Turku University of Applied Sciences
Faculty of Business, ICT and Life Sciences
PRE-ASSIGNMENT 2014
Admission to the Master’s Degree Programme in International Business
Management
PRE-ASSIGNMENT
The pre-assignment must be returned together with the application documents by 31 July 2014
at 4.15 p.m. Finnish time (+2 GMT).The pre-assignment must be completed successfully in order
to qualify for admission.
1)
PART 1
Part 1 assignment is divided into two separate assignments (A and B). With the assignment A,
your capabilities in critical thinking and analysis are evaluated. You are encouraged to apply the
theoretical findings of the article in relation to your own practical experience on the topic.
Assignment B relates to the interactive knowledge creation in teams which is an important part
of the studies in the programme.
A. Read the article “Business model innovation in entrepreneurship”.
Consider and evaluate critically the topics presented in this article and discuss the potential
connections between business model design, business strategy and firm performance. Does an
accurate business modelling design process make a new venture more robust or more
successful? Should the business model be fixed or should it be adjusted in parallel to the firm’s
life cycle evolution ?
Write a 3-5 page essay. Line spacing 1.5, text size 12 pt, use the assignment template.
B. Read the arcticle “Avoiding a “me” versus “we” dilemma: Using performance
management to turn teams into a source of competitive advantage.”
Master-level studies are challenging, both in relation to the contents of the programme and to
managing time. In order to complete the studies successfully, you need to be committed to
individual work as well be able to work in teams. Based on the findings in the article, analyse
the use of teams in relation to the performance and success of a company. Describe then also
your own capabilities in working as a member of a team. Further, if you would be the leader of
a team, how would you make sure the team accomplishes the best possible results?
Write a 3-5 page essay. Line spacing 1.5, text size 12 pt, use the assignment template.
2)
PART 2: MASTER’S THESIS AS A RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
The Master’s thesis plays an important role in the Master programmes. It is worth 30 ECTS,
corresponding 800 hours work. The thesis is a demanding research and development project
carried out on commission from your employer or another organisation.
Reflect in an essay the development needs in your work community or your background
organisation and give a preliminary description of the idea and topic of your thesis. In case you
are not employed at the moment, you may process your contemplation in relation to your
earlier work community or in relation to the goals of your own professional expertise.
Write a 3-5 page essay. Line spacing 1.5, text size 12 pt, use the assignment template.