Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject students should be familiar with the logic underlying various types of strategy (vertical and horizontal integration, diversification and multinational expansion) and the organisational changes made necessary by changes in strategy; be able to critically assess managerial strategies for firm growth; be able to determine the appropriate form of business organisation, given the nature of the environment faced by a firm and the strategy adopted to survive and grow in that environment; have developed analytical, written and oral skills by writing a short essay, preparing and presenting a syndicate report, and completing a research report.
Synopsis This subject focuses on the differing growth strategies which have been adopted by firms and the internal organisational adjustments required as a result of growth. A strong central theme is found in the work of A D Chandler and writers of the `Chandler school', especially Rumelt and Channon. Attention will be given to the twentieth century growth of diversified firms; the adoption of the multi-divisional structure in the US and its (delayed and partial) adoption in Europe; the emergence of conglomerates and multinationals. A range of recent work on strategy formulation and implementation, organisation and structure, the strategy-structure-performance link, and the strategy-structure of multinationals, will be discussed. The subject should help to integrate material taught in a range of MBA courses.
Assessment Short essay (1500 words): 15% + Syndicate report (2000 words): 35% + Research report (3500 words): 50%