MBAG/H 698 focuses on international small business venture initiation process and seeks to develop
your knowledge and skills in three key components of international entrepreneurship:
 Initiating entrepreneurial venture
 Managing basic international business transactions and
 Dealing in multicultural business environments.
GOALS:
Developing your knowledge and skills in the following areas:
1. The key issues, concepts, and steps in the entrepreneurship.
2. The major sources of information and assistance on domestic and international entrepreneurship, with a
focus on electronic databases.
3. The major characteristics of the business environment and the cross-cultural issues in conducting
business overseas.
4. Conducting a feasibility study resulting in a business plan for an international small business venture.
Revised: August 29, 2004
MBAG/H 698-01 International Entrepreneurship Fall 2004 Instructor: Anatoly Zhuplev
INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES
The following techniques will be used throughout the course: lectures, individual and group assignments and
class presentations, experiential exercises, videos, case analysis and presentations, and others. Since the
subject information is disseminated throughout numerous sources, your individual and group contribution
and cooperation is crucial and greatly appreciated. An international business/marketing plan will become the
major focus and outcome of our course. Based on a business idea and a country of your choice, this project
will enable you to apply and test your academic and practical knowledge, as well as the ability to approach
contemporary international entrepreneurship issues.
GRADING
Final grades will be based on actual points accumulated individually by each student throughout the course.
Participation in the group activities will be graded individually – an evaluation form will be provided.
Grading Scale
Source: Undergraduate Bulletin
A Superior
C+ Above average
A- Outstanding
C Average
B+ Very good
C- Below average
B Good
D Poor
B- Better than average
F Failure
(Letter Grade = % of Total Points)
A (4.0) = 100-90%
A- (3.7) = 88-89%
B+ (3.3) = 85-87%
B (3.0) = 80-84%
B- (2.7) = 78-79%
C+ (2.3) = 75-77%
C (2.0) = 70-74%
C- (1.7) = 68-69%
D (1.0) = 58-67%
F (0.0) < 58%
CLASS SESSIONS
The class will be based on systematic self-learning, exchange of knowledge and attitudes, cooperation, and
use of a variety of ways of learning to reach educational goals and facilitate future professional and business
goals accomplishment through the combination of an academic framework, experiential, and practical
sources. Entrepreneurship, particularly international entrepreneurship, means uncertainty, proactive thinking
and action. Therefore, those who cannot handle uncertainty, make their own judgements, decisions, and use
creativity should not take this course. With that, I see my role in the class as a consultant, facilitator, and
catalyst, rather than just a disseminator of information. Usually, class will begin with a topic overview,
proceed with a student individual/group case presentation, followed by class discussion, watching and
discussing a video. Sometimes, class will go in a different direction. Randomly, without preliminary
notification, I will test your home preparation (cases, reading, etc.) by conducting pop quizzes or asking you
to formulate an opinion/decision based on your home reading. You will be responsible for preparing and
conducting presentations, class discussions etc., putting forth all appropriate efforts to make the class efficient
and creative.
EXAMS
Exams are not cumulative and will include objective (True/False) questions, essays, and case analysis. They
will be based on all materials incorporated in the assigned readings, class discussions, cases, written
assignments, videos, and other activities taking place throughout the course. A sample of exam questions will
be provided approximately one week prior to an exam.
INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS/MARKETING PLAN
Goal: developing international entrepreneurial knowledge and skills through conducting a feasibility study of
an international business venture start-up as it relates to the country and the product/service chosen. An
International Business/Marketing Plan is a comprehensive study, completed in groups or individually, on the
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MBAG/H 698-01 International Entrepreneurship Fall 2004 Instructor: Anatoly Zhuplev
basis of the country and product (service) chosen for an international small business venture. The business
plan covers a broad set of IntEnt issues pertaining to an international business venture startup, while the
marketing plan is more narrowly focused on marketing for a small business venture expanding or starting up
internationally. In our course, “international” means a business originating in the U.S. or a third country,
connected with the U.S., and oriented towards other country(ies).The general structure and detailed
recommendations on how to write the business plan will be provided. Please use this material as your general
guidelines. It will also be used to grade your report.
If you have your own unique international small business venture ideas and want to explore them in your
feasibility study, let me know as early as possible for consultations. Your study can be customized according
to your specific educational, business, or career needs.
CASE PRESENTATION
Goal: developing your skills in analyzing international entrepreneurship issues, finding effective
solutions, and communicating them, in a professional manner, to the class. Groups of 2 students each are
formed at the students' discretion. Each group picks up one of the 8 mini-cases assigned in the syllabus.
Prior to the scheduled class, the group, acting as an international entreprteneurship consulting firm,
analyzes the case, prepares solutions/recommendations, and runs a 15-20 minute class discussion of this
case. Generically, your case analysis should cover three major elements: (1) the case (major events and
players, their background) and a company profile; (2) the business environment as relates to the industry
covered by the case, and (3) the country environment in which the case takes place. After having the class
discuss the case, the group presents and explains its own solutions/recommendations.
 Since I would like to provide my input/feedback and contribute to your success I kindly request
you to discuss your case presentation format with me at least a week before the date of
presentation. Failure to do so will indicate a lack of proactiveness and result in reduction of your
grade.
 A copy of a written handout (a PPP outline, 6 slides per page) summarizing your major points is
required (15 copies overall).
Evaluation criteria for the case presentation:




Quality of the case analysis, conclusions and recommendations: the depth, arguments, amount of
effort put in the studying the issues, additional sources and experiences presented.
Quality of presentation: informative, dynamic, professionally sound, handouts (1-2 pages).
Completeness: additional sources, and relevant information used. Usually, the following components
should be included: industry analysis, country analysis, company background, and the key players
involved in the case.
Relevance of theoretical and methodological approaches used from the course materials.
CLASS ATTENDANCE
Attendance in class is important because, in addition to reading the course materials, you will learn a
great deal from videos, discussions, and other activities in class. Moreover, your attendance and
participation will contribute to the success of other students. Missing one class results in losing 7% of
your attendance grade, 2 classes – 14%, 3 or more classes (21 % of more of the total) will mean a total
loss of your attendance grade points.
PERSONAL CONTRIBUTION
Your participation and degree of involvement will greatly influence what you actually gain from this course.
It will be equally important for your final grade. Your personal attitude toward participation can also have a
major impact on the success of the whole course, including that of the other individuals in the class.
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MBAG/H 698-01 International Entrepreneurship Fall 2004 Instructor: Anatoly Zhuplev
Evaluation criteria:
 Completing your home and class assignments.
 Preparedness and active involvement in class discussions with constructive contributions.
 Contributing your own experience and other interesting outside experiences from various sources.
Assignments
Due Dates
Allocation, %
EXAMS
 Midterm
 Final
October 20
December 15
35%
15
20
INT’L BUSINESS/MARKETING PLAN
 Paper: about 40 pages
 Presentation
December 1
December 8
40%
30
10
CASE PRESENTATION: (a group of 2: 1 case per group)
According to the class schedule
5%
CLASS ATTENDANCE (15 class sessions)
Over the course
10%
PERSONAL CONTRIBUTION
(assignments, class participation, contribution)
Over the course
10%
100%
TOTAL
BASIC POLICIES
 Assignments. You are expected to have completed (read and/or written) your home assignments before
the class starts, according to the syllabus or assignment specification. Late completion will be penalized
by the grade received ( .3 points per two working days overdue).
 Broken Obligations. If you are scheduled for class activities and cannot attend, whatever the reason,
please do your best to arrange another student in the class to substitute for you. Notify the instructor in
advance of this change.
 Conflicting Schedules. The "first come - first served" principle will be used in case of conflicting
schedules.
 Possible Changes. Expect some changes to occur as a result of developing opportunities and efforts to
improve the course, e.g., guest speakers, new publications, etc.
 Communication. Obviously, entrepreneurship means high uncertainty and requires intensive
communication. If you are not certain or have questions, don't hesitate to contact the instructor in a
proactive fasshion. Problems have to be discussed and resolved timely, not when it is too late.
 Missed Midterm Exams. A make up midterm exam will be allowed only under extraordinary
circumstances (e.g. medical illness or death in the family - student must provide a proper supporting
document) during the finals week.
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MBAG/H 698-01 International Entrepreneurship Fall 2004 Instructor: Anatoly Zhuplev
Class Schedule and Assignments
Date Session
Topic/Home Assignment/Class Activities
Sep.
1
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 Introduction and Administrative Matters: Syllabus, Course Format, Exams, Grading Policies, Interaction and
Communication, Individual Adjustments. Forming Project Groups.
 LMU Library Resources for International Entrepreneurship: presentation by Glenn Johnson-Grau.
 Class will meet at LMU Library, Room 204.
 Key Concepts, Issues and Factors of Successful Entrepreneurship.
Home Assignment SBA: Starting Your Business http://www.sba.gov/starting_business/index.html
Read the whole section “Are you ready?” in the Startup Basics section (the Startup Topics box) including four
recommended SBA downloads. Be ready to present and discuss your findings and thoughts in class
Video: Entrepreneurs (segments: Gillette, Monopoly): What factors made these business ventures a success?
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2
Start-Up Basics
Home Assignment SBA: Starting Your Business http://www.sba.gov/starting_business/index.html
 Read: Finding a Niche, Buying a Business, Buying a Franchise, Protecting Your Ideas, and Product Basics.
 Glance through the Start-Up Guide, and go through the Checklist For Starting a Business. This exercise will give
you a big picture of a small business venture start-up process and related issues. Later, we will study some of these
issues in more detail.
 Project Group Meeting #1. Agenda: Product and Country Alternatives, Business Strategies.
Look through sample business plans most appealing to you at http://www.bplan.com/samples/sba.cfm
Select 3 alternative topics and look for good teammates for the term project.
Video: Entrepreneurs (segments: MTV, Famous Amos): What factors made these business ventures a success?
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3
 Developing a Business Plan: the Structure, Requirements, Pitfalls, and International Implications.
Home Assignment SBA: Starting Your Business http://www.sba.gov/starting_business/index.html
 Read: Business Plan Basics, Writing Business Plan, and Using Business Plan. Please read this chapter carefully: it
is the heart of entrepreneurship.
 Handout A: Read, find weaknesses existing in this business plan and learn for yourself. Bring a 1-page written
summary of your home analysis in a memo format. Be ready to discuss the case and defend your critical
judgement in class. Don’t repeat the same mistakes in developing your own business plan!
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 Legal Issues.
Home Assignment: SBA: Starting Your Business http://www.sba.gov/starting_business/index.html
 Read: Forms of Ownership, Licenses and Permits, and Business Laws (in this section you can find a wealth of
useful business law information). Also look at the Plain English Guides on the left hand side of the
http://www.businesslaw.gov/index.htm web site for specifics on legal aspects of doing business.
 Handout B: Essay. Learn lessons in the small business start-up planning, management, and financing.
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 Financing.
Home Assignment: SBA: Starting Your Business http://www.sba.gov/starting_business/index.html
 Read: Financial Basics, Estimating Costs, Finding Capital, Personal vs. Business, Applying for a Loan, Small
Business Lenders, and Understanding Financial Statements.
 Case 1: Give your answers to questions 1-3 (verbal).
 Handout C: Essay: Learn lessons in business angel financing.
 Project Meeting #2. Agenda: Finalizing business ideas, strategies, and the most important details.
Video: Growing Global: A Business of Details
Oct.
6
6
 International Business Environment: Opportunities, Barriers, and Strategic Entry Implications.
Home Assignment: SBA Guide to Exporting http://www.sba.gov/oit/info/Guide-To-Exporting/
 Ch. 1. Making the Export Decision. International Business Plan.
 Ch. 2. Identifying International Markets. Ch. 3. Foreign Market Entry.
 Case 2.
Video: Going International (Part 2).
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MBAG/H 698-01 International Entrepreneurship Fall 2004 Instructor: Anatoly Zhuplev
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Midterm Exam 2: Covers sessions 1-6.
Bring a SCANTRON (Form 882), a pen, and a #2 pencil. No Blue Book is needed.
Video: Made in America. Learn about U.S. companies’ success stories in Japan.
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 International Market Research and Marketing.
Home Assignment: A Basic Guide to Exporting http://www.unzco.com/basicguide/toc.html
 Ch. 2. Developing a Market Plan.
 Case 3.
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Exporting: Planning, Product Preparation; Export of Services; Documentation, Shipping and Logistics
Home Assignment: SBA Guide to Exporting http://www.sba.gov/oit/info/Guide-To-Exporting/
 Ch. 4. Export Transaction. Ch. 6. Transporting Goods Internationally.
 Case 4.
Nov..
3
10
 International Legal Considerations.
 Methods of Payment and Financial Transactions.
Home Assignment: A Basic Guide to Exporting http://www.unzco.com/basicguide/toc.html
 Ch. 9. International legal Considerations.
 Ch. 12. Methods of Payment.
 Case 5.
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 International Business Venturing: China.
Home Assignment: Country Commercial Guide: China.
Go to LMU Library => click on the STAT-USA database => click on GLOBUS & NTDB => click on “Country
Commercial Guides” => click on China.
 Case 6.
Video: Doing Business in China: Building the Relationships.
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 International Business Venturing: Mexico.
Home Assignment: Country Commercial Guide: Mexico.
Video: Working with Americans.
Due date to submit a draft of your international business/marketing plan for review and feedback.
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 International Business Venturing: Russia.
Home Assignment: Country Commercial Guide: Russia.
 Case: 7.
Project Meeting #4. Agenda: Finalizing the project. Questions, consultations.
Video: To Russia with Fries
Dec.
1
14
 International Business Venturing: the European Union.
Home Assignment: Country Commercial Guide: European Union.
 Case 8.
 International business/marketing plan is due.
 Peer evaluation is due.
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15
Business plan Presentations:
Groups 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Please choose your presentation spot on a first come, first served basis.
Dec 15
16
FINAL EXAM Covers sessions 8-14. Time allocation: 2 hours.
Bring a SCANTRON (Form 882), a pen, and a #2 pencil. No Blue Book is needed.
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MBAG/H 698-01 International Entrepreneurship Fall 2004 Instructor: Anatoly Zhuplev
Peer Evaluation Form (Confidential)
Please use this form to evaluate the contribution of each member of your group, including yourself, to the project. It
is designed to measure each team member's level of participation in the group project.
PROJECT TOPIC _________________________________ DATE OF PRESENTATION ______
To evaluate every group member, simply divide 100 points (roundup your numbers) between the group members in
proportion to their actual contribution to the group project. For example, your assessment of 5 members of your
group might be as follows: 20, 25, 25, 10, and 20; for a 6-member group it might be: 15, 20, 25, 10, 15, and 15; etc.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
1. Participation in team and business meetings
2. Willingness to accept assigned/selectedtasks, and their timely completion
3. Initiative, resourcefulness, innovation
4. Quality of work
5. Contribution to overall effort
6. Maturity, attitude, professional conduct
7. Overall cooperation, truly a team member
Group Members’ Names
Please include yours
Group
Members’
Scores
Please
round-up
Comments, If Any
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Total=100


Student can be fired from the group project if his/her individual project grade is less than 60 points.
Individual project grade is calculated as the group grade multiplied by an individual peer evaluation coefficient
(calculated by the instructor).
Examples:
 the group’s papergrade is 86; student’s individual peer evaluation score is 0.95; student’s individual grade is: 86*.95=82.
 the group’s papergrade is 86; student’s individual peer evaluation score is 1.05; student’s individual grade is: 86*1.05=90.

Please fold this form, give it to me. If you prefer, bring it to my office, or slip it under the door in my office.
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Please fill out and
return by Dec. 1
MBAG/H 698-01 International Entrepreneurship Fall 2004 Instructor: Anatoly Zhuplev
Student Information List (Confidential)
NAME _______________________________________
Please print!
Last
__________________________________________
First
Name you would like instructor to call you in class
____________________________________________________
Contact Information: Phone: ________________
FAX: __________________ e-mail: ________________________
Some facts about yourself:
Your expectations of this course and instructor:
Your personal strengths that you could contribute to class:
Your expectations of others' contributions to class:
Your proposals on change in the format of the course:
Please fill out and
return by Sep 8.
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